📰 WWE Legend to Turn Heel After 12 Years and Become "Mr. TKO" to End John Cena? Exploring the Possibility

 

CM Punk to Turn Heel and Become Mr. TKO to End John Cena's Reign? WWE Rumors Explored

The WWE Universe is buzzing with speculation as CM Punk could finally embrace his dark side again, ending a 12-year babyface run to dethrone John Cena at Night of Champions 2025. The potential heel turn may see Punk adopt the "Mr. TKO" moniker—a name Cena mockingly coined during his explosive promo on SmackDown.

🎙️ Cena vs Punk: “Mr. TKO” Reference Sparks Heel Turn Rumors

On SmackDown, John Cena lit the fuse with a brutal verbal takedown of Punk, sarcastically dubbing him Mr. TKO—a jab referencing the WWE-UFC merger under Endeavor’s TKO Group Holdings. This sharp dig resonated with fans, drawing mixed reactions and reigniting interest in their iconic rivalry.

Now, the narrative might come full circle at Night of Champions 2025 in Saudi Arabia, where Punk is set to challenge Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championship. If WWE chooses to execute a double turn, Cena could leave as a babyface, while CM Punk transforms into a top-tier heel.

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🦹 Why CM Punk's Heel Turn Makes Sense

The Second City Saint has flirted with the darker side before, but hasn't turned heel in WWE since 2013. With Cena on a retirement tour, the stakes have never been higher. A heel Punk claiming the title by any means necessary—and embracing the Mr. TKO persona—could be a career-defining moment for both men.

Benefits of Punk’s Heel Turn:

• Fresh direction for Punk’s current run

• Sets up high-profile feuds (e.g., The Rock, Seth Rollins)

• Creates a legitimate power heel to carry the brand post-Cena

• Completes Cena’s return to babyface status for his retirement farewell

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🤝 CM Punk and The Rock: Future Alliance?

Fans have speculated about a CM Punk–The Rock alliance, especially if both are cast as heels. The Final Boss and The Second City Saint forming a powerhouse faction under the TKO umbrella could dominate WWE heading into WrestleMania 42.

Meanwhile, Cena's final feud could culminate with a trilogy bout vs CM Punk or a farewell dream match with The Rock, wrapping up one of the most iconic careers in wrestling history.

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🔥 WWE Teases Punk vs Rollins Rematch

At Fanatics Fest, WWE dropped a major hint about Punk’s post-Cena plans. In a heated face-off, Seth Rollins confronted CM Punk while holding the Money in the Bank briefcase. Security had to separate them, further teasing a continuation of their storied rivalry.

If Punk walks out of Night of Champions as “Mr. TKO” and WWE Champion, a showdown with Rollins could headline a future premium live event like SummerSlam 2025 or Survivor Series.

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👑 What to Expect at Night of Champions 2025

• Cena vs Punk for the Undisputed WWE Championship

• Possible double turn: Cena goes babyface, Punk turns heel

• Heel Punk = Mr. TKO — A new era begins

• Future feuds: Rollins, The Rock, and more

Night of Champions 2025 may become the most important pivot point in WWE's modern era. Will Cena retire as champion? Or will CM Punk embrace his true self and take over WWE as Mr. TKO?