WWE could be heading for trouble in the aftermath of a potential Cody Rhodes heel turn, as the company currently does not have a clear successor to fill the void of a leading babyface. The issue has surfaced amid ongoing talk about Rhodes possibly switching to a villainous role, sparking concern about the lack of a top-level replacement in WWE’s roster.
Concerns Surrounding Cody Rhodes Heel Turn WWE Scenario
Cody Rhodes has openly addressed the speculation about his character possibly shifting to a heel role in WWE. While expressing openness to eventually making this change, Rhodes indicated he would prefer to remain a babyface for as long as possible but acknowledges the inevitable need for evolution in wrestling.
“I do think we’re probably at the tail end of it though. Because there’s only so much someone can like you. I would love to do it until the end of my career… At a certain point, they wanna see somebody else, I get that and that’s where you have to change as a character. I think you have a good solid year, maybe even three years, because I am not changing until I’m changed, if that makes any sense. If The Rock had it his way, I would’ve been changed already. He sees something maybe I don’t see and that’s a very smart individual, so, maybe I follow his lead.” —Cody Rhodes, WWE Superstar
Rhodes emphasized that while he wants to continue as a fan favorite, figures like The Rock see value in an earlier character shift. This highlights internal debates within company circles regarding Rhodes’s trajectory in WWE storylines.
WWE’s Struggle to Find a New Top Babyface
According to wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer, WWE faces a significant challenge if Rhodes turns heel. The primary concern is that the promotion lacks another full-time star with the same widespread appeal and stature as Rhodes in a protagonist role.
Meltzer pointed to the company’s limited options, referencing CM Punk as a possible candidate, though Punk’s age is seen as limiting, and Roman Reigns, who operates as a part-time talent. Other wrestlers, like Jey Uso, Randy Orton, and Gunther, were also mentioned, but none are currently viewed as suitable replacements to anchor the top face spot in WWE. While Gunther is considered a potential future babyface, he remains untested at that level.
Uncertain Future For WWE’s Leading Good Guy Role
The situation leaves WWE at a crossroads, with no immediate babyface ready to comfortably step into Cody Rhodes’s shoes if the much-discussed heel turn occurs. For now, there is no clear successor waiting in the wings, creating uncertainty about how the company will maintain fan engagement and storyline momentum moving forward. The next steps by WWE leadership remain to be seen, as the company weighs its options in this pivotal moment for character dynamics.
