Outside of Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes has been a major driving force behind WWE’s recent surge in popularity, delivering value since his return. His match against Reigns at WrestleMania 40 marked a peak moment for fan satisfaction, reminiscent of WWE’s Attitude Era. Yet despite being a model lead babyface, Rhodes currently represents a creative obstacle in WWE’s storytelling as WrestleMania approaches. Having been central to the WWE Championship picture for over two years, WWE now faces the challenge of introducing fresh contenders without displacing Rhodes prematurely.
Rhodes lost the WWE Championship to Drew McIntyre early this year in a surprising upset aided by rising star Jacob Fatu. WWE wisely included a contract clause preventing Rhodes from demanding an immediate rematch, allowing McIntyre to pursue rivalries with different opponents, like Sami Zayn at the Royal Rumble. However, Rhodes has not yet transitioned to a new, compelling storyline, keeping him entangled with McIntyre and Fatu in a protracted feud.
Ongoing Feud Among Rhodes, McIntyre, and Fatu
Television programming continues to feature frequent confrontations and brawls involving Rhodes, McIntyre, and Fatu, fueling speculation that WrestleMania 42 will see these three clash in a triple threat match. While McIntyre is expected to retain the title, fans are not clamoring to see the belt return to Rhodes, and Jacob Fatu, despite his talent, lacks the full development necessary for WWE’s top championship. Many wrestling followers remain lukewarm about this anticipated match, suggesting it may lack the excitement and narrative urgency needed for a WrestleMania main event.
“yeah, that should be kind of fun.”
A Strategic Shift: Elevating Storylines Beyond the Title Picture
Instead of slotting Rhodes back into a title match, WWE should consider pivoting his focus toward a separate, engaging feud with Jacob Fatu. Although this means Rhodes would compete in a non-title match at WrestleMania, this shift is crucial for revitalizing his character and generating genuine audience interest. Rhodes has previously proven he can thrive without holding a championship, as seen in his partnership and rivalry with Seth Rollins, demonstrating strong mic work and storytelling potential.
A rivalry where Fatu targets Rhodes for being outdated and uninteresting, while Rhodes counters by questioning Fatu’s achievements and status as a main event player, could create a fresh, heated narrative to capture fans’ attention.
Freeing Drew McIntyre to Spotlight LA Knight
This adjustment would allow Drew McIntyre to seek out new contenders for the WWE Championship. The most obvious candidate to elevate in this context is LA Knight, a performer with a natural babyface appeal who fans have long wanted to see advance. Knight has struggled to break through despite consistent effort, and positioning him against McIntyre—a natural heel—could spark a memorable interpersonal feud.
The contrast between Knight’s perseverance and McIntyre’s antagonism could provide fertile ground for compelling promos and in-ring storytelling, potentially resulting in moments that resonate with audiences for years.
Elimination Chamber as a Launchpad for New Rivalries
WWE could set this all in motion by featuring Rhodes, Jacob Fatu, and LA Knight in the upcoming Elimination Chamber event. If Rhodes and Fatu engage in mutual sabotage during the match, it would intensify their feud leading into WrestleMania. Meanwhile, LA Knight could seize the opportunity to dominate the Chamber, delivering a passionate “it’s finally my time” promo. Such a scenario would ignite fan enthusiasm and highlight new rivalries simultaneously.
Challenging Conventional WrestleMania Booking Wisdom
Traditionally, WWE places its biggest stars in the main event at WrestleMania to attract casual viewers and maximize ticket sales. However, the best way to sell the event is by promoting storylines that genuinely engage wrestling fans. The triple threat between Reigns, McIntyre, and Fatu is unlikely to entice new viewers, whereas a spotlight on LA Knight breaking through would generate genuine excitement.
Furthermore, developing Rhodes and Fatu’s feud over time could eventually build momentum strong enough to draw fans specifically eager to witness their clash. WWE has a clear path forward: focus on stories that resonate rather than simply pushing established names at the top.
The Opportunity Ahead for WWE and Cody Rhodes
The coming months offer WWE a chance to recalibrate its WrestleMania lineup by diversifying storylines and spotlighting emerging talent like LA Knight alongside established figures such as Rhodes and McIntyre. Allowing Rhodes to pursue a fresh, character-driven feud with Fatu while McIntyre battles Knight could create multiple captivating arcs, elevating overall fan engagement and strengthening the product heading into WrestleMania 42.
The direction is clear and within reach—WWE just needs to take the bold step forward.
