Cody Rhodes, the newly minted Universal Heavyweight Champion, is poised to make a significant impact on his first official night on WWE SmackDown. Following a subtle departure from Monday Night RAW, where he passed the torch to his ally Jey Uso, Rhodes is set to embrace his new role on the blue brand. This transition comes amidst swirling rumors of his impending draft, potentially solidifying his position this Friday night.
As Cody Rhodes steps into the spotlight, there are a few critical actions he must undertake to solidify his status and set the tone for his reign. Here’s what to expect from “The American Nightmare” as he ushers in a new championship era on WWE SmackDown.
1. Acknowledging Roman Reigns
Cody Rhodes is on the cusp of replacing Roman Reigns as the face of SmackDown. Reigns, despite criticism for his sporadic appearances, has left big shoes to fill, having significantly shaped the brand’s narrative with his compelling storylines—even in absence.
For Rhodes, the first order of business should be to acknowledge Reigns’ influential reign. This acknowledgment isn’t just about paying homage; it’s about respectfully positioning himself as a champion who will be more present, promising to consistently show up week after week, thereby contrasting himself with his predecessor and setting his own championship parameters.
Cody putting himself through a table after we chanted for tables all night 😂@CodyRhodes #WWELondon pic.twitter.com/Dc7cMj653p
— Steven (@StevenHuzzey) April 19, 2024
2. Steering Clear of The Bloodline
Rhodes has a complicated history with The Bloodline, primarily due to his extended feud with Roman Reigns. With Reigns’ departure creating a vacuum, Solo Sikoa and Tama Tonga have stepped up, reshaping The Bloodline in their image. As they navigate these turbulent waters, Cody would do well to avoid entanglements with this disoriented group, at least for the time being. This strategic distance will allow him to focus on establishing his reign without immediate controversy or chaos.
3. Confrontation with AJ Styles or LA Knight
A pivotal moment on Cody’s first night will likely involve a confrontation with the winner of the AJ Styles vs. LA Knight match, set to determine the number one contender for his title. This standoff is crucial not only for setting up his first title defense but also for establishing the competitive landscape under his championship. Whether facing AJ Styles’ ruthless tactics or LA Knight’s momentum from a recent WrestleMania win, this encounter will be a defining moment for Rhodes on SmackDown.
4. Reunion with Randy Orton
A personal and fan-favorite moment could unfold if Cody reunites with Randy Orton, an old ally and fellow top babyface. Their shared history and mutual respect could lead to memorable television, potentially setting up future collaborations or even tag team scenarios involving other wrestlers like Kevin Owens. This interaction would not only serve as a nod to long-time WWE fans but also reinforce Rhodes’ connections within the roster, showcasing his role as a unifying champion.
Conclusion: Cody Rhodes’ Blueprint for Success
As Cody Rhodes embraces his role on SmackDown, his actions on the first night will be critical in laying the groundwork for his tenure as champion. By acknowledging the past, strategically navigating present rivalries, and setting the stage for future confrontations, Rhodes can craft a championship legacy that resonates with fans and bolsters the brand. Tonight’s episode is more than just a debut; it’s the dawn of a new era in WWE SmackDown history.
