A former champion has taken shots at John Cena following his recent heel turn.
John Cena’s heel turn at Elimination Chamber 2025 took many by surprise. However, not everyone has been affected by it as R-Truth has. The 53-year-old has won it with WWE, but still looks up to his “childhood hero,” Cena. That is why the latter’s heel turn hit him hard.
However, that all seems to be out the door now, especially after Cena put him through a table following Backlash 2025. Making an appearance on this week’s SmackDown, R-Truth called out the Undisputed WWE Champion, claiming that he will not be facing his “hero” at Saturday Night’s Main Event, but rather a version of Cena that has been consumed by power.
He ended his promo with a very clear statement, claiming that he will defeat The Last Real Champion tomorrow night, and if he doesn’t, there will be a “riot.”
I miss my hero, I can’t deny it, so Saturday we say it again, if Cena wins we riot,”
“I miss my hero, I can’t deny it, so Saturday we say it again, if Cena wins we riot.”
— R-Truth#SmackDown
— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) May 24, 2025
It may not be for the world title, but it’s safe to say that Truth will be looking to earn some respect, and from the looks of it, he is not afraid to bring up the past on his way to earning it.
R-Truth made a reference to John Cena’s appearance at ECW One Night Stand 2006
For those wondering what bringing up the past had to do with R-Truth’s segment, look no further than ECW One Night Stand 2006. What Truth said during his promo has everything to do with that fateful night. After all, that was perhaps the most hostile environment John Cena has ever wrestled in.
Cena, as the WWE Heavyweight Champion, walked into the Hammerstein Ballroom to boos and jeers, and looked on as a fan held a sign that read “If Cena wins we riot.” He went on to lose the title to Rob Van Dam, in what is now considered to be one of the most iconic matches in pro wrestling history.