John Cena’s upcoming WWE title loss to Cody Rhodes appears more likely as SummerSlam approaches, with Cena’s retirement tour marking the end of his seventeenth World Championship reign. The Leader of the Cenation’s time as champion is set to conclude this year, opening the door for new contenders to step into the spotlight.
As Cena’s career winds down, conversations have intensified regarding who will become the next WWE Champion. Jim Cornette, veteran wrestling analyst, recently evaluated Cena’s current run and discussed likely challengers. Speaking about the much-anticipated Night of Champions match between CM Punk and Cena, Cornette doubted that Punk would claim the title from Cena, suggesting instead another rising star is destined for the role. He placed his confidence in Cody Rhodes, known as The American Nightmare, to be the competitor to dethrone Cena and restore balance to the championship picture.
“I think Cody has to be the one to win it back eventually, or else, boy, I think that did do damage. Right now, you know there’s still a chance to straighten this out”
—Jim Cornette, Wrestling Analyst
Cody Rhodes Secures Key Victory on SmackDown
On the latest episode of WWE SmackDown, Cody Rhodes took an important step towards challenging John Cena. The show featured two Fatal Fourway contests as part of the King of the Ring tournament, with the winners earning a place in the semi-finals. Randy Orton emerged victorious in his match earlier, while Cody Rhodes clinched his win later in the evening, advancing him to the next round.
This accomplishment significantly boosts Rhodes’ chances of facing Cena, since the tournament winner is granted a title shot at the upcoming SummerSlam event. WWE fans have pointed out Rhodes’ prior momentum, referencing when he successfully pinned Cena in a Tag Team match at Money in the Bank. If Rhodes ultimately claims victory in the tournament, he would challenge Cena at one of the most important events of the WWE calendar, setting the stage for a major title change.
Wider WWE Developments and Related Storylines
The focus on Cena and Rhodes unfolds amidst a broader context of shifting dynamics within WWE. Kurt Angle, a celebrated Hall of Famer, recently expressed optimism about WWE’s collaboration with TNA, hoping that this partnership addresses historic storylines and brings new energy to the current wrestling landscape. Roman Reigns’ influence continues across divisions, with new tag teams seeking inspiration from his many personas before their rise to stardom.
Simultaneously, other prominent names remain in the spotlight. Liv Morgan and Dominik Mysterio’s relationship meets new challenges on and off the screen. Tony Khan, at the helm of AEW, has intensified secrecy within his organization, creating intrigue among fans and insiders. WWE continues to deliver high-stakes storylines involving major events such as Money in the Bank and dramatic in-ring competitions, keeping viewers engaged week after week.
Significance of a Cena–Rhodes Title Match
The likelihood of John Cena’s WWE title loss to Cody Rhodes could symbolize a significant shift as the company’s most established star passes the torch to a new era. Cena’s retirement tour has spotlighted both nostalgia and the anticipation for what’s next, while Rhodes’ current momentum places him in a prime position to become the face of WWE’s future. As fans await the outcome of the King of the Ring tournament and look towards SummerSlam, the potential for an exciting milestone match grows stronger, leaving the WWE universe eager for what promises to be a defining showdown.
