On the final “SmackDown” before SummerSlam this Sunday, Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena appeared to end his run as a heel, returning to the role of a “face” during an in-ring confrontation with his opponent, Cody Rhodes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The shift in attitude has fueled speculation of a potential “double turn” at SummerSlam, especially given Rhodes’ own recent aggression, such as his attack on Cena on July 18 to add the Street Fight stipulation to their title match.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here is a recap of what happened in the ring on Friday night:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cena began by thanking Rhodes for their recent conflict, stating that it was the \u201ckick in the butt\u201d<\/strong> he needed to get the final stretch of his career back on track.<\/p>\n\n\n\n He then offered a direct explanation for his heel turn, which began at Elimination Chamber in March, saying: \u201cI went along with someone’s idea to be shocking, and then the people who were supposed to be on my team left and I was alone, pretending to be something I’m not.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Cena declared that he wants to retire from WWE as a champion, not to ruin wrestling, but because he loves the sport and doesn’t want fans to forget him. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Following the speech, Cena offered Rhodes a drink, and the two drank together. However, Rhodes seemed visibly hesitant about the gesture, leaving it unclear if Cena’s change of heart is genuine or a mind game for their Undisputed WWE Championship Street Fight this Sunday at SummerSlam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n