Former WWE head writer Vince Russo addressed this theory on the show. Russo expressed approval for the concept, noting it presented fewer creative risks than turning CM Punk heel.
That could very much work, Casa. I like that a lot better. But then we also have to look at how does John Cena wanna go out. So, they would have to do a heel turn and back to a babyface turn within the next year. But that route is much much safer than CM Punk. But would Cena have agreed to come back the last year to be a heel? I don’t know. I guess we’ll see.
Russo pointed out that such a storyline would depend on how Cena envisions the conclusion of his wrestling career, as it would require both a heel turn and eventual babyface return within approximately a year. He questioned whether Cena would have agreed to return for his recent appearances if a heel turn was part of the creative plan.
The storyline development comes after The Rock told Rhodes on SmackDown that he could help fulfill Rhodes’ and his family’s dreams in exchange for Rhodes becoming his champion and giving him his “soul.”
While some fans have speculated CM Punk might accept The Rock’s offer if Rhodes refuses, Russo indicated the Cena option would be a more conservative creative direction.