Cody Rhodes, a prominent WWE figure, spoke about the possibility of a heel turn during a recent appearance on ESPN’s First Take, ahead of his SummerSlam match against John Cena. While Rhodes does not expect to adopt a villainous role soon, he outlined how he might approach such a shift, describing a darker version of himself without his usual entrance music or grand stage presence.
What Cody Rhodes Imagines for a Possible Heel Character
Rhodes suggested that if he ever became a heel, he would strip away many elements fans associate with him. Rejecting the typical vibrant persona, he envisions eliminating his entrance music and the elaborate entrance itself, aiming for a more sinister and controversial image. However, he emphasized uncertainty about if or when this change could happen.
You know, I always like to say in what we do, never say never. The more you’re in this, it’s probably really likely,
Cody Rhodes said.
I think my version of a heel is just way too, I don’t know… I wouldn’t have music. The song would go away, the entrance would go away. I’d try to get myself cancelled. I don’t know if it would even translate. Never say never, but I don’t see it happening any time soon.
Past Reflections on Adopting a Villainous Persona
Earlier, during a conversation with Kay Adams at Fanatics Fest, Rhodes opened up about the challenges of constantly playing the good guy. He indicated that his time as a beloved character may be nearing its end, as he senses a limit to how long audiences will continuously cheer for the same persona.
I do think we’re probably at the tail end of it, though. Because there’s only so much someone can like you,
he said.
I’d love to do it until the end of my career, but there’s only so much [I can do before it gets tired],
Rhodes explained.
‘Oh, we do his ‘Waoh!’ and we cheer for him.’ At a certain point, they want to see someone else, and I get that. And that’s where I will have to change as a character.
Fan Discussions and Rhodes’ Hesitation on Turning Heel
Most conversations about Cody Rhodes WWE heel turn come from fans on social media, especially on platforms like X (formerly Twitter). In another recent interview with Busted Open Radio, Rhodes acknowledged the deep and continuing debate around the idea but maintained his uncertainty about ever embracing the darker side in WWE.
One thing I noticed about that (heel turn conversation), it only really exists on X — is that — and it’s deep, the discussion. It’s a deep discussion and I don’t even — yeah, you never say never in wrestling but, plenty of people in wrestling have got the capacity for the light and the dark but, I don’t know. I don’t know if we’re on that road in the time I have left within my time in wrestling. Who knows though?… You never wanna say never.
Potential Impact of a Heel Turn on Rhodes’ Career Trajectory
Cody Rhodes’ hesitancy to take a heel turn highlights a tension common among wrestlers who have built a strong connection with fans as heroes. A heel turn would mark a significant shift in his character and storytelling approach, possibly refreshing his role in WWE but also risking alienation. With his history involving a high-profile rivalry against John Cena, who turned heel on him, Rhodes’ potential villainous turn could reinvigorate his narrative arc.
If Rhodes were to embrace this darker path, it would likely influence WWE’s creative direction for him and affect fan engagement. However, given his repeated statements that such a turn is unlikely in the near future, this possibility remains speculative. Fans and analysts will continue to watch closely as his career progresses and storylines evolve.
