Is John Cena still a strong merchandise seller in WWE despite the heel turn?
One of the biggest merch shifters in company history, it was stated in countless interviews that Cena was never turned heel as the company were concerned over how it would affect them financially. However, at Cena’s final appearance at Elimination Chamber as an active competitor, the 16-time World Champion turned for the first time in 2 decades to attack Cody Rhodes and side with The Rock.
As the Cena retirement tour continues, new merchandise is being produced for each location, including t-shirts, hats and custom championships. While Cena is presented as one of the top heels in the company, the merch sales tell a different story.
Appearing as a guest on The Bill Simmons podcast, WWE President Nick Khan maintained that Cena is still the number one seller at most events:
“So here’s what’s interesting about that whole process. John Cena’s merchandise is still off the charts. Top of show at every event, or almost every event. The sort of collective decision to make that heel turn, Triple H, Cena, Dwayne Johnson, Cody, everyone immediately on board with the whole thing.”
John Cena Compared To Legendary Villain
The heel turn at Elimination Chamber was one of the most shocking moments in years with many in disbelief that Cena attacked Rhodes, especially in his final year as a pro wrestler. The moment went viral on social media with many from wrestling and the wider world of entertainment giving their thoughts on the angle. In a recent interview, Triple H compared John Cena’s change in attitude to an iconic movie villain.
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