5 opponents for Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41 now that The Rock is reportedly out
Cody Rhodes was rumored to face The Rock at WrestleMania 41 in a blockbuster match. However, in light of recent Dave Meltzer's reports, clouds of uncertainty have been looming over this bout as The Final Boss would be unavailable for The Show of Shows next year due to his Hollywood schedule.
Despite The Rock potentially getting sidelined from this highly anticipated showdown, there is a long list of superstars awaiting to share the stage with The American Nightmare. From Roman Reigns seeking a rematch to a legendary champion challenging Rhodes, the WWE Universe could witness several dream matches at The Grandest Stage of Them All in Las Vegas next year.
Now that The Rock is seemingly out of the picture, let's look at five opponents for Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41.
#5. CM Punk
CM Punk and Cody Rhodes had a spine-chilling face-off earlier this year ahead of Royal Rumble. Both superstars were engaged in a war of words with each other. At the premium live event, Rhodes was the man who eliminated Punk to win this year's Men's Royal Rumble match. Therefore, WWE could capitalize on this to set up a dream match between both at WrestleMania 41.
Considering their rich history, CM Punk could be a potential opponent for The Prodigal Son at WrestleMania next year. The Second City Saint is expected to have a major program at The Show of Shows this year after missing this year's spectacle in Philadelphia due to injury.
While The Best in the World is rumored to face Seth Rollins at 'Mania next year, WWE could change its plans if The Rock cannot compete at the spectacle.
#4. Randy Orton
Randy Orton is one of the most viable opponents for Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41 after The Rock's unavailability. The Viper has a deep history with The American Nightmare since their days in The Legacy. Therefore, having them face each other in a good old-fashioned 'Mentor' vs. 'Student' rivalry would be a treat for the fans at The Show of Shows in Las Vegas.
Moreover, both the stars are currently on the same brand, which could allow WWE to sow the seeds of their feud. Apparently, there have been a few teases of a potential heel turn of Randy Orton on SmackDown.
This could eventually herald a feud between Rhodes and Orton that could culminate at WrestleMania 41 with the Undisputed WWE Championship on the line.
Furthermore, the WWE Universe has also been clamoring for this feud since Cody's return to the company in 2022. Hence, The Rock's exit could potentially pave the way for this blockbuster rivalry to take place at The Grandest Stage of Them All.
#3. Seth Rollins
Seth Rollins has been one of Cody Rhodes' greatest rivals since his return to WWE in 2022. The two superstars even joined forces to fight The Bloodline this year at WrestleMania. Therefore, The Visionary could be one of the viable opponents for Undisputed WWE Champion at The Show of Shows next year in case The Rock won't be available.
Recently, Cody Rhodes declared a truce with Roman Reigns and fought alongside him at Bad Blood. This unexpected alliance has already upset several stars, including Rollins. This could eventually lead to the former Shield member coming after Cody on SmackDown looking for revenge.
Furthermore, this would establish Seth Rollins as a top heel and a tough opponent for The American Nightmare, which he would need in the coming months to make his reign iconic.
#2. John Cena
Cody Rhodes has often been compared with John Cena in terms of his fanbase and his babyface character. It is evident that Rhodes has been following in Cena's footsteps in his rise to the summit of this industry. Therefore, the WWE Universe has often yearned to see the two superstars share the ring, which could possibly happen next year.
With John Cena embarking on his Farewell tour next year, WrestleMania 41 seems to be the perfect place for a dream encounter between Cody Rhodes and The American Nightmare. This generational clash would add grandeur to The Showcase of The Immortals in Las Vegas next year.
Moreover, since it will be John Cena's last WrestleMania, it will also allow him to headline the extravaganza for one last time.
#1. Roman Reigns could face Cody Rhodes
The biggest name who could face Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41 if The Rock could not compete is Roman Reigns. Since losing the Undisputed WWE Championship at The Show of Shows this year, the embers of resentment are still smoldering within the OTC.
Reigns made it clear that he would come after the coveted title once he wraps up his program with The Bloodline. Therefore, if The Final Boss is unavailable to compete against The American Nightmare next year, WWE might eventually pull the trigger on Roman vs Cody III, marking the trilogy of their matches.
Reigns is currently rumored to participate in the Men's Royal Rumble Match next year. Therefore, the 39-year-old could win the Rumble and go on to challenge Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at The Grandest Stage of Them All next year.