During a recent Q&A session for Fightful Select, Sean Ross Sapp revealed how WWE talent reacted to Cena’s unexpected alliance with The Rock after two decades as WWE’s top babyface.
A lot of pleasant shock. This was the type of thing that even people on the roster had thought was possible, but just didn’t think would happen. There was a lot of excitement on the roster, because they knew it would lead to more eyes on the show.
The dramatic character shift marks a historic moment in professional wrestling, with Cena officially earning a Guinness World Record for the longest WWE babyface run before turning heel. His good-guy persona lasted from 2004 until March 1, 2025.
Cena’s new villainous role positions him for his upcoming challenge against Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 41. The sudden change has already drawn criticism from fans calling out Cena’s apparent hypocrisy after years of promoting Hustle, Loyalty, and Respect.
WWE talent reportedly view the surprising development as significant for business, highlighting how unexpected the turn was even to those working closely with both Cena and The Rock.
With Cena currently off WWE programming until his scheduled return on the March 17 episode of RAW in Brussels, anticipation continues building for his first appearance as a heel in nearly 21 years.