Cody Rhodes is reportedly staying a babyface.
On the January 9 edition of SmackDown, Cody Rhodes lost the Undisputed WWE Championship to Drew McIntyre, leaving his path to WrestleMania suddenly unclear. From this, many fans are wondering whether now it’s the right opportunity for the company to turn ‘The American Nightmare’ heel in order to add a new edge to his character. However, it seems that’s not in the works.
According to Dave Meltzer in the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, it’s believed that a Cody Rhodes heel turn isn’t on the cards.
“Regarding any rumors of a Cody Rhodes heel turn, we were told it’s not happening now, won’t until it’s deemed it has to and the feeling is that’s not any time soon and we were told his merchandise numbers are nothing to be tinkered with.”
-Dave Meltzer
Since returning in 2022, WWE have presented Cody Rhodes as a babyface, with his fan popularity even helping him stay the course towards the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 40 when it looked as if The Rock would challenge for the gold instead. After a long run as one of the company’s biggest babyfaces there remains intrigue over whether the two-time former WWE Champion could one day become a heel, although whether they want to explore that path later down the line remains to be seen.
As for how Rhodes’ loss to McIntyre has affected WrestleMania 42, a recent report has indicated where WWE might be headed with regard to the Undisputed WWE Championship. You can read more about that here.
As always, we’ll aim to provide any further updates on Cody Rhodes as soon as we hear more.
