John Cena is scheduled to defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Cody Rhodes in a Street Fight at SummerSlam 2025, but recent developments suggest this matchup may be at risk. Following a tense episode of SmackDown, concerns have risen over John Cena WWE SummerSlam removal due to Cody Rhodes’ aggressive actions and Cena’s own unusual behavior during the contract signing.
Last Friday’s contract signing revealed a shift in Cena’s typical confident demeanor, as he appeared hesitant and attempted to withdraw from the match citing filming obligations. This withdrawal effort triggered an intense response from Cody Rhodes, who violently assaulted Cena in the ring, leaving him unconscious. Rhodes then forced Cena’s autograph on the contract, cementing the match’s status as a Street Fight despite Cena’s objections. This unexpected confrontation has raised doubts about Cena’s participation at SummerSlam.
The Escalating Rivalry Risks Cena’s Participation
Although Cena is not officially scheduled to appear on this week’s SmackDown, speculation surrounds a potential surprise return. Should Cena confront Rhodes, tensions could escalate further, risking another brutal attack. Industry insiders warn that a follow-up assault might seriously injure Cena, possibly sidelining him and forcing WWE to reconsider his SummerSlam involvement.
The increasing hostility from Cody Rhodes might ultimately cost him his championship opportunity if Cena is deemed medically unfit to compete at SummerSlam, often called The Biggest Party of the Summer. While this remains speculative, it sets a tone of uncertainty for the upcoming pay-per-view event, especially under the guidance of WWE’s Triple H-led creative team.
Inside Insight: Vince Russo on Cena’s Unanticipated Heel Turn
Former WWE head writer Vince Russo recently shed light on the backstage circumstances that may have influenced John Cena’s turn to a heel character, a shift that startled many fans at the Elimination Chamber event in Toronto. Russo attributed the turn partly to internal creative disagreements, particularly involving The Rock.
According to Russo, The Rock initially wanted Cody Rhodes to assume the heel role but encountered resistance from management, which led to John Cena being the alternative choice. Russo described this as a “plan B” after The Rock’s suggestions were repeatedly dismissed.
“Well, for starters, I think it was plan B. Because Rock has told us this, Cody has told us this. Rock wanted Cody to turn heel and they poo-pooed it. So then Rock’s next idea was John Cena turning heel, which was plan B. I also think at that point, Rock was a little bit p*ssed off because this was the second WrestleMania in a row that they didn’t listen to him. So, I think at that point, he said, ‘Well, you’re on your own. There are other things that I could do rather than hang around here and be shot down every time I come up with something.’ So, at that point Rock takes himself out of it creatively.” —Vince Russo, former WWE head writer
Looking Ahead: Uncertain Fate of the SummerSlam Match
John Cena’s projected WWE SummerSlam removal remains an open question as the storyline continues to develop on SmackDown. Whether Cena will recover from the attacks and take the ring against Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship is unclear. The fallout from this rivalry could significantly impact the SummerSlam card and WWE’s narrative direction in the coming weeks.
Fans and analysts will be watching closely as WWE navigates this tense storyline, with Cena’s status central to the event’s success and overall show pacing. The physical and creative decisions made now will shape the landscape of WWE heading into one of its biggest annual events.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is John Cena diagnosed with?
A. Famous wrestler John Cena has been diagnosed with skin cancer. Doctors discovered melanoma on his chest and back, about a year apart. Cena shared with USA Today that learning about the cancer changed his perspective on life. He encourages men to pay more attention to skin care.
Q. Has John Cena ever had surgery?
A. John Cena recently discussed his decision to undergo hair transplant surgery to address his bald spot. In a recent interview, the WWE star criticized wrestling critics for pushing him to take this step.
Q. What illness does John Cena have?
A. John Cena, a famous wrestler from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), has shared that he has been diagnosed with skin cancer on two occasions.
