Home News > We Got a John Cena Heel Turn Before GTA 6 — and He’s in on the Meme

We Got a John Cena Heel Turn Before GTA 6 — and He’s in on the Meme

by Claire Mar 18,2025

John Cena's surprise heel turn at WWE Elimination Chamber wasn't just a wrestling bombshell; it also perfectly fueled the ongoing GTA 6 meme. The twelve-year wait for Rockstar's next big title has spawned countless jokes about things happening before GTA 6's release. Cena's heel turn—his first in two decades—became a prime example. The beloved wrestler, known for his "good guy" persona and Make-A-Wish record, unexpectedly embraced the dark side, beating GTA 6 to the punch.

For the first time in over 20 years, John Cena is a WWE bad guy. Photo by Rich Freeda/WWE via Getty Images.

Fully embracing the meme, Cena posted an image of GTA 6 and its 2025 release date to his 21 million Instagram followers. This wasn't a GTA 6 cameo announcement, but a playful nod to the internet's collective amusement.

Despite the playful nature, some speculate Cena's post hints at a deeper connection to the game. Given the fervent speculation surrounding GTA 6's release and marketing, this isn't entirely surprising.

So, John Cena's villainous comeback predates GTA 6's arrival, but the wait for the game's release is nearing its end, with Take-Two Interactive confirming a Fall 2025 launch window.

In December 2023, a former Rockstar developer attempted to explain the staggered release of GTA 6, arriving on PS5 and Xbox first, before hitting PC. He urged PC gamers to give the studio the benefit of the doubt regarding its launch strategy.

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Further information on GTA 6 includes Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick's response to concerns about the future of GTA Online after GTA 6's release.