Cody Rhodes remains sidelined from WWE action, raising serious concerns as the Clash in Paris event approaches on August 31. Fans and fellow wrestlers alike are uncertain if The American Nightmare will be able to participate in the high-profile event in France, given his ongoing absence.
The situation has been especially troubling for Drew McIntyre, who was set to challenge Rhodes for the WWE Championship. McIntyre has openly expressed his frustration with the lack of clarity surrounding Rhodes’ condition and WWE’s reluctance to provide details.
Current Status of Cody Rhodes and the Impact on WWE Clash in Paris
A recent injury sustained by Rhodes during an incident with McIntyre disrupted plans for the upcoming title match. In the weeks prior, McIntyre delivered a Claymore Kick that sent Rhodes crashing through the announce desk, an event that ultimately forced Rhodes out of action for an indefinite period.
Since then, McIntyre has repeatedly sought updates from broadcaster Joe Tessitore about Rhodes’ recovery, but his inquiries have been ignored. It later emerged that Rhodes took time off partly for commitments outside wrestling, including filming his role in the upcoming Street Fighter movie.
On his social media platform X, McIntyre posted a video of his workout routine paired with a candid admission about his actions toward Rhodes. He acknowledged crossing a line with his former partner and openly questioned WWE’s transparency regarding Rhodes’ condition, strongly suggesting Rhodes will not compete at Clash in Paris.
“It’s the last few weeks, chaos, fights back and forth to Europe, passport issues, kicking Cody’s stupid head through the table, and maybe I went a little too far, because I want that title. God knows when he’s gonna be back now, and WWE sure as hell not gonna reveal what was actually wrong with their Golden Boy. Enjoy that title you can, Cody, it’s a gift.”
—Drew McIntyre, WWE Superstar
Drew McIntyre’s Path Forward Before Clash in Paris
While Cody Rhodes remains unavailable, McIntyre has shifted focus toward his ongoing rivalry with Randy Orton. The two wrestlers share a history dating back to their feud in 2020, which resurfaced again this summer and included new participants like Jelly Roll and Logan Paul.
Most recently, on SmackDown, McIntyre was caught off guard when Orton ambushed him with an RKO, reigniting tension between the rivals. McIntyre has since challenged Orton to a direct confrontation during the upcoming go-home SmackDown episode prior to Clash in Paris, with a pointed warning:
“Don’t sneak up on him, or he would punch him in his ‘stupid’ face.”
—Drew McIntyre, WWE Superstar
These events indicate a likely third match in their series at Clash in Paris, especially with their previous contest at Saturday Night’s Main Event and SummerSlam receiving strong fan attention.
What the Future Holds for Rhodes, McIntyre, and WWE Title Dynamics
Cody Rhodes’s absence not only disrupts expected storylines but also creates uncertainty around WWE Championship plans for Clash in Paris. McIntyre’s candid remarks highlight the tension backstage and fans’ desires for transparency regarding Rhodes’s health.
With Rhodes engaged in projects beyond wrestling and a clear injury preventing his return, WWE will need to adjust its championship narrative. Meanwhile, McIntyre appears ready to channel his frustrations toward his renewed feud with Randy Orton, keeping the momentum alive heading into the major Paris event.
The outcome of Clash in Paris could reshape WWE’s competitive scene, with McIntyre eager to capitalize on a title opportunity possibly left vacant or defended by a stand-in. Fans will be watching closely to see how WWE navigates this challenging period and what the eventual return timeline for Rhodes might be.
