Paul Heyman Discusses John Cena’s Heel Turn and Travis Scott Storyline Collapse
Paul Heyman recently sat down on The Ariel Helwani Show to offer a deep dive into John Cena’s unusual five-month stint as a heel in WWE. Heyman described the experiment as a revealing look into how today’s WWE audience interacts with the blend of character work and storytelling that defines professional wrestling. He also shed light on a storyline involving The Rock and Travis Scott that ultimately never came to fruition, leaving fans wondering what happened behind the scenes.
Heyman was clear when asked if Cena’s heel turn was a mistake. His answer was a firm no. However, he acknowledged that the run did not play out exactly as he expected. The experience taught him that modern WWE fans are drawn to star power and compelling performances just as much as they follow the scripted narratives. “They are there to appreciate the twisted performance art known as professional wrestling,” Heyman explained, underscoring the evolving relationship between the performers and the crowd.
One of the most interesting aspects of this heel run was the unique dynamic of the live audience. Heyman described how fans would boo Cena during the matches, fully embracing his villain role, only to shift gears the moment the show ended. At the close of the event, the fans would stand and applaud Cena, chanting his name in tribute. This reaction highlighted a new level of sophistication from the crowd, understanding their part in the performance and showing respect to Cena as he moved toward retirement from in-ring competition.
Despite the mixed reception in the ring, Heyman praised Cena’s commitment and risk-taking. He noted that Cena took a bold chance with his image, given his massive merchandise sales and lucrative Hollywood career. Heyman pointed out how certain lines in Cena’s promos, like accusing parents of failing their children, could have jeopardized Cena’s off-screen opportunities. “You never know who you’re gonna piss off,” he said, emphasizing the fine balance Cena had to maintain.
A significant point of curiosity for fans was the fate of the planned involvement of The Rock and Travis Scott. Initially, the storyline teased a collaboration between these high-profile figures and Cena, but both vanished from the storyline before any major payoff. Heyman admitted the plan “fell apart,” and the company moved on without it. Regarding The Rock’s absence at WrestleMania, Heyman was straightforward. He does not know what happened and suggested that only The Rock himself could explain. Heyman also shared that his own focus was on his WrestleMania main event, which meant he paid little attention to storylines not involved in that show.
Looking back, Heyman expressed satisfaction that Cena’s heel turn happened at all, saying it answered a major “what if” that had lingered in wrestling discussions for years. “What if John Cena ever turned heel? Well, now we know,” he said. Heyman admired how far Cena pushed the character, noting that he went places even Heyman did not anticipate. The passion Cena brought to the role was undeniable.
John Cena’s heel run officially ended on the final episode of SmackDown before SummerSlam, where Cena’s farewell tour continues. Fans can now look forward to his upcoming high-profile feud with Brock Lesnar. For those interested in a detailed discussion, Heyman’s full interview remains available on The Ariel Helwani Show.