John Cena May Delay WWE Retirement for This Reason

John Cena’s planned retirement from WWE could be delayed following his dramatic heel turn at Elimination Chamber 2025. The 16-time World Champion shocked fans by aligning with The Rock after winning the Men’s Chamber match.

During an appearance on Sportskeeda Wrestling’s Legion of RAW, former WWE head writer Vince Russo suggested this character transformation might extend Cena’s in-ring career beyond his previously announced 2025 retirement date.

I don’t think it’s a swerve. But if he’s a heel, he could not retire, you know what I mean? I mean, that could be part of ‘I lied’ and this, that, and other things… I mean, that would give him a ton of heat.

Cena’s heel turn represents the most significant character shift of his 20-plus year WWE career. His alignment with The Rock creates a formidable alliance against Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes heading into WrestleMania 41.

Earlier in the same episode, Russo expressed concerns about The Rock’s limited availability affecting WWE’s programming quality. He specifically mentioned potential viewership issues for the company’s upcoming Netflix debut.

I’m telling you, man, they’re up you know what creek without a paddle when Rock goes back to Hollywood, man. Because they’re going to slide right back into that spot and Netflix is going to be all over them all over again.

Cena earned his championship opportunity by defeating CM Punk in the Elimination Chamber match. He subsequently betrayed Rhodes during their confrontation, cementing his shocking character change.

The Franchise Player had previously announced plans to retire from in-ring competition by the end of 2025 after completing his “farewell tour” throughout the year.

WWE has not announced when The Rock and John Cena will next appear on television following their alliance formation at Elimination Chamber.