John Cena’s Shocking Heel Turn: The Rock’s Influence, Cody Rhodes’ Battle, and WrestleMania 41’s Biggest Showdown
The WWE Universe was left in shock after Elimination Chamber 2025 when John Cena—one of WWE’s most beloved superstars for over two decades—turned heel in an unexpected alliance with The Rock and rapper Travis Scott. Fans never expected to see the 16-time world champion betray his legacy as a top babyface, but Cena’s brutal attack on Cody Rhodes changed everything.
With WrestleMania 41 set for April 19-20, 2025, the stage is now set for an epic battle: John Cena vs. Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship. If Cena wins, he will become a 17-time world champion, breaking Ric Flair’s legendary record.
This shocking betrayal and the influence of The Rock have sent ripples across the WWE landscape. And now, Cody Rhodes’ own family member—WWE legend Fred Ottman (a.k.a. Tugboat and Typhoon)—has weighed in on the drama.
Let’s break down the story, Cena’s turn to the dark side, The Rock’s involvement, and what this all means for WrestleMania 41.
John Cena’s Heel Turn: The Moment That Shocked the WWE Universe
For over 20 years, John Cena was the ultimate hero in WWE. From his “Hustle, Loyalty, and Respect” motto to his dedication to the fans, Cena was the face of the company. However, at Elimination Chamber 2025, everything changed.
Cena’s Betrayal at Elimination Chamber
On March 1, 2025, Cena competed in the Men’s Elimination Chamber Match to earn a shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship. The match was intense, featuring six of WWE’s best superstars battling inside the unforgiving steel structure.
Against all odds, Cena emerged victorious. The WWE Universe erupted in cheers as he celebrated his win—until the unthinkable happened.
Just moments after his victory, Cena turned on Cody Rhodes.
Without warning, Cena brutally attacked Rhodes, blindsiding him with a devastating Attitude Adjustment. He continued the assault, delivering multiple chair shots and a thunderous STF submission as the stunned crowd watched in silence.
The moment became even more surreal when The Rock and Travis Scott entered the ring, standing side by side with Cena. The once-beloved hero had officially joined forces with The Rock, embracing the dark side.
Why Did Cena Turn Heel?
Speculation ran wild following Cena’s shocking betrayal. Many believe that The Rock manipulated him, convincing him that his time as the company’s top star was far from over.
Cena has always chased greatness, and breaking Ric Flair’s 16-time world championship record has been a long-standing goal. With The Rock’s backing, Cena may have finally decided that winning at any cost is the only way to cement his legacy.
The Rock’s Influence: Is He the Mastermind Behind Cena’s Turn?
Since returning to WWE, The Rock has taken on a new persona—“The Final Boss.” Unlike his past runs, where he was a fan-favorite, this version of The Rock is ruthless, cunning, and power-hungry.
It’s clear that he sees Cody Rhodes as an obstacle standing in the way of his dominance over WWE. By convincing Cena to turn heel, The Rock may have just put the ultimate chess piece in place.
The Rock and Cena’s History
Cena and The Rock have a long and storied rivalry. They clashed in two WrestleMania main events (WrestleMania 28 and 29), with each winning once. Their real-life tension and competitive nature were well-documented, but now, in 2025, The Rock has seemingly recruited Cena as his ally.
With Travis Scott also in their corner, this trio has become a force to be reckoned with. But the biggest question remains—is Cena truly in control, or is he just another pawn in The Rock’s game?
Cody Rhodes: The Undisputed WWE Champion Faces His Biggest Challenge Yet
For Cody Rhodes, this betrayal is personal. Ever since winning the Undisputed WWE Championship, Cody has fought to carry on his father Dusty Rhodes’ legacy and prove that he belongs at the top.
His title reign has been legendary, but now he faces his toughest opponent yet—a heel John Cena, backed by The Rock.
Cody’s Reaction to Cena’s Betrayal
Cody Rhodes didn’t hold back after the attack. On SmackDown following Elimination Chamber, he called out Cena and The Rock, vowing to make them pay for their actions.
He delivered a passionate promo, saying:
“John Cena, I once respected you. I looked up to you. But now, you’re just a coward hiding behind The Rock. At WrestleMania 41, I’m not just fighting for this championship—I’m fighting for my family’s legacy.”
This emotional declaration has only intensified the hype surrounding their WrestleMania showdown.
Fred Ottman’s Take: A WWE Legend Speaks Out
Adding another layer to the drama, Cody Rhodes’ uncle, Fred Ottman, has spoken out about the situation.
In an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda Wrestling Senior Editor Bill Apter, Ottman cut a passionate promo on The Rock and Cena, accusing The Rock of corrupting Cena.
“The Rock calls himself ‘The Final Boss,’ but let me tell you something—he’s nothing but a snake. He convinced John Cena to throw away everything he stood for, just so he could hold onto power.”
Ottman’s comments reflect the widespread sentiment among fans—many believe The Rock has orchestrated this entire scenario to keep the spotlight on himself.
WrestleMania 41: What’s at Stake for Cena and Rhodes?
With their Undisputed WWE Championship match officially set for WrestleMania 41, the stakes couldn’t be higher:
- If John Cena wins, he becomes a 17-time world champion, surpassing Ric Flair’s record.
- If Cody Rhodes wins, he proves once and for all that he is WWE’s top guy and successfully overcomes one of the biggest betrayals of his career.
This match isn’t just about the title—it’s about legacy, betrayal, and redemption.
Potential Match Scenarios
- Cena Wins (With The Rock’s Help): The most likely scenario if WWE wants to establish Cena as the ultimate villain. The Rock interfering could cement Cena’s full transformation into a heel.
- Cody Rhodes Retains: If WWE wants to keep Cody as the face of the company, he could pull off a shocking victory, proving he can overcome Cena and The Rock.
- A Controversial Finish: WWE could leave the door open for a long-term feud by having a DQ finish or outside interference, keeping fans guessing.
Final Thoughts: The Most Anticipated WrestleMania Match in Years
John Cena’s heel turn has changed the landscape of WWE forever. With The Rock influencing his actions and Cody Rhodes standing in his way, WrestleMania 41 is shaping up to be an all-time classic.
Will Cena complete his transformation into a full-fledged villain and claim his record-breaking 17th world title? Or will Cody Rhodes defy the odds and solidify his reign as Undisputed WWE Champion?
One thing is for sure—April 19-20, 2025, will be a night WWE fans will never forget.
