38-year-old star returning as heel at WWE Survivor Series to challenge Cody Rhodes?

WWE’s internal tensions continue to rise as Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes faces resistance from SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis regarding Kevin Owens’ status. During SmackDown, Rhodes sought a confrontation with Owens but was met by Aldis instead.

The SmackDown GM maintained his stance that Owens would remain banned from appearances until his recent actions against Randy Orton are addressed internally. Rhodes expressed frustration at this decision, leading to a heated exchange where he referenced Aldis’ past as a competitor.

This interaction has sparked speculation about Aldis potentially stepping into the rings at Survivor Series. The former TNA World Heavyweight Champion, who joined WWE as a backstage producer in August 2023 before becoming SmackDown’s GM, has yet to compete in WWE.

While initial rumors suggested a bout between Aldis and RAW GM Adam Pearce at Survivor Series, that direction wasn’t pursued. Now, circumstances might lead to Aldis making his WWE in-ring debut against Rhodes, possibly with the Undisputed WWE Championship at stake.

Kevin Owens’ Ban Creates Tension on SmackDown

The situation intensified when Aldis addressed the WWE Universe about Owens’ status. He emphasized the importance of maintaining order, stating that allowing Owens to appear would send the wrong message to the locker room.

Rhodes attempted to appeal to Aldis’ background as a competitor, asking him to consider the situation from a different perspective. However, the SmackDown GM remained firm in his decision, leading Rhodes to warn that he wouldn’t wait long for resolution.