The former U.S. Champion embraces his veteran status and talks future opportunities
Summary
– Carlito acknowledges his prime is behind him and embraces his elder statesman role
– Reflects on John Cena’s retirement and their history dating back to his WWE debut
– Says he’d be open to appearing in TNA to work with his family
Carlito is back in WWE and fully embracing the veteran mentor role, even if he jokes about being introduced as “this guy.” During WrestleMania 41 weekend, the former United States Champion spoke with Fightful’s Joel Pearl about his current place in wrestling, John Cena’s final WrestleMania, and the possibility of appearing in TNA.
“You can’t hold on to those days forever,” Carlito admitted. “My body’s already letting me know—whether I accept it or not—it’s happening.” Accepting his role as a locker room veteran, he’s found chemistry with Judgment Day and isn’t bothered by being the more experienced voice among younger talent. “We really are a family,” he said. “It works.”
Carlito also had high praise for Dominik Mysterio, calling him the “true great Mysterio” and saying the family should be proud of his rise.
When asked about John Cena’s retirement, Carlito didn’t hesitate to reflect on their shared history. “I whooped him,” he joked about his memorable WWE debut when he defeated Cena for the U.S. Title. “If he wants one more, I’ll whoop him again—he’s older now!”
As for his future, Carlito says he’s open to exploring the growing WWE-TNA partnership, especially if it means working with family. “I’ve never actually worked for TNA, but I’d love to. Who wouldn’t want to work with their brothers?”
Whether it’s laying back in his veteran role or stepping up for one last run, Carlito’s cool confidence hasn’t gone anywhere.
