John Cena’s shocking heel turn at Elimination Chamber: Toronto left WWE fans stunned. However, many have criticized the company for not capitalizing on the moment, as Cena has been absent from TV ever since.
During the latest episode of The Wrestling Time Machine, WWE Hall of Famer Teddy Long addressed this criticism and defended WWE’s decision to keep Cena off TV, arguing that his absence is actually helping build the storyline.
Teddy Long Believes WWE Is Taking the Right Approach with Cena’s Absence
Speaking to host Mac Davis, Teddy Long dismissed the idea that WWE is mishandling Cena’s return, saying that fans are rushing the storyline.
“You’re rushing it. Why do you always want to rush stuff? You can make something happen in six minutes. So stop rushing stuff. This is great. You shouldn’t see him right now because now this builds the heat. The heat is building. So when you do see him, you’ll see how it explodes.” [1:16-1:42]
According to Long, Cena staying off TV allows anticipation to build, making his eventual return feel even bigger.
John Cena’s WWE Schedule for the Coming Months
Fans won’t have to wait much longer for Cena’s return. WWE has confirmed that The Franchise Player will break his silence on his heel turn during the March 17, 2025, episode of RAW.
Here’s a look at Cena’s upcoming appearances:
- March 17, 24, 31 – RAW: Cena will appear to build up his WrestleMania 41 storyline.
- April 6-7 – WrestleMania 41: Expected to headline Night Two against Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship.
- April 25 – SmackDown (Post-WrestleMania Edition): Cena’s first SmackDown appearance post-WrestleMania.
- May 10 – Backlash 2025 (St. Louis, Missouri): Expected to compete in a major match.
- May 24 – Saturday Night’s Main Event
- May 30, June 13, June 20 – SmackDown Appearances
Could John Cena Win His 17th World Title at WrestleMania 41?
With Cena’s Backlash 2025 appearance confirmed, some fans believe WWE might be setting up a historic 17th world title win for Cena at WrestleMania 41. If he defeats Cody Rhodes in Las Vegas, Cena could then enter a post-WrestleMania feud with Randy Orton, reigniting their legendary rivalry.
WWE Playing the Long Game with Cena’s Heel Turn
While fans may want to see Cena on TV every week, WWE is slow-burning his heel storyline, allowing the tension to build. With his return set for RAW on March 17, the anticipation for what he’ll say—and do next—is at an all-time high.
FAQs
Why hasn’t John Cena appeared since his heel turn?
Teddy Long believes WWE is taking a slow-burn approach to build heat for Cena’s return, making it more impactful.
When is John Cena returning to WWE TV?
John Cena will return on the March 17, 2025, episode of RAW to break his silence on his heel turn.
Is John Cena facing Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41?
While not confirmed, Cena is expected to challenge Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 41.
Will John Cena win his 17th World Title at WrestleMania 41?
Some fans believe WWE is setting up Cena to defeat Cody Rhodes and win his record-breaking 17th world title.
What is John Cena’s WWE schedule for 2025?
Cena will appear on RAW on March 17, 24, and 31, then at WrestleMania 41, the April 25 SmackDown, Backlash on May 10, and multiple SmackDown events in May and June.
