Cody Rhodes uses Kimura Lock on RAW during his match with Jey Uso in the WWE King of the Ring tournament finals, stirring discussion among fans and wrestling insiders. This unexpected move not only contributed to Rhodes’s victory, but also sparked speculation about its significance in the current WWE landscape.
Cody Rhodes Advances in King of the Ring After Intense Battle
Cody Rhodes secured a win over Jey Uso to reach the final round of the 2025 WWE King of the Ring tournament. During the match, Rhodes implemented the Kimura Lock against Jey Uso, drawing widespread attention online due to the move’s history within WWE. After the contest, the former World Heavyweight Champion congratulated Rhodes and recognized his performance.
The Origins of the Kimura Lock and Its WWE Significance
The Kimura Lock is best known as the finishing submission of Brock Lesnar, often referred to as The Beast Incarnate. Its use by Cody Rhodes immediately drew parallels between the two competitors and fueled speculation about why Rhodes chose this signature maneuver during such a crucial bout.
Potential Reasons for Cody Rhodes’ Decision
There are several reasons being discussed regarding why Cody Rhodes might have used Brock Lesnar’s famous move during Monday Night RAW. Firstly, with Brock Lesnar absent from WWE since his defeat to Cody at SummerSlam 2023, the move could be a deliberate signal connected to Lesnar’s rumored return. By utilizing the Kimura Lock, Rhodes may be setting the stage for Lesnar’s comeback and generating heightened anticipation among the WWE fanbase.
Secondly, in professional wrestling culture, stars sometimes pay tribute to their predecessors or contemporaries by executing their signature moves. By employing the Kimura Lock, Rhodes may be honoring Lesnar, much like how Jey Uso incorporates techniques associated with Rikishi or how Dominik Mysterio honors Eddie Guerrero by performing the Three Amigos maneuver. Such gestures acknowledge the influence and legacy of respected figures in the wrestling world.
Lastly, it appears this was not the first time Rhodes has incorporated the Kimura Lock into his matches. He previously applied the move to AJ Styles at WWE Backlash France, which surprised many observers. While his primary finishing technique remains the Cross Rhodes, which he famously used to end Roman Reigns’ notable championship run, Cody’s decision to revisit the Kimura Lock suggests it could become a regular element of his wrestling repertoire.
Broader Implications for WWE and Fan Expectations
The use of the Kimura Lock by Cody Rhodes on RAW extends beyond a single victory, fueling speculation about potential storylines and rivalries. The move has reignited conversations about Brock Lesnar’s possible return and shown how veteran inspirations can shape a current champion’s style. As Rhodes progresses in the King of the Ring tournament and continues to evolve his arsenal, fans and commentators will be watching closely for further surprises and homages in his matches.
