Cody Rhodes recently addressed the notion of being called the “face of WWE,” expressing that the title does not reflect his view of the company’s dynamic. Ahead of the WWE SummerSlam event at MetLife Stadium, scheduled for August 2 and 3, Rhodes emphasized that the success of WWE relies on multiple key figures, not just one individual.
The spotlight for SummerSlam will shine on Rhodes as he faces John Cena in a rematch for the Undisputed WWE Championship, revisiting their memorable encounter from WrestleMania 41. Rhodes secured this opportunity by winning the King of the Ring tournament, overcoming Randy Orton in the finals.
Rhodes Reflects on Teamwork Over Individual Spotlight
Despite consistently being a top babyface and competing in four WrestleMania main events over the past three years, Rhodes prefers to focus on the shared contributions of other top talent rather than accepting a singular role as the company’s leading figure. He shared his perspective during an appearance on ESPN’s First Take.
“I really love the fact that anybody might say ‘face of the company,’ but I don’t consider it personally. I think of it more as a team. You’ve got Rhea Ripley, CM Punk, Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins. I think the moment I actually officially call myself the face of the company is probably the time I fade out. So, I like to think it’s more of a team effort that we’re doing here.” —Cody Rhodes
Rhodes’ remarks reaffirm his belief that the WWE’s strength comes from a collective group of wrestlers whose combined presence shapes the company’s identity, rather than from a single designated “face.”
Plans for Unique Match Types Highlight Rhodes’ Ambition
The fight at SummerSlam is set to be a Street Fight, allowing both competitors to use weapons and fight beyond the ring area, increasing the intensity and drama of the match. Rhodes has also expressed interest in exploring other uncommon match types that test skill and strategy in fresh ways.
In a recent interview, he detailed his fascination with more dangerous and psychologically charged contests, such as First Blood and Dog Collar matches, although he recognized practical limitations with some concepts.
“For me, I’d be interested in a First Blood match. The psychology in how you do it and wrestle is really fun. I loved First Blood matches. They left a lot of ways you can do it and keep guys whole. First Blood is one. Dog Collar, I don’t ever see happening because of the neck. Here is one that I’ve thought about. I don’t know what you’d name it because we have Street Fights. I don’t know what it would take, I don’t know what we would call it, I used to love when they would do the ropes in barbed wire. Dusty (Rhodes) and Tully (Blanchard). The danger. WWE has done the Inferno Match with the fire. The danger of getting close. It’s a competitor’s dream. That’s one I’ve thought about a lot. The barbed wire and putting it on the ropes.” —Cody Rhodes
Rhodes’ ideas draw inspiration from wrestling history, including the classic Dusty Rhodes and Tully Blanchard matches, and popular but rare match types that add an extra element of danger and spectacle.
Additional Storylines and Updates Leading Into SummerSlam
Beyond Rhodes’ upcoming showdown, WWE news has included notable developments related to major figures in the wrestling world. Triple H reportedly declined a significant request by Rhodes involving John Cena, concerned it might undermine Cena’s stature. Meanwhile, the WWE community mourned the death of legendary wrestler Hulk Hogan on July 24 at the age of 71.
Other SummerSlam angles have also unfolded, with reports confirming Seth Rollins was intended for a prominent role despite questions about his ability to win the world title given a recent injury. Stephanie McMahon has shared how practicing jiu-jitsu helped her cope following her departure from WWE, illustrating the personal challenges faced behind the scenes.
On the women’s side, WWE legend has indicated intent to challenge Becky Lynch for the Intercontinental Championship at the event, and AEW star Toni Storm is set to compete for the AEW Women’s World Championship at the upcoming Forbidden Door show.
Significance of Rhodes’ Approach and What Fans Can Expect
Cody Rhodes’ rejection of the “face of WWE” title and emphasis on teamwork underscore a shift toward recognizing wrestling as a multifaceted and collaborative environment. His choice to view the company’s success as shared among top stars like Rhea Ripley, CM Punk, Roman Reigns, and Seth Rollins signals respect for the diverse roster shaping WWE’s future.
With SummerSlam quickly approaching, Rhodes’ upcoming Street Fight against John Cena offers fans a highly anticipated rematch that blends athleticism and brutal storytelling. Furthermore, his ambition to introduce more unconventional matches hints at potential innovation in WWE’s entertainment style, keeping audiences engaged through physical and psychological intensity.
Viewers can watch John Cena defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Cody Rhodes from MetLife Stadium, streaming live at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT on Peacock in the United States and on Netflix for international audiences, marking a crucial moment for both competitors and the ongoing narrative of WWE’s evolving landscape.
