### John Cena Stuns WWE Supporters with Long-Awaited Villain Turn
It has finally occurred.
After over twenty years as WWE’s quintessential “hero”—or “babyface” in wrestling lingo—John Cena has officially transitioned to “heel,” welcoming the role of an antagonist.
Cena, a 13-time WWE Champion and Hollywood figure, is presently on his farewell tour in the world of professional wrestling. Last year, he announced that 2025 would be his final year of in-ring activity. While fans anticipated an emotional farewell, few could have foreseen that Cena would forsake his heroic image during this concluding phase.
That all shifted last night when Cena unexpectedly betrayed his longstanding ally, Cody Rhodes.
### The Online Response
The wrestling community exploded in surprise, enthusiasm, and, of course, memes. Social media outlets were inundated with reactions to Cena’s unforeseen turn, as fans expressed their astonishment and speculated on the implications for the journey to WrestleMania.
### The Moment of Cena’s Betrayal
At WWE *Elimination Chamber*, Cena triumphed in a challenging six-man cage match, gaining the opportunity to challenge WWE Champion Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania. Rhodes, the organization’s premier babyface and supposed friend of Cena, came out to congratulate him, setting the stage for a respectful confrontation.
However, events took a dramatic twist when The Rock—who has been entangled in a feud with Rhodes as a villain—interrupted. As Rhodes and The Rock exchanged fiery words, Cena stunned the audience by assaulting Rhodes. The attack escalated when The Rock and special guest Travis Scott joined in, leaving Rhodes reeling in the ring.
### A Career Characterized by Heroism
Cena’s turn to villainy is especially startling considering his long-established reputation as WWE’s ultimate role model. Since his debut in 2002, Cena has been a fan favorite, recognized for his “Never Give Up” motto and his strong bond with young supporters. Although he briefly portrayed a villain early in his career as the “Doctor of Thuganomics,” he has dedicated the past two decades to being WWE’s leading babyface.
His appeal among children was a key factor in WWE’s decision to never turn him heel before. Cena even holds the Guinness World Record for the most wishes granted through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Naturally, the internet quickly began to joke about how Cena’s younger fans might respond to his abrupt change.
### A Villain Turn for the Ages
For seasoned wrestling enthusiasts, Cena’s betrayal of Rhodes echoes Hulk Hogan’s notorious heel turn in 1996 when he abandoned his “Hulkamania” persona to become “Hollywood” Hogan. Interestingly, both Cena and The Rock—now teamed as villains—departed WWE at different times to pursue flourishing acting careers in Hollywood.
### What Lies Ahead for Cena?
Following *Elimination Chamber*, Cena made a brief appearance at the post-show press conference, where he simply dropped the mic and walked away without providing any clarification. Fans will now have to await an explanation for why he turned his back on Rhodes and the WWE Universe.
One thing is for certain: when Cena eventually speaks, the internet will certainly have much to say.