John Cena's heel turn surprises WWE fans at Elimination Chamber

John Cena's unexpected heel turn at WWE Elimination Chamber 2025 surprised fans as he attacked Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. This marks Cena's first heel role in over 20 years, as he prepares to challenge Rhodes for his 17th championship at WrestleMania 41. Hints of a potential heel turn have surfaced over the years. In July 2024, Cena announced a retirement tour but previously discussed a planned heel turn from 2012 that never materialized due to concerns about his merchandise sales and charity work. Cena had even prepared a new entrance theme and attire for the turn, aiming to portray a character opposite to his usual persona. However, he ultimately decided against it, remaining a beloved babyface until now.