David Otunga on NEXUS, John Cena, Theme Song, Commentary, Vince McMahon, One More Match?

Nov 18, 2025

David Otunga, a former WWE star and Harvard-educated lawyer, shares his journey from wrestling to commentary and acting. He reflects on the explosive debut of Nexus and whether John Cena's victory at SummerSlam derailed their momentum. Otunga reveals the origins of his coffee cup gimmick and discusses the challenges of announcing in WWE, including insights from Vince McMahon. He also opens up about his path to WWE, including his decision to leave law and the authenticity of his wrestling roots.

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ANECDOTE

A Thermos Turned Trademark

Otunga explains his coffee thermos became part of his lawyer gimmick after he brought it to a live promo and Vince loved it.
He deliberately used obnoxious sips and natural behavior to sell the character.

ANECDOTE

Last Match Memory With R-Truth

Otunga's last match (live event) was July 7, 2015 versus R-Truth; his son cried when R-Truth beat him, showing the blurred lines between real emotion and booking.
He used that moment to 'smart' his son about how matches are worked.

ADVICE

Try Roles That Fit Your Life

Try new roles to balance career and family; Otunga accepted announcing to spend more time at home during family hardship.
He cautions that excelling in a role can pigeonhole you creatively, so choose deliberately.

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David Otunga (@DavidOtunga) is a professional wrestler best known for his time in WWE. He sits down with Chris Van Vliet at West Coast Creative Studio in Hollywood, CA to discuss his journey from NXT Season 1 to the main roster, the Nexus' shock debut on Raw, whether John Cena winning at SummerSlam buried the group, winning the Tag Titles with Cena, how the coffee cup became a part of his character, getting to wrestle Bret Hart, the transition to announcing, what he is doing now, and more!

Subscribe to David Otunga's YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@ddotunga

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