The conclusion of WWE’s recent Premium Live Event has sparked considerable debate, leading many to believe that John Cena’s heel turn may have been ill-advised. The final moments of March’s Elimination Chamber event were shocking: John Cena adopted a villainous persona for the first time in over two decades. As fans eagerly anticipated this new side of Cena during his farewell tour in 2025, expectations ran high for what a dynamic, antagonistic Cena would bring to the ring.
However, following the main event of WWE Backlash 2025, it appears that Cena’s heel turn may be doing more harm than good. In a controversial match against Randy Orton for the WWE Championship, an unexpected interference from R-Truth distracted Orton just long enough for Cena to deliver a low blow, culminating in a belt shot that allowed him to retain his title. The finish was met with disappointment from many fans who were hoping for a memorable conclusion to an already storied rivalry.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ysfczfgds2chttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ysfczfgds2c
For the second consecutive PLE, audiences witnessed a contentious and potentially unsatisfactory conclusion that left many feeling let down. Despite Cena’s efforts as a heel, the audience continues to react positively, leading some to speculate that WWE may already see this heel persona as a failed experiment.
A Disappointing Conclusion to Cena vs. Orton
Backlash’s Main Event Reflects John Cena’s Heel Status
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3nh8MOCIl8https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3nh8MOCIl8
When Cena proclaimed that 2025 would mark his final year with WWE, fans surged with excitement at the thought of potential dream matches and nostalgic rivalries. The prospect of a heel turn only heightened the anticipation, promising a refreshing take on Cena’s matches. Unfortunately, the expected payoff hasn’t materialized. The Backlash main event showcased a lack of chemistry that tarnished what could have been their ultimate match. The use of manipulation and underhanded tactics seemed misplaced, particularly for such a monumental showdown.
Cena’s Commitment to His Heel Role is Undermining Matches
Undermining His Legendary Status with Heel Tactics
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1a4aAD5b_whttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1a4aAD5b_w
While Cena’s commitment to his new heel persona demonstrates dedication, it has complicated his iconic legacy. After two decades of portraying WWE’s heroic figure, his transition to the dark side requires full immersion. Much like Superman’s portrayal as a villain in the “Injustice”comics, Cena must fully embrace this new role for it to resonate. However, the result has been a series of matches that, while technically sound, fail to live up to expectations due to their outcomes. His previous high-stakes clashes now feel diminished, leaving audiences feeling cheated rather than entertained.
Long-Term Consequences of Cena’s Heel Turn
Challenges Ahead for Cody Rhodes Post-WrestleMania 41
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOpA1gLKPs8https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOpA1gLKPs8
A particularly disappointing instance was the conclusion to Cena’s match against Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41, which is now considered one of the most contentious main events in the event’s history. Cena’s struggle to embrace his heel character was evident, resulting in a match filled with inconsistent pacing that frustrated fans and impacted the overall quality. Meanwhile, the conflict surrounding Cody’s hesitation to engage in underhanded tactics further muddled the match, leading to a perceived weakness in his character.
Critics highlighted that Cody’s reluctance to actively confront Cena undermined his portrayal as a strong babyface. This creative decision was a misstep, particularly compared to the intensity fans expected from a Cena match. If these misfires continue, they may have lasting consequences for both Cena and Rhodes, overshadowing their respective legacies.
Has WWE and The Rock Sabotaged Cena’s Farewell Tour?
Could a Babyface Cena Have Enhanced His Final Run?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_8R6cLlcpghttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_8R6cLlcpg
Cena deserves credit for his adaptability during this challenging heel run. Nevertheless, the creative missteps surrounding his character’s arc have resulted in a bitter disappointment, particularly considering that this is his final year in WWE. The absence of The Rock, who played an essential role in Cena’s current narrative direction, further complicates matters and leaves fans yearning for a more compelling storyline. The missed opportunities for compelling storytelling from a babyface perspective are particularly frustrating, especially as audiences continue to support Cena regardless of his actions.
The disconnect between the character Cena and the audience’s affection creates a narrative imbalance that could diminish the impact of his retirement tour. The sooner WWE acknowledges that fans are unlikely to embrace Cena as a villain, the sooner they might pivot towards a resurrection of his iconic babyface character to salvage his final appearances.
Is WWE Considering a Return to Cena’s Babyface Status?
Hints of a Potential Face Turn Post-Backlash
The LAST REAL CHAMPION has left the ring. #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/7rMdUzfZCp — WWE (@WWE) May 11, 2025
The powerful disconnect between Cena’s character and the audience was palpable in the aftermath of WWE Backlash 2025. Fans erupted in chants of “Thank you, Cena!”despite his underhanded victory over Randy Orton. Interestingly, as he ascended the ramp with an expression that betrayed his words, it divided fans and left onlookers speculating about a possible return to his babyface roots.
Cena’s ongoing feud with the audience hints at an internal conflict that may set the stage for a redemption arc. WWE’s potential maneuver to shift Cena back to a fan-favorite persona just months after his heel turn may suggest the organization’s recognition of the misalignment between Cena’s heel character and public perception. Understanding that fans had little inclination to boo him in these final months could prove to be a pivotal moment, as the company seeks to revitalize Cena’s retirement tour.