WWE star John Cena grants wish No. 500 for Make-A-Wish Foundation

There's something about WWE superstar John Cena that makes him an endearing figure to children all over the world.

The 15-time World Champion may have a tough exterior when he's between the ropes, but away from the squared circle, he's granted the most wishes of any athlete or celebrity for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

During an appearance on "The Today Show" on Thursday, Cena surprised eight-year-old Rocco Lanzer, who was diagnosed with Leukemia back in January. Lanzer, who had met Cena earlier in the year when he was undergoing treatment, didn't get a chance to interact much with his hero when they first crossed paths, but that all changed on Thursday.

Cena provided Lanzer with some new gear on the show, including a baseball cap, wristbands, a T-shirt, and a replica WWE United States Championship belt. He also gave him tickets to watch "Monday Night Raw" next week live from the Barclays Center.

WWE has worked closely with Make-A-Wish since the 1980s, with nearly 50 performers granting over 6,000 wishes for the non-profit organization.

"I’ll continue to be involved with Make-A-Wish as long as they'll have me," said Cena, according to Today's Ree Hines. Lanzer represents Cena's 500th wish granted. Cena started working with the foundation in 2004.

Make-A-Wish CEO David Williams appreciates everything Cena has done for the organization.

"He's an entertainer, but he's a fighter," Williams said, according to the Associated Press. "Ultimately, these kids are fighting, just fighting a different kind of battle. That's what resonates so much with these kids."