Cody Rhodes has directly addressed the growing online speculation about a potential heel turn in WWE, clarifying his current perspective on the matter. Following his own recent comments that he might be on the “tail end” of his run as a top babyface, Rhodes provided more context during an appearance on Busted Open Radio.
While acknowledging the depth of the discussion, particularly on social media, Rhodes confirmed he is unaware of any specific company plans to alter his character’s direction.
“One thing I noticed about that (heel turn conversation), it only really exists on X – is that – and it’s deep, the discussion. It’s a deep discussion and I don’t even – yeah, you never say never in wrestling but, plenty of people in wrestling have got the capacity for the light and the dark but, I don’t know. I don’t know if we’re on that road in the time I have left within my time in wrestling. Who knows though?… You never wanna say never.”
This clarification comes as Rhodes is deeply involved in a redemption storyline aimed at reclaiming the Undisputed WWE Championship. His path was solidified at Night of Champions on June 28, where he defeated his former tag team partner Randy Orton in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to become the 2025 King of the Ring. The victory earned him a championship match at SummerSlam.
His focus is now on a highly anticipated rematch with John Cena, who defeated him at WrestleMania 41. The second encounter is set to headline Night 2 of SummerSlam on August 3 in Newark, New Jersey. In his post-match comments after winning the tournament, Rhodes vowed to “get the ball back” from Cena.
Adding another layer to his future, there is speculation that a title victory could be short-lived due to outside commitments. Rhodes is rumored to be joining the cast of a new Street Fighter movie, with filming reportedly set to begin in August, which could require a temporary departure from WWE programming.
In the immediate aftermath of his King of the Ring triumph, Rhodes appeared on the July 4 episode of SmackDown. The celebration was interrupted by both Randy Orton and a returning Drew McIntyre, setting up further conflict within the main event scene.
To build toward his championship match, Rhodes has a full schedule in July. He is slated for three consecutive SmackDown appearances on July 11, 18, and 25, in addition to four WWE Supershow live events across Texas and Mexico.