John Cena to make his WWE return as a heel and target top champion? Potential hint analyzed

John Cena is set to make his final WWE run as an in-ring athlete next year. Many names expressed interest in sharing the ring with The Cenation Leader, but one could meet a different side of the 16-time world champion when he reurns.

John Cena started his WWE career in 2000 and had a slow and steady rise to the main roster. His rise to fame began when he portrayed the persona of 'The Doctor of Thuganomics.' It was his eventual babyface turn that made him the face of the company, despite having many doubters too. While it is expected that he will cap off his illustrious career next year as a babyface, he can make a detour for Cody Rhodes.

John recently posted a cryptic photo of Cody Rhodes as Stardust on his Instagram, possibly hinting at a future feud between the two next year. Since The American Nightmare is arguably one of the biggest babyfaces in WWE today, the company may not want to risk turning him heel. As a result, Cena can be the one to play the bad guy instead.

John's Farewell Tour is all about possibilities and "last chances." Since he has mostly played a babyface for the bulk of his career, turning heel for one match won't hurt him as he is already a legend. Also, it can be somewhat of a passing of the torch moment for the Undisputed WWE Champion.

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Will John Cena pick his opponents for his WWE Farewell Tour?

As a veteran and well-known name in the wrestling industry, John Cena certainly has some power and influence backstage. However, he decided not to use this regarding his upcoming Farewell Tour.

In July 2024, the 16-time world champion stated he didn't want to hand-pick his opponents for his retirement run. He added that he would rather challenge himself with the stars he will face and tell great stories based on that.

"I don't and have never put much stock in expectations that are beyond my control and I've tried to lead in existence where I can control what I can. And I am in no position to hand-pick opponents. I've always had a wonderful time challenging myself, telling stories with whatever hand I was dealt. So I think that's part of the allure and part of the excitement of what we're about to embark on is stories we can't tell and hopefully who's gonna show up," he said.

It will be interesting to see what will happen in John Cena's Farewell Tour next year.