As he prepares for a high-stakes defense against Drew McIntyre, two-time Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes is entering this latest chapter of his career with a different outlook. Appearing on ESPN’s Get Up, Rhodes explained that he is intent on enjoying this run more than his pressure-filled first reign.
He pointed to both professional satisfaction and personal milestones—most notably, the recent birth of his second daughter—as reasons for embracing a more measured perspective. “I think uh this time around I’m really just trying to enjoy it,” Rhodes said. “I mean, I spent in, you know, no matter how you look at our industry, the suspension of disbelief, I spent my whole career chasing this one. And to get it the first time, it just felt like such pressure was on. Now it’s just a good season of my life. Just had baby girl number two, the title in hand. I just want to enjoy it. Just have a good time, you know? Let’s just all have a good time.” (t/h TJR Wrestling)
That resolve will be tested this weekend at Wrestlepalooza, where Rhodes defends the championship against McIntyre—the same opponent who left him sidelined only weeks ago.
The personal edge of this rivalry was sharpened in August when McIntyre drove Rhodes through the announce table with a Claymore Kick, a storyline attack that explained his brief absence from television. Rhodes made his return on last week’s SmackDown, storming the ring to rescue Randy Orton from a post-match assault by McIntyre before issuing the official challenge for Indianapolis.
Rhodes’ journey to this defense has already been marked by defining moments. After ending Roman Reigns’ record 1,316-day reign at WrestleMania 40, his first run with the title ended abruptly at WrestleMania 41 at the hands of John Cena. He regained the championship from Cena in a Street Fight at SummerSlam, setting the stage for a personal battle with McIntyre that now shapes the direction of his second reign.