John Cena’s heel turn at WWE Elimination Chamber stunned longtime fans—and no one knows how to process it better than Kurt Angle.
After 20 years of being WWE’s go-to babyface and the ultimate hero to kids worldwide, Cena flipped the script in February 2025. On the March 17 episode of RAW, he explained the shocking move by calling out the WWE Universe for what he described as years of emotional abuse. “I’ve been in a toxic, dysfunctional relationship with the fans,” Cena declared. “Even the kids.”
The WWE legend didn’t hold back, accusing his young fanbase of turning their backs on him and fueling years of online hate, despite his loyalty to them. That segment had the internet split—but for Kurt Angle, it was a familiar sight with a twist.
Angle, who wrestled Cena in some of his most iconic early matches between 2002 and 2006, weighed in during an exclusive chat with Sportskeeda Wrestling’s Bill Apter. The Hall of Famer didn’t hold back when reflecting on Cena turning his back on his youngest supporters.
“It was surprising that they did it because John’s been babyface for so long and the kids absolutely love him,” Angle said. “I know he broke a lot of kids’ hearts. It was kinda funny. It’s not funny because I know the kids were heartbroken, but it’s kinda hilarious that these poor little kids were crying for John Cena and we all know the business is a work.”
Still, Angle made it clear he doesn’t think Cena will stay a villain for long. With Cena set to retire at the end of 2025, the Olympic gold medallist believes there’s a redemptive arc waiting.
“I know for sure that John will eventually turn baby. He’s not gonna retire as a heel,” Angle said, shutting down the idea that Cena’s final act will be as a villain.
With just months left before Cena’s retirement, the door is wide open for one last character swerve—and based on Angle’s prediction, it could be the redemption story fans never saw coming.
Do you think John Cena will go back to being a babyface before he retires? Or should he stay heel until the very end? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.