Cody Rhodes, WWE’s top fan-favorite, has openly acknowledged that his time as a heroic character is likely nearing its end, sparking a debate about a potential turn to a villainous role. While Rhodes himself seems to be preparing for the change, and with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson reportedly pushing for it, a prominent wrestling journalist suggests that such a move could be disastrous for WWE’s current business boom.
The discussion gained significant traction following Rhodes’ appearance at Fanatics Fest, where he spoke candidly about the lifespan of his current persona.
The being a good guy aspect of it—I don’t get tired of it because I get to have all of those moments. I do think we’re probably at the tail end of it though. Because there’s only so much someone can like you. I’d like to do it until the end of my career, but at some point it’s like, ‘Alright, all we do is cheer for him.’ Eventually, fans want to see someone else. I get that. And that’s when you have to change as a character.
Rhodes also defined what a true heel character means in the modern era, suggesting his eventual turn would be designed to elicit genuine fan disapproval, not admiration.
You’ll know because X and Instagram will hate it. Today, heels are like, ‘Oh, that’s a cool heel, we love John Cena.’ No. If you’re burying it, hating it, and saying you don’t want it on TV—that’s what a real bad guy is.
The influence of The Rock appears to be a significant factor in the conversation. Rhodes revealed that the Hollywood star and TKO board member has been advocating for the character shift behind the scenes and that he respects his perspective.
I think you’ve got a good solid year, maybe even three years, because I’m not changing until I’m changed… But if The Rock had it his way, I would’ve been changed already. So I think he sees something I don’t see, and that’s a very smart individual—so maybe I follow his lead.
Despite the momentum for a change, veteran wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer explained on Wrestling Observer Radio that the timing is perilous. Meltzer confirmed that Johnson has been vocal backstage, but he expressed surprise that Rhodes would discuss the matter so publicly, given the risks involved.
My feeling is… is that when someone brings in a lot of… a lot of new fans and things like that as a babyface and then you turn them, it’s kind of a risk in a lot of ways.
He pointed to the negative business impact of Steve Austin’s heel turn in the early 2000s as a cautionary tale. While Hulk Hogan’s famous turn worked for WCW, his broadcast partner Bryan Alvarez noted that it came after years of fans booing Hogan, a situation not comparable to Rhodes’ current standing.
According to Meltzer, the sentiment within WWE is one of extreme caution. The company is reportedly aware of the potential consequences of altering the character of one of its main attractions during a period of record-breaking success.
The company is in a position right now where if you turn him, like, it’s going to kill your business. Like with Austin, it hurt the business a lot. But I wouldn’t do it. You know what I mean? I think it’s a really bad idea.
Meltzer reiterated that while The Rock continues to advocate for the turn, the overarching business reality makes it a dangerous proposition.
I always think… if it’s… if it’s… if it’s not broken, don’t fix it. Especially when it’s… especially when it’s a top babyface who is a draw.