Wrestler Cena to grant 500th wish to child

Associated Press

John Cena had long ago turned “Never give up” from his wrestling catchphrase into a motto for sick children who have to fight daily more than the WWE superstar ever has inside the ring.

On Monday, he will become the first celebrity to grant 500 wishes in Make-A-Wish Foundation history.

“I just drop everything,” Cena said. “If I can offer a fantastic experience, I’ll be first in line to do my part.”

Rocco Lanzer, an 8-year-old boy from Queens, New York diagnosed in January with leukemia, will get ringside seats for the weekly “Raw” television show, among other things.

Cena feted Rocco with swag on Thursday’s “Today” show and attended a party to celebrate all the wishes Friday in New York.

Rocco, who needs at least three years of treatment, appeared on a video package where he said Cena is “nice and strong and inspirational. He reminds kids to never give up.”

Cena surprised him on the set with a championship belt and tickets for Monday’s show. Cena granted his first wish in 2004, about two years after his WWE debut.