John Cena has stepped into a leading role in an upcoming action-thriller directed by Scott Waugh, replacing Sylvester Stallone and joining Jackie Chan as a co-star. The project, currently carrying the working title Project X, pairs Cena with Chan in a high-stakes story that blends intense action with a globe-trotting security premise.
According to reports, the film centers on two men — a private security contractor and a former U.S. Marine — who must defend a Chinese-operated private oil refinery from a coordinated attack and attempted theft of its resources. The premise sets the stage for a fast-paced thriller that combines tactical combat, high-adrenaline sequences, and the cross-cultural stakes of protecting a critical industrial asset.
Scott Waugh, who previously directed films such as Need for Speed and 6 Below: Miracle on the Mountain, is returning to action-oriented material. Waugh’s background in combining practical stunts and kinetic camera work makes him a natural fit for a project that demands both large-scale action set pieces and grounded, character-driven conflict. The screenplay for Project X was penned by Arash Amel, known for his previous work on screenplays like The Titan (2018).
John Cena, who transitioned from a successful career in professional wrestling to acting, has been building a diverse filmography, including recent comedy and action roles. His involvement in Project X follows continued expansion into Hollywood features and suggests a further move toward star-driven action cinema. Jackie Chan’s participation brings veteran martial arts expertise and decades of experience in stunt-based filmmaking. Chan’s established reputation for blending physical comedy with inventive fight choreography is likely to influence the film’s action style and tone.
The production is being co-produced by Jackie Chan alongside Hans Canosa, Esmond Ren, and Joe Tam. Their combined involvement indicates an international collaboration that may emphasize the film’s cross-border setting and characters. With private security, military backgrounds, and an international industrial target at its core, the narrative offers opportunities for tense tactical sequences, strategic confrontations, and character moments that explore loyalty and duty under pressure.
While the project is still in early stages and working under its provisional title, details to date highlight a cast and creative team poised to deliver a mainstream action thriller with international appeal. The casting change — with Cena stepping into the role initially linked to Sylvester Stallone — reflects common shifts during pre-production, and suggests the filmmakers are assembling a roster capable of blending physical presence with screen charisma.
Fans of both stars can expect different strengths from each performer: Cena brings contemporary action-star momentum and an imposing screen presence shaped by athleticism and comedic timing, while Chan contributes a legacy of inventive stunt work and a deep history in martial arts cinema. Together, their collaboration under Scott Waugh’s direction could result in a film that balances blockbuster energy with hand-to-hand action and suspenseful security-focused drama.
As Project X develops, further announcements will likely clarify casting, production timelines, and release plans. For now, the combination of John Cena, Jackie Chan, Scott Waugh, and screenwriter Arash Amel positions the film as a notable upcoming entry in the action-thriller genre, promising dynamic sequences and an international-tinged storyline centered on protecting vital resources from violent threat.