Cody Rhodes possible King of the Ring victory and WWE future is in sharp focus as he advances to the semifinals of the King of the Ring Tournament, putting himself one step closer to a potential showdown at SummerSlam PLE. Taking place as rivalries intensify in WWE, Rhodes’ path comes amidst big changes within his wrestling family, especially with brother Dustin Rhodes making his own statements about the future.
Dustin Rhodes Shuts Down WWE Return Talks
After departing WWE in 2016, Cody Rhodes built a reputation across the independent circuit and AEW before his highly anticipated return to WWE in April 2022. Meanwhile, his brother Dustin Rhodes, known for his iconic Goldust persona during several stints from 1995 to 2018, continues his career away from Stamford. Over the years, Dustin played multiple gimmick roles assigned by then-boss Vince McMahon, some carrying controversial themes, while Cody also endured a much-disliked turn as Stardust, a character which ultimately stalled his creative ambitions. One notable dropped storyline even involved actor Stephen Amell.
Recently, a fan sparked speculation on social media by posting a collage of Goldust, Stardust, and AAA’s Mr. Iguana, tagging Dustin Rhodes and suggesting a possible in-ring reunion alongside Cody Rhodes. Dustin addressed the speculation directly on Twitter:
“Goldust is retired. Sorry. Happy where I am at 💯”
—Dustin Rhodes, wrestler
Dustin Rhodes’ unequivocal statement makes clear he has no plans to return to WWE or reunite with Cody in the near future. This decision closes the door on any in-ring partnership between the brothers within WWE, leaving fans to wonder what’s next for Dustin as he continues working with AEW.
Cody Rhodes’ Tournament Journey and what Victory Could Mean
Cody Rhodes’ recent achievements in WWE have drawn new attention as he progresses through the King of the Ring Tournament. Last week on SmackDown, Rhodes overcame formidable opponents, including Andrade, Shinsuke Nakamura, and Damian Priest, earning a place in the highly anticipated semifinal round. The next RAW saw Jey Uso also secure a semifinal spot, setting up a high-stakes clash with Cody, the former Undisputed WWE Champion.
There is widespread speculation that a victory in the tournament could propel Cody Rhodes to a marquee title match against John Cena at the 2025 SummerSlam PLE. The foundations of this rivalry were laid last month, when Rhodes managed to pin John Cena during Saturday Night’s Main Event in a tag team bout alongside Logan Paul and Jey Uso. With the tournament nearing its climax, Rhodes’ next challenge is defeating Jey Uso to reach the finals at Night of Champions.
Should Cody Rhodes advance to the final in Saudi Arabia, he would encounter either Randy Orton or Sami Zayn—both formidable opponents and, at times, uneasy allies. The dynamic was heightened following a recent episode of RAW when Rhodes intervened to save Uso from a brutal attack by Seth Rollins. These shifting alliances are expected to add intensity to the semifinals and potential final, creating fresh storylines and conflicts as the tournament unfolds.
The Future for the Rhodes Brothers and WWE
Cody Rhodes’ possible King of the Ring victory and WWE future carry significant implications for the wrestling world. A win could set him up for a headline match against John Cena, shaping the top narrative for the upcoming SummerSlam PLE and possibly altering his trajectory within WWE. Simultaneously, with Dustin Rhodes firmly staying with AEW and retiring the Goldust character, the dream of a Rhodes brother reunion remains out of reach, at least within WWE.
As Cody moves closer to the King of the Ring crown, fans and fellow wrestlers like Jey Uso, Sami Zayn, John Cena, Randy Orton, and Seth Rollins are all watching closely, each playing their part in the intensity and emotion behind the tournament. With alliances and rivalries in constant flux, the next few weeks promise high-stakes drama and compelling possibilities for “The American Nightmare.”
