Cody Rhodes has held the title of Undisputed WWE Champion for nearly two months, a reign that has seen its share of triumphs and critiques alike. His journey culminated at WrestleMania 40, where he emerged victorious against Roman Reigns, ending the latter’s impressive title reign and solidifying his own place in the annals of wrestling history.
However, as with any reign, there have been voices of dissent. Wrestling luminary Eric Bischoff recently weighed in on Rhodes’ tenure, noting the challenges of maintaining momentum as a young babyface. Bischoff remarked on the layers of storytelling that surrounded previous champions, emphasizing the difficulty of replicating such depth continuously. While Rhodes’ reign has been commendable, Bischoff suggests that expecting every storyline to reach the emotional heights of WrestleMania is simply unrealistic.
Despite these challenges, Rhodes has proven himself a worthy champion, defending his title against a diverse array of opponents. Following WrestleMania 40, he showcased his commitment and valor in matches at BackLash and King & Queen of the Ring pay-per-views. Notably, his showdown with AJ Styles in France garnered acclaim as one of the year’s standout matches, while his victory over Logan Paul in Saudi Arabia exceeded expectations.
Rhodes’ determination extends beyond televised events, as he has defended his title in non-televised WWE Live shows against formidable opponents like Dominik Mysterio, Shinsuke Nakamura, and AJ Styles. With his SummerSlam opponent yet to be determined, speculation abounds as to who will challenge Rhodes next. The recent announcement that King of the Ring winner Gunther intends to vie for the World Heavyweight Championship sets the stage for a potential clash of titans at SummerSlam 2024. Additionally, rumors swirl regarding a possible confrontation with wrestling icon The Rock, adding further intrigue to Rhodes’ reign as champion.
As Cody Rhodes continues to navigate the challenges of championship status, his reign stands as a testament to his skill, resilience, and enduring legacy in the world of professional wrestling.
