Cody Rhodes, former Undisputed WWE Champion, is currently navigating a challenging phase after losing his title to Drew McIntyre earlier this year. Known as the American Nightmare, Rhodes has been portrayed as a babyface since his return to WWE, but recent comments suggest he may be open to switching to a heel character in the future. The potential Cody Rhodes WWE heel turn hints at a dramatic change in his WWE persona.
During a recent episode of his podcast, What Do You Wanna Talk About?, Rhodes reflected on the complexities of maintaining a babyface role compared to the freedom offered by a heel character. He indicated that returning to a villainous role might bring an unexpected boost of enjoyment in his career.
“I think if we ever transition or if being a heel was to come back up, that might be something I could even need in my life and don’t realize it, just from the sheer, Let’s go out there and have some fun,” he said. – Cody Rhodes, WWE Star
Rhodes further elaborated on the pressures of being a babyface, contrasting it with the more relaxed pace and creative control he believes a heel persona offers, stating that sometimes being a villain lets a wrestler dictate the storyline flow with less pressure.
“I feel like there’s a lot of pressure and a challenge on the babyface spot. Whereas sometimes, in my experience at least, being a heel is a little bit, ‘Let’s just go have some fun. Nothing needs to happen until we’re ready for it to happen, we’ll get it when we get it.’ You can dictate that pace a little bit more too. Who knows though, it changes,” he said. – Cody Rhodes, WWE Star
The Connection Between Cody Rhodes’ Character and a Popular Villain
Fans and critics have drawn parallels between Rhodes’ WWE persona and the character Homelander from the TV series The Boys. Both figures share American superhero imagery and blond hair, yet embody complexity by appearing as heroes while exhibiting dark, villainous traits. This resemblance has sparked speculation about an impending “Homelander arc” for Rhodes, suggesting his heel turn in WWE might see him adopt a similarly ambiguous and menacing role.
Rhodes’ Upcoming WWE Matches and Road to Redemption
Following his title loss to Drew McIntyre, Rhodes faces further hurdles in reclaiming the championship. McIntyre secured a stipulation preventing Rhodes from an immediate rematch for the Undisputed WWE Championship, forcing Rhodes to seek alternative paths back to the top.
Undeterred, the Prodigal Son set his sights on the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble, but McIntyre’s interference thwarted his chances. Nevertheless, Rhodes continued advancing by winning a spot in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match, positioning himself once again as a contender for the championship.
The Potential Impact of a Heel Turn in WWE Storylines
If Rhodes opts for a WWE heel turn, it would mark a significant shift in his storytelling and character development. Given his talent and fanbase, this change could open new creative opportunities, allowing him to engage audiences with a fresh, intense persona. His candid reflections reveal an openness to breaking from his established image, which may invigorate his career and add intrigue to upcoming WWE events.
The possibility of this dramatic transformation comes at a critical time in Rhodes’ journey, as he aims to regain his status within WWE’s competitive championship landscape. Fans and observers will be watching closely to see how this narrative unfolds and what it means for Rhodes’ future in the company.
Cody Rhodes comments on why it's difficult being a babyface and explains the reason he might turn heel again at some point:
"I feel right now, I like the challenge of being a babyface, because it seems almost impossible some nights. Because it's easier to be cooler.
"I really… pic.twitter.com/3mpomlpzhR
— WrestleTalk (@WrestleTalk_TV) February 19, 2026
