Cody Rhodes insists that two matches against Roman Reigns do not mark the end of their in-ring saga, expressing interest in a third encounter. In a recent discussion with Sports Illustrated, Rhodes explained that the rivalry feels unfinished and believes a third match would hold significant meaning for wrestling fans worldwide.
Rhodes stated,
“That’s probably a very hard match to have happen, but I can see it being very significant in happening again. (For the fans) you can’t just have two. We’re splitting. So, that third exists. I’m certainly not adverse to it. I’m not sure what his outlook on it is. We’re different than we were. I’m not adverse to it.”
—Cody Rhodes
The two stars have met twice in singles bouts, with each wrestler securing one victory. Their first clash took place at WWE WrestleMania 39, where Reigns retained his championship with assistance from Solo Sikoa. One year later, Rhodes prevailed at WrestleMania 40, ending Reigns’ 1,316-day title reign in a landmark match featuring interference from John Cena, The Undertaker, and Seth Rollins.
Though they have yet to face each other again in a singles match since, Rhodes and Reigns joined forces at WWE Bad Blood to battle Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fatu. Rumors of a third match have persisted, with Paul Heyman recently confirming that discussions about a trilogy bout did occur ahead of WWE WrestleMania 41.
Rhodes Highlights WWE’s Emerging Talent Pool
Beyond his rivalry with Reigns, Cody Rhodes recently spoke to The Bill Simmons Podcast about promising new stars rising within WWE’s ranks. He singled out Dominik Mysterio as a future standout performer, praising his connection with audiences and the strong foundation laid by his father.
Rhodes remarked,
“Dominik Mysterio will end up becoming a massive star; he already is. But Dom has a connection with the audience, and the work is coming. It’s this kind of reverse, the work is coming. He also works with people that are really his father is the greatest example. When you’re around people like that, you learn things that no one can teach you, right? And other than someone who is I don’t want to use the over
word but someone who’s extremely popular, someone who’s over… So Dom is someone definitely to look out for in terms of specialness.”
In addition to Mysterio, Rhodes identified several contenders from WWE’s NXT brand, including Oba, Ricky Starks, and Ethan Page, emphasizing that the organization has a steady flow of talent prepared to step up if needed.
He added,
“I mean, if you look at NXT, Oba, who’s coming up. Oba’s really special. Ricky Starks, Ethan Page, he’s another one that, if you meet Ethan Page, he could be 50 or he could be 25. He’s got a really unbelievable skill set. That’s what I like the most about WWE currently, if someone was to move or go, we’ve got people ready. We’ve got people ready.”
—Cody Rhodes
What a Third Match Could Mean for WWE Storytelling
The possibility of a third singles match between Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns carries considerable weight for WWE’s storytelling and fan engagement. Their previous contests have been intensely competitive, punctuated by dramatic alliances and unforgettable moments, which have heightened anticipation for a decisive final showdown.
A third match could not only serve as the culmination of one of WWE’s most compelling feuds in recent years but also elevate both men’s legacies. The current urgency expressed by Rhodes reflects a broader desire to deliver fresh and meaningful narratives to audiences eager for high-stakes confrontations.
With Paul Heyman confirming that plans for such a match have been under consideration and Rhodes himself ready to embrace this challenge, fans may see the trilogy materialize sooner than expected, setting the stage for another historic moment in WWE history.
