This Friday in Cincinnati, Ohio, Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton will team up on WWE SmackDown to face two challengers from RAW, marking a surprising alliance between the American Nightmare and the Viper. This partnership arrives amid mounting tension as Rhodes prepares for a high-profile showdown at Crown Jewel, pushing the spotlight onto their cooperation and the stakes involved.
The Complex Dynamics Behind Rhodes and Orton’s Partnership
Recent weeks have seen Cody Rhodes targeted by The Vision, acting on behalf of WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins. Orton’s intervention to save Rhodes from defeat has raised questions about his intentions, blurring the lines between ally and adversary. The uncertain nature of their partnership suggests either a temporary alliance of convenience or a more calculated plan as the Crown Jewel event approaches.
SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis recognized these inter-brand disputes and contacted RAW GM Adam Pearce. Following their discussion, they sanctioned a tag team match featuring RAW’s top competitors against Rhodes and Orton, deepening the rivalry not only between SmackDown and RAW but also among the company’s leading figures.
SMACKDOWN NEWS 🚨@RealNickAldis has huge news for THIS FRIDAY… @CodyRhodes & @RandyOrton will team up to take on The Vision’s @bronbreakkerwwe & @BRONSONISHERE! pic.twitter.com/zzjN4v3y6x
— WWE (@WWE) September 30, 2025
Risks and Uncertainties for Cody Rhodes as Crown Jewel Nears
Randy Orton’s unpredictable nature means Cody Rhodes must remain cautious about whether their alliance will hold. Their shared past hints at possible ulterior motives from Orton, possibly intending to undermine Rhodes before his anticipated clash with Seth Rollins at Crown Jewel. Each interaction could conceal hidden agendas, making every moment critical.
If Rhodes and Orton demonstrate effective teamwork, they could pose a formidable threat to Rollins’s WWE Championship reign. However, any hesitation or perceived betrayal could leave Rhodes exposed at a crucial time. Fans watching SmackDown should pay close attention to Orton’s behavior for clues about where his true loyalty lies during this intense buildup.
The Significance of This Bout for the Road to Crown Jewel
This cross-brand tag team match elevates the tension between SmackDown and RAW and sets the tone for the final weeks before Crown Jewel. As Rhodes and Orton face off against RAW’s stalwarts in Cincinnati, the outcome will shape perceptions heading into the high-stakes event, leaving the WWE Universe to wonder which side will emerge stronger and more prepared for the championship battle ahead.
SMACKDOWN NEWS 🚨@RealNickAldis has huge news for THIS FRIDAY… @CodyRhodes & @RandyOrton will team up to take on The Vision’s @bronbreakkerwwe & @BRONSONISHERE! pic.twitter.com/zzjN4v3y6x
— WWE (@WWE) September 30, 2025
