John Cena says he’s proud of Cody Rhodes for promoting Street Fighter dressed as Guile, calling it “a heck of an idea” ahead of the movie’s October 16 release.
In an interview with ComicBook, Cena was jokingly asked whether his own Peacemaker press or Rhodes’ Guile appearances were worse. He passed on the framing and said he’s a glass half full guy.
Cena said he learned from WWE how important it is to show the character, and that he did all the media for The Suicide Squad in costume “because nobody knew Peacemaker.” He added that it may have helped the character exist beyond that film. Rhodes said earlier this year that Cena has made things hard for him in Hollywood.
On Rhodes, Cena said fans know the wrestler but may not remember Guile, and seeing someone in the costume could bring back nostalgia. “Hats off to Cody for being brave enough to take a moment that could be focused on him as a person,” Cena said. He added that Rhodes understands the goal is for people to enjoy the movie and recognize the character when they see him.
Cena also made clear he isn’t claiming credit. “Whether I was where he got it from or not, I’m very proud of him for his choice, and I think it’s a great decision for the movie,” he said.
Rhodes most recently showed up as Guile at UFC 332 in Salt Lake City, and he had a Street Fighter themed entrance at SummerSlam in August. The movie hits theaters Friday, October 16, with Roman Reigns playing Akuma.
