Earlier this year, Dave Bautista said he didn’t want to lump himself with other wrestlers who became actors like John Cena or Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Now Cena has responded to the statement.

MORE: Interview: Elijah Wood Talks About No Man of God, Psychonauts 2, and Kanye’s favorite albums

In a recent interview with Esquire, Cena was asked about the comments, which essentially boiled down to the fact that Bautista apparently didn’t want to work with either Cena or Johnson in films. Cena said that while he was sad to hear the comments, he understood the reason.

I thought a visual reference might help. I would prefer not to be lumped together. Nothing personal. 🤷🏻‍♂️ #DreamChaser https://t.co/JFHAaw053F pic.twitter.com/djKZBylIuT

– Tormented AF! #TeamPfizer Poor child on the hunt for dreams. (@DaveBautista) June 26, 2021

“I’m very sad about it because Dave Bautista is an incredibly talented actor,” said Cena. “He did an amazing job. But I think when someone makes a statement like that, I think it’s important to try to look at things from their perspective. Dave has worked so hard on his craft and is so dedicated to his characters. And really want to produce a work that gives it its own identity. I understand that 100 percent. “

MORE: Eddie Murphy stars alongside Jonah Hill in Netflix Comedy

Cena went on to say that Bautista was one of the nicest “and most generous guys you will ever meet,” and said the two of them had no beef at all. “He really just wants to be identified and recognized for his work. And I can’t blame him for that, “said Cena. “I applaud him for that. Being brave enough to say something like that allows him to go on alone, and I appreciate that. “