Retired WWE superstar John Cena has joined millions across the globe in showing support for ‘Punch,’ the abandoned baby monkey whose heartbreaking story has captured the internet’s attention.
Punch, a young Japanese macaque at the Ichikawa City Zoo in Japan, became a viral sensation after videos surfaced showing him clinging to a plush orangutan toy given to him as a substitute for his mother.
The infant monkey was reportedly abandoned early in life and struggled to form a maternal bond — an unusual occurrence among macaques, known for their strong mother-infant relationships.
The story that touched millions
During his first months, Punch found himself isolated within his enclosure. With limited social bonding from fellow macaques, he leaned on the companionship of his human caretakers and the stuffed orangutan, which he carries while sleeping and playing.
The touching visuals of the tiny primate hugging his plush companion sparked an emotional wave online, with users expressing sympathy and sending messages of love from around the world.
The soft toy, now symbolic of resilience and comfort, became central to Punch the monkey’s viral rise.
Signs of hope at Ichikawa City Zoo
While his early months were marked by loneliness, recent footage from the zoo paints a more hopeful picture. Punch has gradually begun integrating with other monkeys in the enclosure.
Observers have noted him engaging in grooming behavior — a key aspect of macaque social interaction — signaling promising progress in his social development.
Zoo officials continue to monitor his adjustment, ensuring he receives both care and opportunities to bond naturally with his own kind.
John Cena joins the movement
Amid the global outpouring of support, John Cena amplified Punch’s story by sharing the young monkey’s image on his official Instagram account. In the post, Punch is seen holding his plush orangutan — the very symbol that melted hearts worldwide.
John Cena’s gesture introduced the story to an even broader audience, bringing renewed attention to the baby macaque’s journey from abandonment to gradual recovery.
As Punch the monkey continues to adapt and build connections within his group, the overwhelming public response — now backed by one of WWE’s biggest stars — highlights the powerful bond between humans and animals, even in the digital age.