Cody Rhodes has recently opened up about the intense competition in WWE’s main event scene, especially in light of Roman Reigns’ return. After a thrilling victory at WrestleMania 40, where Rhodes defeated Reigns to capture the Undisputed WWE Championship, he finds himself in a unique yet challenging position as the face of the company.
In a post-show interview following his successful title defense at Bash In Berlin, Rhodes addressed the complexities of being at the top of the card. “I think if I’m speaking honestly, they’re not insecurities and they’re not concerns, but I’d be naive to not acknowledge the challenge,” he remarked. His words reflect a deep understanding of the pressures that come with holding the championship. Rhodes emphasized that he has prepared for this moment throughout his career, stating, “I love this, and maybe one of the things – I had a lifetime of experience to get ready for this – that’s the biggest challenge in front of me in terms of what’s the new task for me?”
The notion of being a “poster boy” for WWE is one that Rhodes cherishes. “That’s an amazing feeling. It’s special. It will end at some point. But I will certainly put up every bit of a fight,” he declared, recognizing that being in such a prestigious position comes with its own set of challenges. He is acutely aware that he is not alone in the spotlight; stars like John Cena, who is currently on his farewell run, and the enigmatic CM Punk are also competing for fan attention and support.
Rhodes’ rivalry with Roman Reigns has been particularly noteworthy. Their encounters have not only been thrilling for fans but have also fostered a competitive spirit between the two superstars. “We have pitted ourselves against each other not just at WrestleMania in the main event, but in every aspect behind the scenes too. And not in a dishonest way – in an honest way. Better man’s gonna win. And that’s a good problem to have,” Rhodes explained, highlighting the mutual respect that exists despite the fierce competition.
His reflections come at a crucial time for WWE, as the company navigates a crowded main event scene filled with talent eager to claim the spotlight. The dynamics between established stars and rising talent create an atmosphere ripe for compelling storytelling and thrilling matches. Rhodes is keenly aware of this landscape and sees it as a double-edged sword, one that benefits WWE as a whole. “It’s a great problem to have for WWE. And I think both the man you mentioned and myself, we like that,” he added, underscoring the excitement surrounding the current era of professional wrestling.
In addition to his rivalry with Reigns, Rhodes also touched on his relationship with Kevin Owens following their intense matchup at Bash In Berlin. While many might expect tensions to rise after such a fierce battle, Rhodes insisted that their friendship remains intact. “We went to war, but we are still friends, and we will be forever,” he affirmed, showcasing the camaraderie that can exist even amidst fierce competition.
As Cody Rhodes continues to navigate the challenges of being a champion in a crowded field, fans can expect exciting developments ahead. His journey is not just about holding a title; it’s about carving out a legacy in an ever-evolving landscape of professional wrestling. With the stakes higher than ever, the rivalry with Roman Reigns and the presence of other top stars promise thrilling moments for WWE fans worldwide.