WWE 2K25 players can now experience John Cena’s dramatic March 2025 character shift, as his “Unseen Seventeen” heel persona has been integrated into the game. This addition arrived via patch 1.13, which was released on May 31, 2025.
The update allows users to control a more ruthless version of Cena, complete with an all-new black titantron and an intense demeanor, highlighted by a scowl during his entrance. The game’s presentation mirrors his recent on-screen persona, including new crowd signs designed to reflect the audience’s divided response.
In-game commentary addresses this transformation directly. Michael Cole remarks that Cena has “turned his back on the fans” and “turned his back on WWE.” Conversely, Corey Graves offers praise for the development, stating, “It might be the best decision he’s ever made,” a comment that references how this change in character led to Cena capturing his historic 17th WWE World Championship.
The new John Cena '25 that was added with #WWE2K25 patch 1.13, does come with an updated entrance, commentary and crowd signs all related to his recent heel turn.
Here is his new full entrance.
– This content is placeholder and can look different in the final release. pic.twitter.com/VJ6IyWVyF6Advertising— 𝕾𝖙𝖆𝖙𝖚𝖘™ (@WhatsTheStatus) May 30, 2025
Cena’s move to a heel character stands as one of the most discussed WWE storylines of 2025, eliciting mixed reactions from the audience and the gaming community, with some lauding the bold direction while others find its execution wanting. It is currently unknown if Cena will transition back to a fan-favorite role before his eventual retirement from in-ring competition.
READ MORE: AEW Sought to Retire Goldberg from the Ring Before WWE Could
