WWE SmackDown saw a surprising moment on September 12 when Cody Rhodes, the WWE Champion, returned to television after a brief hiatus. Rhodes reappeared in the final moments of the show, intervening to attack Drew McIntyre and rescue Randy Orton, setting the stage for further conflict. This marked Rhodes’ first WWE TV appearance since being sidelined by McIntyre on the August 8 episode.
Challenge Issued and Post-Show Address to Fans
The September 12 broadcast concluded with Rhodes directly challenging Drew McIntyre to a match at the upcoming Wrestlepalooza event, building anticipation for their clash. After the show went off air, Rhodes shared a video speaking to the live audience, expressing his emotions about returning to WWE programming and his recent life changes.
Cody Rhodes Shares Personal Reflections with the Audience
In the video, Rhodes told the crowd he was happy to be back home, reflecting on the important events he experienced recently, including the birth of his daughter, Leilani, and landing a role as Guile in the Street Fighter franchise. Addressing the audience, he said,
“Thank you guys very, very, very, very much.”
—Cody Rhodes, WWE Champion
The Significance of Rhodes’ Return for WWE and Fans
Rhodes’ WWE Smackdown Cody Rhodes Return reignites a fresh rivalry with McIntyre and adds intensity to the storyline leading into Wrestlepalooza 2025. With Rhodes combining his real-life milestones and professional achievements, his presence is expected to bring a renewed dynamic to WWE programming. Fans and commentators alike are watching closely to see how this renewed rivalry unfolds.
