Cody Rhodes, the current Undisputed WWE Champion, recently disclosed that he pitched an idea to bring back a legendary WWE character as part of his return, but the concept was ultimately rejected. Rhodes, who is embroiled in a high-profile feud with Drew McIntyre on SmackDown, wanted to add a nostalgic element to a major upcoming event.
During an episode of his podcast, What Do You Wanna Talk About?, guest Bruce Pritchard and Rhodes explored various issues. Rhodes revealed that he had asked Pritchard to appear as Brother Love to present him with the Winged Eagle title at Saturday Night’s Main Event. Despite his enthusiasm, the idea did not receive approval.
“I knew Brother Love wasn’t coming back when I asked you to be Brother Love to present me with the Winged Eagle Title. I wanted it. I think I said as if it was a joke, and you’re like, ‘Haha, no’. I wanted Brother Love in the ring going into Saturday Night’s Main Event with the Winged Eagle Title,” said Rhodes.
This rejected plan was meant to enhance the drama around Rhodes’ championship status in the weeks leading up to a pivotal match.
Ongoing Feud Heightens Tensions on SmackDown
The rivalry between Rhodes and Drew McIntyre intensified during the August 8 episode of SmackDown when McIntyre attacked Rhodes and delivered a Claymore Kick, sending the champion crashing through the announce table. This event has fueled speculation about their next encounter.
Fans are anticipating a showdown between Rhodes and McIntyre at Wrestlepalooza, scheduled for September 20, where the Undisputed WWE Championship is expected to be on the line. This match is drawing attention as McIntyre positions himself to dethrone Rhodes.
McIntyre Calls for Change as WWE Champion
Drew McIntyre has openly expressed his desire to claim the Undisputed WWE Championship from Rhodes, signaling a shift in WWE’s dynamic. In a recent interview with Adam Glyn on Adam’s Apple, McIntyre emphasized that WWE is undergoing major transformations with billion-dollar business deals but needs a fresh face to lead.
“The winds of change are blowing through WWE. All these big deals, these billion-dollar deals, I think we need a new champion. We’re sick of the reruns, the Cody reruns. Let’s get Drew McIntyre front and center finally,” McIntyre said.
McIntyre’s remarks underscore his eagerness to take center stage and become the new champion, reflecting an escalating sense of urgency and tension surrounding the title.
Recent Championship Changes and Upcoming Matches
Cody Rhodes, who briefly lost the Undisputed WWE Championship to John Cena at WrestleMania 41’s second night, reclaimed the title at SummerSlam 2025. This victory was shadowed by Brock Lesnar’s surprise return, when he attacked Cena after his loss to Rhodes. Lesnar and Cena’s ongoing storyline suggests another high-stakes match at Wrestlepalooza.
These intertwined rivalries highlight a turbulent period for WWE’s top-tier titles, with multiple key figures competing to secure their place as the face of the company.
