Cody Rhodes made a startling comeback on WWE SmackDown by announcing a major match at Wrestlepalooza. The American Nightmare had been absent since the August 8 SmackDown episode, following a brutal Claymore attack by Drew McIntyre through the announce table.
During Rhodes’ absence, The Scottish Warrior kept alleging that WWE was concealing the champion’s condition, while commentators failed to update fans on Rhodes’ injury status. A heated interaction between McIntyre and Randy Orton also unfolded, leading to a short-term rivalry between the two former champions.
A Dramatic Rescue: Cody Rhodes Intervenes to Aid Randy Orton
In the latest episode, Randy Orton squared off against Drew McIntyre, exchanging momentum throughout the match. An official intervened just as Orton was about to deliver a punting move, creating a distraction that McIntyre exploited to land a Claymore Kick and secure the win.
After the match, McIntyre continued his assault on Orton, attempting to Claymore him through the announce table in a mirrored attack of what was done earlier to Rhodes. Unexpectedly, Cody Rhodes returned to the ring to protect his mentor, tackling McIntyre, striking him several times, and finishing with the signature Cody Cutter move.
Following McIntyre’s retreat, Rhodes took a microphone and declared his return along with his intent to face McIntyre at Wrestlepalooza.
“Drew McIntyre, the champ is back. We can do this dance. I’ll see you my friend at Wrestlepalooza.”
—Cody Rhodes, WWE Superstar
Context of the Ongoing Rivalries and Impact on WWE Storylines
Cody Rhodes’ return ends weeks of uncertainty regarding his status and injects fresh energy into SmackDown’s championship picture. The buildup to Wrestlepalooza will feature a high-stakes confrontation between Rhodes and McIntyre, two top-tier talents each with their own fanbase and legacy within WWE.
The surrounding storylines, including Randy Orton’s recent feud with McIntyre and Rhodes’ role as a mentor figure, add layers of personal rivalry and dramatic tension. Such developments are likely to captivate audiences and reestablish Rhodes as a central figure on SmackDown’s roster.
Additional WWE Updates
Alongside Rhodes’ comeback, WWE has confirmed WrestleMania 43 will take place in Saudi Arabia, marking the event’s continued global expansion. Meanwhile, AJ Styles faces contract uncertainty as his deal expires early next year, stirring speculation about a possible move to another promotion.
Other noteworthy news includes Brock Lesnar’s live Mishap on SmackDown, Queen Aminata addressing rumors about her relationship with an AEW wrestler, and the announcement of the date for the 2026 Royal Rumble event. Stephanie Vaquer has also publicly clarified details regarding her injury status, demonstrating the dynamic nature of WWE’s current landscape.
Looking Ahead: What Rhodes’ Return Means for WWE SmackDown
Cody Rhodes’ return and his forthcoming match at Wrestlepalooza signal a renewed focus on championship rivalries and star power within WWE SmackDown. This move aims to revive fan interest and deepen storylines as the company prepares for major upcoming events. Fans can expect heightened drama and intense competition as these narratives unfold in the weeks ahead.
