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WWE Hall of Famer Thinks John Cena Needs Defining Moment to Cement His Heel Run

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Xaiver Aguiar | Last updated Mar 21, 2025 11:43 AM ET

Even with a loaded WrestleMania card rapidly approaching, John Cena has firmly monopolized wrestling media coverage ahead of the biggest show of the year. His heel turn was an era-defining swerve that is still creating mainstream buzz.

Such a massive angle means plenty of fans and former wrestlers have become fantasy bookers, sharing predictions or analyses on what the next few months for Cena could look like. A WWE Hall of Famer and former rival of Cena recently shared what he thinks the company should do to cement the 47-year-old's run as a heel.

During a recent appearance on Something to Wrestle With, JBL discussed the importance of reaching the next level to solidify the drastic character shift. "He has to have a seminal moment—a reason to escalate," JBL said. "That can be an explanation, whatever that is. You have to have a seminal moment, and that moment is still to come. It's the most important thing you do in a storyline."

JBL is one of the best foils in the history of the business and was a master at generating heat. He fully committed to being a villain, down to his mannerisms, entrance, and ring attire.

Cena has yet to tweak much of his persona, which doesn't match his brutal actions from Elimination Chamber. He's attempted to explain the lack of shift, but it seems like management's ploy to milk him for more merch sales.

There's time for Cena to articulate his motives further, but that has to start on the next episode of RAW. It'll be fascinating to see if/when he finds that next gear.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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