During the February 13, 2026 episode of WWE SmackDown, Cody Rhodes sparked controversy by referencing an inside joke related to his nickname “Cody Raheem Rhodes,” which has circulated among wrestling fans. The comment came amid discussions about the upcoming CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns match at WrestleMania 42 and quickly drew attention for its coincidental timing during Black History Month.
This playful nod to fan memes, which Rhodes has embraced in the past, was initially taken lightly by his wife Brandi Rhodes and fellow wrestlers including The Usos and Oba Femi. However, an incident involving a fan sign online escalated the situation, shifting public sentiment considerably.
“I heard that it was gonna be a you know what measuring contest [Reigns vs Punk]. Well they’re both glad I’m not in it because I didn’t get the nickname Raheem for no reason.” Cody Rhodes on SmackDown.
Fan Sign Amplifies Backlash Amid Black History Month Observance
A fan sign reading
“Happy Black Cody ‘Raheem’ Rhodes History Month”
was shared widely on social media, drawing sharp criticism. Many viewed the sign and the joke as inappropriate, especially given the significance of Black History Month. The joke, once seen as lighthearted wrestling banter, became a point of tension and sparked accusations of insensitivity.
“this has got to stop … pic.twitter.com/QYpXdUq4C4” — makayla 8 (@speedupris)
Community Responses Highlight Frustration and Racial Concerns
Following the social media reaction, numerous fans condemned what they described as white wrestling fans enabling this racialized joke. Critics emphasized that the humor trivialized a serious cultural celebration and called out Cody Rhodes and his supporters for perpetuating it.
“white people the ones perpetuating this ‘joke’ until this stops and black people get the recognition and support they deserve and have been historically denied, i’m fully calling cody rhodes, and whoever co-signs this joke racist. Black Wrestling Fans were told that we were doing too much and it’s just a joke btw , now look. for all the Cody fans that were defending that line, Do you see the problem now??? Corny mfs always gonna ruin some s**t. The joke(s) were already close to the edge. Leave it to pple like this to push it over the edge lol”
Implications for Wrestling Fandom and Cultural Sensitivity
The incident has amplified ongoing conversations about racial issues within wrestling communities, highlighting the challenges of balancing fan humor with respect for important cultural observances. Fans and commentators alike are questioning how inside jokes can unintentionally perpetuate stereotypes or offend marginalized groups during sensitive times.
As Black History Month continues, the backlash against the Raheem joke serves as a reminder of the importance of mindful engagement in fandoms, especially when humor intersects with racial identity. It remains to be seen how WWE and its talent will address these concerns moving forward.
Meanwhile, industry insiders like Paul Heyman have issued warnings to top wrestlers to maintain professionalism and avoid controversies that could damage their reputations and the organization’s image.
https://twitter.com/TheBrandiRhodes/status/2019941830943498270
RAHEEM😂
— The Usos (@WWEUsos) February 7, 2026
this has got to stop … pic.twitter.com/QYpXdUq4C4
— makayla 8 (@speedupris) February 15, 2026
