Cody Rhodes Reflects on WWE Return and Upcoming SummerSlam Challenge
In a current communication with The Miz on So, What Do You Want To Talk About?, Cody Rhodes spread out about one of the most transformative durations in his wrestling career. Rhodes, a imperative discern within the creation and fulfillment of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), made a momentous go back to WWE at WrestleMania 38, a circulate that reignited his passion for the game.
Rhodes’ return to WWE marked a great bankruptcy in his career. After departing WWE in 2016 due to frustrations with his function and role, Rhodes ventured into independent circuits and worldwide promotions like TNA, Ring of Honor, and NJPW. These experiences, culminating inside the founding of AEW, had been instrumental in shaping his wrestling character and career trajectory.
Reflecting on his WWE comeback, Rhodes shared, “I feel I was so caught up in the moment of the revolution that was happening, and wanting to be the guy they trusted the most with the revolution, wanting to be the guy they trusted the most when all these changes are happening.” Rhodes, who had become a prominent face in wrestling’s evolving landscape, expressed a deep sense of responsibility and ambition during AEW’s rise. “The world is opening up and wrestlers are coming straight from the independents as they are to a big-time TV setting. I just wanted to be the face of all of that.”
Despite his dedication, Rhodes admitted that the intense focus on the AEW project sometimes left him questioning its impact. “I feel like I focused heavily on it, not realizing, ‘Is this working? Is it not working? Is this taking off?’ Especially with AEW, I was very in the moment. ‘We’re going to do this. It’s going to be great.’”
His return to WWE was marked by uncertainty. Rhodes was aware that while he might receive a warm welcome, there was also a possibility of being met with mixed reactions due to his departure and subsequent achievements elsewhere. “By the time I came back at WrestleMania, my feeling was, ‘I think I’ll be well-received, but I might also be booed as the guy who went away and did all these things.’” However, the overwhelming response from fans and the energy of his comeback sparked a renewed sense of purpose. “As soon as I came back, instant to walking out, it had rekindled, not just my love for pro wrestling, but it rekindled the feeling of ‘I can get to the top. It’s not lost yet. I still have a shot at it,’” Rhodes reflected.
Looking ahead, Rhodes faces a powerful venture at SummerSlam. He will shield his Undisputed WWE Title against Solo Sikoa, who has emerged as a dominant pressure within The Bloodline. Following Roman Reigns’ departure from the spotlight, Sikoa has seized manage, bolstering the faction with new recruits and handing over a brutal dismissal of Jimmy Uso. This strength shift inside The Bloodline has set the degree for an extreme showdown, with Rhodes status at the vanguard.
SummerSlam guarantees to be a high-stakes occasion, presenting numerous different marquee fits. Damian Priest will defend the World Heavyweight Title against Gunther in what’s expected to be a tough-hitting contest. Additionally, CM Punk and Drew McIntyre will face off in singles motion, a conflict that enthusiasts have eagerly awaited. The Women’s World Title will be contested among Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan, while Nia Jax will assignment Bayley for the Women’s Title.
As the wrestling world gears up for SummerSlam, the stakes are higher than ever, with Cody Rhodes’ story being a compelling centerpiece of the event. Rhodes’ journey from AEW pioneer to WWE star illustrates the ever-evolving nature of professional wrestling and the personal resilience required to thrive in its competitive environment.
H/t to Fightful
