WWE presents the 38th SummerSlam on August 2 and 3, 2025, marking the first two-night edition of the summer’s biggest event. Cody Rhodes will face his arch-nemesis, John Cena, in a street fight, in hopes of avenging his Undisputed WWE Championship loss at WrestleMania 41. Cena, now a 17-time world champion, turned heel before WrestleMania 41, aligning with The Rock at Elimination Chamber 2025.
The Rock has been absent from WWE programming since Elimination Chamber 2025, but there’s speculation he could appear at SummerSlam. He played a pivotal role in Cody Rhodes’ storyline leading into WrestleMania XL. History may repeat itself, as the TKO Board member has been undermining Rhodes since March 2025.
The Rock facilitated Cena’s heel turn, with his ally Travis Scott aiding Cena in April to secure his record-breaking 17th world championship.
The Rock’s Possible Appearance at SummerSlam 2025
Cena hasn’t mentioned The Rock since Elimination Chamber. If Cena excludes The Rock from his narrative, it risks leaving a loose end in the storyline. Should Cena lose at SummerSlam, he might turn on The Rock, blaming him for not helping retain the title. If The Rock’s music hits and “The Most Electrifying Man in Sports Entertainment” confronts Cena, it could spark a compelling new arc.
The Rock and John Cena’s History
Cena and The Rock clashed at WrestleMania 28 and 29, splitting their victories. Now, their rivalry could evolve, with each assembling teams for Survivor Series, culminating in a final showdown in December. The Rock’s appearance at SummerSlam 2025 is crucial to resolving this saga between two WWE legends.
Cody Rhodes Hints at Heel Turn
Cody Rhodes recently suggested a potential heel turn during a conversation with Bill Simmons. A double switch could occur at SummerSlam 2025, with Cody embracing a villainous role while John Cena returns to his heroic persona. This shift could spark a compelling storyline, captivating fans as the frenemy saga unfolds in the months leading up to Cena’s retirement.
Why Wrestlemania 39 is Cody Rhodes’s Favorite Match
Full episode with @CodyRhodes coming Thursday on the Bill Simmons Podcast! pic.twitter.com/Xe9XdZuleD
— The Ringer (@ringer) July 30, 2025
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