WWE Champion Cody Rhodes shared his candid reflections on his bouts with John Cena at WrestleMania 41 and SummerSlam 2025, highlighting how he views their John Cena WrestleMania Match as part of a broader story. These two matches took place on major WWE events and drew contrasting reactions from fans and critics alike.
Rhodes and Cena faced off during the second night’s main event at WrestleMania, a match that received mixed reviews at the time. Their rematch at SummerSlam later that year was celebrated as one of the most outstanding matches, especially notable during Cena’s farewell run.
How Rhodes Viewed the WrestleMania and SummerSlam Matches as One
While appearing on the Pat McAfee Show, Rhodes described the SummerSlam encounter as a direct continuation of their WrestleMania match, suggesting they should be considered together rather than separately. He explained that the initial WrestleMania bout set the stage for what was to come.
He stated,
“I hate saying this, but part of the beauty of how great that match is, was the lack of a match that really took place at WrestleMania in a sense.”
Rhodes elaborated,
“Sometimes the long game is the game. I treat them as they were the same match, and then we just got to use all the bells and whistles.”
When asked by McAfee whether he meant the two matches were like two halves of one whole, Rhodes affirmed,
“Yeah, exactly. I don’t wanna quote Mr Heyman here, but the chapters, the innings, all those things. It’s a long game.”
Understanding the Build and Impact of These Matches
The narrative Cody Rhodes presents suggests a strategic buildup where the WrestleMania match functioned as a foundational chapter leading into the highly acclaimed SummerSlam rematch. This approach offers fans a fresh perspective on both contests, framing them as parts of an extended storyline rather than isolated events.
By viewing the matches as interconnected, Rhodes highlights the patience and storytelling involved in professional wrestling, especially at high-profile events like WrestleMania and SummerSlam. This context helps explain why the SummerSlam bout was so well received as it brought a satisfying climax to their rivalry.
What Fans Can Expect Moving Forward
With Cody Rhodes reflecting on the importance of long-term storytelling, fans may anticipate that future WWE events will continue to emphasize layered match narratives for greater emotional payoff. The thoughtful framing of the John Cena WrestleMania Match and SummerSlam rematch establishes a precedent for how rivalries can be developed over time.
As Rhodes and Cena’s encounters remain memorable highlights of recent WWE history, the emphasis on narrative depth could influence how other wrestlers approach their matchups in upcoming WWE programming.
