John Cena Announces He'll Host 'American Grit' Reality TV Series

The "face that runs the place" in WWE has been given the reins to another high-profile program. John Cena announced Wednesday that he'll be hosting a reality television series called American Grit, which is scheduled to air on Fox.

“The U.S Military is the epitome of resolve and dedication, which is why I am so excited to be a part of American Grit,” Cena said, per WWE.com. “This show will not only be a challenging and fierce competition, but it will give viewers a glimpse into the perseverance and training of the men and women of the Armed Forces.”   

Cena, 38, is currently taking time off WWE television to shoot the series. He lost the United States championship to Alberto Del Rio at last month's Hell in a Cell pay-per-view and has not made an appearance since. His tweet Wednesday merely confirmed rumors that had been out in the dirt sheets since before his hiatus.

“We are excited to be working with Fox and John Cena on a show that highlights the American spirit of competition, which is epitomized by Cena,” Brent Montgomery, the executive producer and CEO of Leftfield Entertainment, said to WWE.com. “With John as their inspiration, our contestants will show viewers what happens when you swing for the fences with focus, commitment and teamwork.”

Scott Keith of Blog of Doom reported the filming is supposed to run into early January, so a "surprise" Royal Rumble return would make the most sense for Cena. 

American Grit will have a 10-episode run during its first season and feature regular citizens running through a gauntlet of military-based drills. It's in keeping with Cena's brand, as he's long been the face of WWE's efforts with the troops. 

Here's to hoping the American Grit finale is aimed at the 16-person cast coming together and overthrowing whatever MexAmerica is.

Follow Tyler Conway (@tylerconway22) on Twitter.