John Cena’s dramatic heel turn at WWE Elimination Chamber has sparked significant speculation about potential changes to his iconic ring presentation. Among the most discussed possibilities is whether the 16-time world champion will abandon his signature jorts and colorful merchandise for attire more befitting his new villainous persona.
The Rock addressed this specific question during the post-Elimination Chamber press conference, offering his perspective on Cena’s potential visual transformation.
That’s up to John. But I can tell you that jorts or no jorts, I think the thing I’m excited about is watching John perform this. Because if you think about it, he’s been our Babe Ruth, he’s been our Superman, he’s the guy you never ever thought would turn in this way, and he did. And it’s a big risk. And it’s ballsy to do something like that, and it’s gutsy. And he’s put a lot of thought into this, so I’m just really excited to see him, just performatively, what this version of John looks like. So jorts – maybe, I don’t know. Knowing John, he’ll probably stay the exact same. And he’ll probably wear what he wears.
This transformation carries additional intrigue due to Cena’s previous comments in interviews that he had actually prepared new entrance music and ring gear over a decade ago when WWE initially considered turning him heel. Those plans were ultimately shelved, and the prepared materials were never utilized on television.
The change in character presentation comes at a critical juncture as Cena heads toward a championship match against Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41 in April. This encounter follows his shocking alignment shift at Elimination Chamber that has fundamentally altered one of WWE’s most enduring babyface personas.
Fans won’t have to wait long to potentially see Cena’s new presentation, as he is advertised to appear on the March 17 episode of RAW in Brussels. WWE has also confirmed his appearances for subsequent Raw broadcasts on March 24 and 31 from Glasgow and London respectively, leading directly into WrestleMania weekend.
Whether Cena maintains his recognizable appearance or unveils a completely new look remains one of the most intriguing aspects of this late-career character evolution for one of WWE’s most decorated performers.