Cody Rhodes may be facing significant WWE consequences after an altercation on the latest episode of SmackDown, which involved Nick Aldis and Drew McIntyre. This incident, which occurred during a heated segment, has set the stage for a series of possible developments affecting the Undisputed WWE Champion.
Altercation Ignites Potential Backlash on SmackDown
The atmosphere on SmackDown escalated when Cody Rhodes, also known as The American Nightmare, became involved in a high-tension exchange with Nick Aldis and Drew McIntyre. The closing moments of the show saw the National Treasure attempt to intervene, only to be pushed aside by Rhodes, leading to McIntyre attacking the champion. This action has triggered discussions about how WWE might respond and what penalties, if any, may be imposed on Rhodes.
Possibility of Cody Rhodes Being Stripped of His Title
One significant outcome could be Nick Aldis using his authority to strip Cody Rhodes of the Undisputed WWE Championship. Given Aldis’s prominent role in the ongoing rivalry between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre, this option is on the table as a disciplinary response. While the likelihood of Rhodes losing his championship in this manner remains slim—especially with a title defense scheduled against McIntyre—the scenario highlights how seriously WWE management may treat such altercations.
Potential for a Heel Turn and Corporate Partnership
Another route WWE may take involves Nick Aldis aligning himself with Drew McIntyre, hinting at a possible heel turn. As the authority figure who negotiated McIntyre’s return, Aldis could use the incident as the catalyst to openly back the Scotsman. This alliance could mark a new direction for the blue brand, transforming McIntyre into Aldis’s “corporate champion” and creating a powerful heel faction at the forefront of SmackDown storylines.
Setting Up a Long-Awaited Match at the Royal Rumble
For years, fans have anticipated Nick Aldis’s return to in-ring competition. The recent physical encounter between Cody Rhodes and Aldis on SmackDown might serve as the trigger for Aldis to challenge Rhodes to a future championship match. If Cody successfully retains his title against McIntyre, the company could build toward a marquee bout between Rhodes and Aldis at the 2026 Royal Rumble, giving fans the opportunity to witness Aldis’s comeback on a major stage.
Imposing a Financial Penalty for Disciplinary Reasons
WWE has a longstanding practice of enforcing strict discipline when authority figures are disrespected on television. In light of Rhodes’s actions against Nick Aldis, it is plausible that a considerable fine could be levied against the champion as punishment. This approach would underline the seriousness of the situation and reinforce authority within the ongoing narrative, leaving fans to await the company’s next move on the first SmackDown of 2026.
The unfolding developments involving Cody Rhodes, Nick Aldis, and Drew McIntyre have injected new intrigue into WWE programming. As fans and insiders weigh the possible consequences, the ramifications for Rhodes’s reign as Undisputed WWE Champion, as well as the future of the blue brand itself, remain uncertain as the next chapter approaches.
Cody Rhodes vs Nick Aldis
All In 2018
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