John Cena’s Shocking Heel Turn Rocks WWE Fans

In a move that stunned the wrestling world, WWE Superstar and Hollywood actor John Cena, who has spent over two decades as a beloved “babyface,” has officially turned “heel” (the bad guy) in what could be his final year of active wrestling.

The Unexpected Twist

Cena, a 13-time WWE Champion, announced that 2025 would be his last year wrestling full-time. Fans never expected the man who had been the face of WWE for so long to turn on his long-time persona in his final year, but that’s exactly what happened at WWE Elimination Chamber.

The Betrayal

During the event, Cena triumphed in a six-man cage match to determine who would face WWE Champion Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania. In a dramatic twist, after the match, Rhodes, who is considered WWE’s top “good guy,” came to congratulate Cena on his victory. But the moment turned sour when The Rock, currently a villain, interrupted. As tensions rose, Cena shockingly attacked Rhodes, marking his full heel turn. The Rock and rapper Travis Scott, who was a special guest, joined in the assault, leaving fans in disbelief.

A New Chapter for Cena

Cena debuted in WWE in 2002 and has been a fan favorite for the majority of his career, famously promoting positive messages like “Never Give Up.” His popularity with children has been a key part of his appeal, which is why WWE kept him as a “good guy” for so long. Cena also holds the Guinness World Record for granting the most wishes for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Memes and Reactions

As expected, the internet exploded with memes and reactions to Cena’s heel turn, with many questioning how this shift would affect his young fanbase. Fans also had fun with Cena’s infamous 2011 announcement about the death of Osama bin Laden and his curious habit of following nearly a million people on social media.

Parallels with Wrestling History

For long-time fans, Cena’s heel turn recalls Hulk Hogan’s infamous shift in 1996, when he moved from his “Hulkamania” persona to become “Hollywood” Hogan. Both Cena and The Rock, who are now teaming up as bad guys, also made successful transitions to Hollywood acting careers after leaving WWE full-time.

What’s Next?

After the attack on Rhodes, Cena appeared at the post-show press conference, dropping the mic without offering any explanation. Fans are now eagerly awaiting Cena’s reasoning behind his drastic change in character, and the internet will surely have plenty to say when he finally speaks out.