The recent developments on WWE SmackDown have shaken the wrestling world, as Cody Rhodes lost his Undisputed Championship to Drew McIntyre after a dramatic interference by Jacob Fatu in the Three Stages of Hell match. As speculation builds surrounding Cody Rhodes Royal Rumble 2026, fans and experts are questioning the direction the champion and WWE team will take after this dramatic title change.
Unexpected Title Loss Leaves Fans Puzzled
The abrupt defeat of Cody Rhodes at the hands of Drew McIntyre has generated considerable discussion within the WWE community. Triple H and the team now have the task of steering the story for both the new champion and the former titleholder, particularly as the road to Royal Rumble 2026 begins. This surprising twist has left fans wondering about Rhodes’ next move and what role he might play in future WWE storylines.
Three Possible Paths for Cody Rhodes After Losing the Championship
With the championship belt no longer on his shoulder, Cody Rhodes faces a crossroads in his WWE journey. Here are three possible directions Rhodes might take after his defeat to The Scottish Warrior on Friday Night SmackDown:
Possible Break from WWE Competition
Cody Rhodes has enjoyed a prominent tenure as a two-time Undisputed Champion, standing out as one of WWE’s top performers over the past two years. Now, after relinquishing the title to Drew McIntyre, Rhodes might seize the opportunity to take a hiatus from active competition. With the pressures of championship reign behind him, this pause could offer Rhodes valuable time to recover and reflect on his next steps in the industry.
A Shocking Comeback at Royal Rumble 2026
Rhodes’ title loss may serve as the perfect set-up for a compelling redemption arc at this year’s WrestleMania. There is growing speculation that Rhodes, known as The American Nightmare, could surprise audiences by making an unexpected return at the men’s WWE Royal Rumble 2026 match. If he enters and claims victory in the Rumble for a third time, it would cement his legacy and set a record in WWE history, sparking excitement among fans and the creative team alike.
A Potential Heel Turn for The American Nightmare
WWE followers and industry experts have long debated the possibility of Cody Rhodes embracing a villainous persona. The recent championship loss, following interference by Jacob Fatu, might intensify Rhodes’ frustration and encourage a significant shift in his character. A transition to a heel role could introduce a new layer to his personality and offer fresh storytelling possibilities as WrestleMania approaches. Such a move would present the creative team with a dynamic angle to shape upcoming matchups and events.
What Lies Ahead for Cody Rhodes and WWE?
As WWE and its creative minds plan the next chapter for Cody Rhodes, the aftermath of his title loss has set the stage for dramatic possibilities in the months leading to The Show of Shows. Whether he steps away for a period, makes a history-making Royal Rumble comeback, or adopts a heel persona, Rhodes’ next move is sure to capture the attention of fans, experts, and champions across the industry.
