According to PWInsider Elite, Kevin Owens garnered significant backstage acclaim for his performance in the ladder match against Cody Rhodes at Royal Rumble 2025. The match, which showcased Owens’ expertise in ladder-based contests, earned recognition from both fellow performers and producers.
The praise centered not only on Owens’ in-ring performance but also his contribution to the match’s overall structure. Rhodes and the producers credited Owens for the match’s successful execution, building on his extensive experience in ladder matches dating back to his Ring of Honor tenure against competitors like Sami Zayn, The Briscoes, Eddie Edwards, and Davey Richards.
HOLY SHIT KEVIN OWENS JUST DID A FISHERMAN BUSTER TO CODY RHODES THROUGH A LADDER #RoyalRumble
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) February 2, 2025
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WWE Reports Cody Rhodes Suffered Injury During Match
WWE reporter Jackie Redmond shared an update on Rhodes’ condition following the physically demanding contest.
The American Nightmare Cody Rhodes is dealing with multiple injuries. I can’t confirm the intensity or severity of the injuries, but what I can tell you is that they are bad enough that he will not be addressing the media in tonight’s press conference. In fact, his in-ring status may be up in the air as well. What I can confirm for you Tess, Cody Rhodes will still attend Friday Night SmackDown this week in Memphis. But considering this is WrestleMania season, this will be devastating news if Cody is unable to compete for any amount of time.
The match marked Owens’ third championship challenge against Rhodes since August.