Cody Rhodes has opened up about his decision to challenge Roman Reigns for the WWE Undisputed Championship at WrestleMania 40, despite speculation that The Rock would return to face him.
Cody Rhodes, a rising star in the WWE, has shed light on the behind-the-scenes negotiations that ultimately led to him facing Roman Reigns for the WWE Undisputed Championship at WrestleMania 40. In an interview on "The Pivot," Rhodes revealed his unwavering determination to headline the grandest stage in wrestling, despite rumors that Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson would challenge him.
Rhodes, who had earned a shot at the WWE title by winning the Royal Rumble, initially found himself in a precarious position. Speculation ran rampant that The Rock, a legendary figure in WWE, would return to challenge Reigns, possibly relegating Rhodes to a secondary role.
Cody Rhodes Reveals Why He Refused to Step Aside for The Rock at WrestleMania
However, Rhodes was adamant that he would not step aside for anyone. He had worked tirelessly for years to earn his spot at WrestleMania, and he refused to surrender it without a fight. According to Rhodes, The Rock understood his unwavering resolve.
"Where we could butt heads is in the idea that you could just come back in the midst of a story that was taking place and, just because you’re The Rock, you can step into the starting lineup and take WrestleMania for yourself," Rhodes explained. "A lot of people will say, ‘He’s The Rock, he can do whatever he wants.’ I even saw this really fun podcast with two wrestling heads talking back and forth, and they said, ‘I’m sure Cody’s fine stepping aside for WrestleMania and then doing it later in the year.’ In my mind, I’m thinking, that’s insane. That’s the Super Bowl for what we do."
Cody Rhodes Reveals Why He Refused to Step Aside for The Rock at WrestleMania
Rhodes's determination paid off when he was booked to challenge Reigns at WrestleMania. In a thrilling match on Night 2, Rhodes emerged victorious, capturing the WWE Undisputed Championship. The victory was a culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and a testament to Rhodes's belief in himself.
Since his victory at WrestleMania, Rhodes has continued to defend his title against numerous challengers. He has also found himself embroiled in a feud with The Bloodline, the dominant faction led by Reigns. Despite the challenges he faces, Rhodes remains confident in his abilities and is determined to prove that he is a worthy champion.
Cody Rhodes Reveals Why He Refused to Step Aside for The Rock at WrestleMania
Rhodes's rise to the top of WWE is a testament to his talent, hard work, and unwavering determination. He has refused to be sidelined or overshadowed by others, and has instead forged his own path to stardom. As he continues his journey in WWE, Rhodes is sure to face new challenges and obstacles, but he is confident that he has what it takes to overcome them and remain at the pinnacle of the wrestling world.
