WWE Heavily Criticized After Cody Rhodes' Destruction at Elimination Chamber
Former WWE head writer Vince Russo criticizes creative direction on Sportskeeda’s Legion of RAW, stating Cody Rhodes appears weak by never retaliating against The Rock’s past assaults.
During an appearance on Sportskeeda Wrestling’s Legion of RAW, Russo addressed the ongoing storyline involving The Rock, Cody Rhodes, and John Cena following the shocking events at Elimination Chamber 2025.
The recent premium live event saw Rhodes decline The Final Boss’ offer to be his champion, only for John Cena to accept the proposal in a surprising heel turn. Cena’s shocking betrayal led to a brutal attack on Rhodes as fans watched in disbelief.
Russo pointed out that The American Nightmare never properly responded to previous physical confrontations initiated by The Rock, creating a perception problem for Rhodes’ character.
Listen, Rock is a pro. Rock is well aware of everything going on, and the way it’s perceived, and what’s happening. Bro, they’re making Cody look weak. They’re really making him look weak.
The former head writer emphasized that Rhodes never received retribution for a significant physical assault that occurred last year.
Do you not remember Rock bloodied Cody, beat the cr*p out of him with his own tour bus? Bro, Cody never got a receipt from that. He never got a receipt from that. There he is in the ring with The Rock, and he’s showing pictures. That makes Cody look weak.
This criticism centers on wrestling’s traditional storytelling mechanics, where babyface characters typically respond to physical attacks by eventually standing up to their aggressors.
Rhodes now faces even greater challenges with both The Rock and John Cena aligned against him heading into WrestleMania 41.
The Undisputed WWE Championship remains at stake for the event, with Rhodes’ ability to overcome these obstacles now in question following the formation of this powerful heel alliance.
Russo’s comments highlight the potential character development issues that could impact fan perception of Rhodes as he approaches WWE’s biggest event of the year.
The American Nightmare now must find a way to respond to both Cena’s betrayal and The Rock’s continued mind games as WrestleMania approaches.
