Cody Rhodes will make his first appearance since John Cena’s shocking betrayal when he steps into the ring this Friday on SmackDown in San Antonio. Michael Cole revealed on Raw that he had been in communication with Rhodes since the brutal assault at Elimination Chamber.
The anticipated appearance marks Rhodes’ first chance to respond to the events that unfolded following the Elimination Chamber match on Saturday. After Cena won the career-defining contest, Rhodes entered the ring to show respect to his future WrestleMania opponent.
The Rock and Travis Scott then made their way to the ring, with Rock demanding Rhodes surrender his “soul” to him. Rhodes firmly rejected the offer, initially prompting what appeared to be a supportive reaction from Cena.
The celebration quickly turned violent when Cena’s true allegiance was revealed. Following a signal from The Rock, Cena delivered a devastating low blow to Rhodes and launched a merciless assault that left the WrestleMania challenger bloodied in the ring.
Friday’s SmackDown will also feature the returns of Randy Orton and Jade Cargill. Orton seeks retribution against Kevin Owens following the piledriver that sidelined him, while Cargill has set her sights on confronting Naomi.
WWE has additionally scheduled a street fight between Chelsea Green and Michin for the broadcast. The show airs Friday night on FOX from the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio.