:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49178989/20160325_HOF_JoanLunden_Sponsor--a942804adb09dc8576caec79d42e64dc.0.0.jpg)
John Cena will not be wrestling at WrestleMania 32, but the hustle doesn't stop, and the Champ is co-hosting segments of NBC's Today Show all week - and promoting WWE's biggest show of the year the whole time.
This morning, he revealed one of the last remaining pieces of the puzzle for Sat., April 2's Hall of Fame induction ceremony, when he announced television personality and breast cancer survivor Joan Lunden will receive the second annual Warrior Award.
Originally mentioned by the Ultimate Warrior in his induction speech in 2014 as a way to honor behind-the-scenes personnel who make WWE shows happen, the honor has been transformed by the company into a way to celebrate someone fighting a real-life challenge outside of the wrestling ring (and, so far, has been tied into the company's cancer research fund-raising and public relations efforts).
Less than two years ago, Lunden was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, and has chronicled her treatment via chemotherapy, surgery and radiation for the public as a way to educate and inspire others. You can follow her journey on Today, in her latest book "Had I Known: A Memoir of Survival" or on her website JoanLunden.com.
She told WWE.com:
It is truly humbling to be honored by WWE and receive this year's Warrior Award at the 2016 WWE Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
After being diagnosed with cancer, my first thought was to survive, but soon after, I changed my focus from my cancer to the fight against cancer and my life took on a whole new purpose. WWE has welcomed me into their family, offering me warmth and support, as have so many of the WWE fans from around the world. It is a privilege to receive this honor.
Lunden joins Connor Michalek, celebrated posthumously last year, as the only recipients of the Warrior Award, and Sting, the Godfather, Fabulous Freebirds, Big Bossman, Jackie & Stan Hansen as honorees at the 2016 Hall of Fame induction ceremony, taking place Saturday night in Dallas and broadcast live on WWE Network.