Highlights
- WWE teases a potential match between Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 40.
- The decision to change Cody's opponent may be due to CM Punk's injury and the potential involvement of The Rock at WrestleMania.
- WWE wants to ensure Rollins' recovery from his injury and build credibility for the World Title by having Rhodes struggle internally.
On Monday Night Raw, a surprising promo took place where, as Cody Rhodes was about to announce his official challenge to Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40, Seth Rollins interrupted and told Cody that he should challenge him. Making an argument that the World Heavyweight Title was the working man's championship, it would be a much greater story and more respect would be given to The American Nightmare if he could win the title The American Dream helped make famous.
It was a surprising moment and one that gave Cody a reason to pause. Instead of announcing he would challenge Reigns, Cody told Rollins he would think about it. No decision was made during the show.
As odd as it was that WWE slightly veered away from Cody vs Roman, it is believed there are two reasons WWE did this. The first had to do with the news confirmed earlier in the evening that CM Punk would not be making it to WrestleMania 40 due to a torn tricep injury. He was slated to battle Rollins at WM and now that he's out, Rollins doesn't have an opponent. Teasing a match with Cody gives WWE time to work that program to find Rollins a challenger. The second seems to be that WWE would like to keep a few options open.
5 Reasons Why Cody Rhodes Was A Good Men's Royal Rumble Winner
Cody Rhodes winning the Men's Royal Rumble and main eventing WrestleMania 40 was the right choice - here's why!Among them, is The Rock's potential participation at WrestleMania 40. If he can make it, having him wrestle Roman Reigns is an easy decision. That would leave Rollins and Cody as the other title bout, which is a huge get and lessens the sting of Punk not being able to go. Alternatively, WWE likely wants to make sure that Rollins' rehab from his injury is coming along OK. Announcing a match with him too quickly is problematic, especially if it turns out he can't go. Finally, WWE wants to build credibility for the World Title, and having Rhodes struggle internally immediately puts respect on that championship, more so than just having Rollins hold it while he's unable to perform in the ring.
Who Will Rhodes Choose?
Right now, it sounds like the plan is still to have Cody challenge Roman and run that match back. There will also be an Elimination Chamber match to determine a No. 1 contender for Rollin's championship. That was the match Punk was likely to win, that he won't be able to compete in now. Drew McIntyre is the new favorite.
