WWE Hall of Famer JBL has weighed in on the ongoing debate about John Cena’s eventual retirement, challenging Jim Cornette’s prediction that Cena, the undefeated 17-time world champion and current WWE champion, will retire as a heel. During the recent episode of “Something to Fight,” JBL argued that fans’ appreciation for Cena will ultimately overshadow any villainous persona he adopts.
JBL highlighted his disagreement with Cornette’s view that Cena will retire as a heel due to a lack of fan support after alienating them.
“I don’t see it. No. No. And I love Corney, but I don’t agree with it,” JBL stated.
He believes that no matter how Cena’s character evolves leading up to retirement, the emotional significance of his final appearances will transform him into a beloved figure. For JBL, the real question isn’t if Cena will turn face before retiring, but when.
“He wants to come back as a face very badly, I think when he says it all, if he comes out as a babyface the next night, the place will be hooked. They’ll thank him,” he said.
To illustrate his point, JBL painted a vivid picture: even if Cena’s last match ends with him as a heel, his next appearance will automatically be met with warmth and cheers because fans will be grateful for his career.
“If he keeps his heel persona and his last match is on Sunday, he’ll show up the next night on Monday Night Raw, and knowing it’s the last time they’ll see him, the crowd will cheer him on for everything he’s done,” JBL explained.
Having been part of WWE during Cena’s rise to stardom, JBL witnessed the backlash Cena initially faced from fans who felt he was pushed too much. Today, despite Cena’s occasional heel turns, fans show immense respect and support for him.
“It’s amazing how the fans have changed. I resented him at first. I didn’t like him at first,” JBL admitted.
JBL’s perspective underscores how retirement in wrestling has transformed into a celebration of legacy rather than just the character’s storyline. Especially with Cena’s recent heel turn after securing his record 17th title at WrestleMania 41, JBL’s predictions imply that Cena’s retirement will be remembered more for the heartfelt farewell and fan appreciation than for any ‘heel heat’ he generated.
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Fan Take: This discussion is crucial for WWE fans because it highlights the emotional journey of one of the sport’s greatest icons, John Cena. Whether heel or face at retirement, the immense respect he commands signals a unifying moment for the WWE community and a powerful reminder of the lasting impact a wrestler’s legacy holds beyond their in-ring character.
