Cody Rhodes returned to WWE at WrestleMania 38 as Seth Rollins’ mystery opponent. The American Nightmare has since performed as a babyface, but his work has seemingly upset some fans. Those who followed his journey may recall that he often displayed a somber expression during his chase for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania 39 and XL.
WWE Finds Cody Rhodes Dependable
WWE recognizes that Cody Rhodes has a dedicated fanbase. The Rock had nearly taken his spot at WrestleMania XL, despite Cody having won that year’s Royal Rumble match. The #WeWantCody chants altered the creative storyline, and Rhodes got his well-deserved match, where he finished the story and became the new Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.
WWE knows that Cody has a style that makes him an ideal candidate for a story proving that hard work is the key to success. While Cody has embodied this narrative well, his aura has faded since becoming champion at The Show of Shows last year. The former AEW Vice President has continued with the same approach, leading to creative stagnation.
1 year ago, @CodyRhodes finished the story and defeated @WWERomanReigns to become the Undisputed @WWE Champion at WrestleMania XL! #WrestleMania pic.twitter.com/Bt0mCyMbtv
— USA Network (@USANetwork) April 7, 2025
Where Did WWE Falter with Cody Rhodes?
Cody Rhodes knows that fans love him as a babyface. Although he hinted at turning heel, this shift has not yet occurred. Cody lost his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship to John Cena at WrestleMania 41.
He regained it at SummerSlam 2025; however, he was booed by the WWE Universe, possibly due to facing a soon-to-be-retiring Cena, a fan favorite. It appears that his familiar approach is starting to wear on fans, leading to an underwhelming response. Cody has been out of action due to an attack by Drew McIntyre.
A champion should rise above all odds and seize opportunities when they arise, not hide or overly rely on selling sympathy for an attack.
Rhodes was assaulted by McIntyre after he and John Cena competed in a tag team match against The Scottish Psychopath and Logan Paul. While Rhodes is attempting to gain sympathy from this attack, it’s putting both him and the company in a difficult position.
DREW MCINTYRE CLAYMORES CODY THROUGH THE SIDE OF THE ANNOUNCE TABLE 🤯🤯🤯#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/3lzJqBzSrL
— The Movement – Pro Wrestling (@TheMovementXx) August 9, 2025
What Can WWE Do to Heal the Problem?
Cody Rhodes needs to appear more frequently, even after defeats or injuries, to demonstrate that as a champion, he fears nothing. The former nemesis of Roman Reigns should help elevate the careers of other superstars. Drew McIntyre, Logan Paul, and other heel wrestlers could be ideal opponents to restore the hype he deserves.
Alternatively, WWE could take a bold step and turn Rhodes heel, offering a fresh dimension for both him and the fans. This could align with John Cena’s retirement tour, potentially culminating in a heel turn at Cena’s final appearance.
Cody understands that fans embrace change, as seen with Roman Reigns, who transitioned to a babyface after four years as a heel. It’s time for WWE to consider a similar shift with Rhodes to see the magic unfold.
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