Cody Rhodes’ return as Undisputed WWE Champion may already have a direction. On his podcast, Sam Roberts detailed a potential plan that ties his comeback to a match between Randy Orton and Drew McIntyre.
Roberts suggested two scenarios. In one, Rhodes would side with Orton during the bout. In the other, he would storm the ring to attack McIntyre, forcing a no-contest. Because the contest would not be for the title, Roberts argued, this would avoid conflict between Rhodes and Orton.
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A third wrinkle involves Logan Paul. Roberts speculated that Paul could assist McIntyre during the match, creating the perfect opening for Rhodes to make his move.
I think Randy versus Drew will be the match when Cody returns.
The reasoning behind this plan links directly to Rhodes’ current absence. He was written off television after McIntyre hit him with a Claymore through the announce table on SmackDown. While presented on-screen as an injury, the time away was arranged to allow Rhodes to film the upcoming Street Fighter movie, something McIntyre has mocked repeatedly in promos.
This is Rhodes’ second reign as Undisputed Champion, which began when he defeated John Cena at SummerSlam. The win drew mixed reactions, with sections of the crowd booing him after Cena’s loss. Similar pushback surfaced when Roman Reigns referenced Rhodes on Raw, and former WWE employee Tommy Carlucci went as far as to say:
I would have Rhodes lose the title to [McIntyre], because it’s Drew’s turn.
Despite this criticism, Rhodes has stated he has no interest in turning heel. Current expectations remain that he will defend the championship against McIntyre at Wrestlepalooza in September.
