John Cena might have had a motive for himself for turning heel and siding with one of the most powerful men in WWE, The Rock.
John Cena was the brand ambassador of 'Hustle, Loyalty, and Respect' for many years and an inspiration to millions across the world. However, all that changed in the blink of an eye at the end of the WWE Elimination Chamber 2025 PLE. Right after Cena won the Men's Chamber match, he had an in-ring moment with his forthcoming WrestleMania opponent, Cody Rhodes.
The celebrations were cut short with The Rock's arrival with popular rapper Travis Scott. The Final Boss signaled Cena after Cody declined his offer, and Cena kicked him low, which was followed by a huge assault by the trio. In doing so, John Cena shocked the world by turning heel in the final leg of his career, which is set to culminate at the end of 2025.

John Cena began his farewell, claiming that he was a desperate man who wanted to win his 17th World title before hanging up his boots. His first attempt at getting a title shot failed, as he was unable to win the 2025 Royal Rumble match. Cena next entered himself in the Men's Elimination Chamber and escaped with a close victory to earn the match.
However, at this point, John Cena might have also realised that his chances at becoming a 17-time World Champion are limited. Moreover, he is not in the same physical condition as he was during the peak of his career. So, realising his physical limitations against a superstar like the Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes who is in his prime, Cena might have wanted to use underhanded tactics to ensure his WrestleMania 41 win.

Analyzing the above, his decision to side with The Rock seems to be a logical decision, and it is better to walk out of WrestleMania 41 as the new WWE Champion. Understanding The Final Boss' influence and position as a TKO Board member, Cena might have thought it to be a good decision that would help him increase his chances of beating Cody Rhodes on the Grandest Stage of Them All.

With Cena abandoning the principles that he built his life on and selling out to The Rock, it remains to be seen if one of the biggest decisions of his life of going rogue turn out to be a good decision for him at WrestleMania 41.
Also read: John Cena vs. Cody Rhodes Officially Added to the Card for the Undisputed Championship at WrestleMania 41