John Cena Teases Face Turn Before Title Match vs. Cody Rhodes at WWE SummerSlam

John Cena's shocking heel turn at Elimination Chamber stunned the WWE universe after he wrestled as a babyface for many years, but it appears fans might be getting the old Cena back.

On WWE's go-home episode of SmackDown, Cena appeared to acknowledge past mistakes that turned him to the dark side in a show-opening segment with his SummerSlam opponent, Cody Rhodes, in the ring with him.

Cena even thanked Rhodes, which was a stunning turn of events in itself.

Rhodes appreciated this change of heart, even "welcoming" the old Cena back before toasting him in the ring.

Cena's infamous heel turn occurred after Rhodes turned down The Rock's offer to become "his champion." The Rock gave Cena a signal to attack Rhodes, and that's exactly what happened after the two initially shared an embrace. The Rock and even Travis Scott joined in on the attack.

One month later, Cena ended Rhodes' year-long reign as the Undisputed WWE Champion at WrestleMania 41. He's been the title-holder ever since, although Rhodes is getting another shot at the belt this Sunday at SummerSlam.

Ultimately, this is a sudden turn of events and change of heart, much like Cena's turn from face to heel at Elimination Chamber. Whether this is a legitimate callback to his old self or whether something sinister is in store in SummerSlam remains to be seen. Regardless, Rhodes and Cena have a showdown scheduled for Sunday in New Jersey's MetLife Stadium.