Cody Rhodes to turn heel by attacking 9-time WWE champion; huge Mania title change? 4 ways The American Nightmare can surprise us for WrestleMania 41
Cody Rhodes always has a way of getting the WWE Universe excited. This time, The American Nightmare has promised something huge for WrestleMania 41.
The Undisputed WWE Champion recently said that what he does at The Show of Shows will surprise a lot of people. That sounds interesting from Rhodes. But how can he do that? There are a few options. Let's get into them.
Here are four ways Cody Rhodes can surprise us ahead of WrestleMania 41 next April.
#4. A Triple-Threat with The Rock and Roman Reigns
While some may expect a Triple-Threat match as the main event of WrestleMania 41, it would still seem surreal. Cody Rhodes could potentially come up against two of the biggest WWE Superstars ever. That's already bigger than what he did at this year's Show of Shows.
The Rock did not specify who he was going after when he returned at Bad Blood, which may lead to some compelling television when he comes back again. The Final Boss could target Rhodes and the Undisputed WWE Championship, while Roman Reigns wins the 2025 Royal Rumble Match.
It wouldn't be the biggest surprise in the world, but matches don't get more high-profile than this. The American Nightmare would become a WWE legend if he defeats Reigns and The Rock at WrestleMania 41.
#3. Cody Rhodes could turn heel ahead of a match with Roman Reigns
Now this would be a real shock!
Cody Rhodes is essentially the new John Cena. He is the face of WWE and represents the company while leading the way in the ring. A heel turn would disrupt his status in that respect, but it might be a more creatively fulfilling role. There are enough babyfaces in WWE to help carry the load anyway.
The American Nightmare can grow more sinister every week, to the point where he snaps and attacks Roman Reigns. It would be a great way to set up their third WrestleMania main event in a row while adding a new layer to their legendary feud.
#2. Dustin Rhodes could return to WWE alongside his brother
Whether or not he turns heel, Cody Rhodes could bring some backup. It's only fair his own blood helps him out, amid the issues with The Rock and Roman Reigns. Dustin Rhodes' AEW contract recently expired and his future is uncertain.
While he is reportedly in negotiations for a new deal, it hasn't been confirmed yet. This means a WWE return to work alongside Cody is not out of the question. He wouldn't return as Goldust, though, instead backing his younger brother up in a fight against the best The Bloodline has to offer.
This would show The American Nightmare has some tricks up his sleeve, even when cornered by The Final Boss. Dustin Rhodes doesn't need to completely get involved in Cody's WrestleMania 41 match. Simply being in his corner and on the lookout for interferences would be good enough.
#1. Cody Rhodes wins the People's Championship
This might end up being the surprise Cody Rhodes has been talking about. There has been loads of talk about The Rock winning the Undisputed WWE Championship, but what if The American Nightmare ends up dethroning The Final Boss?
Rhodes can talk the Hollywood megastar into putting his People's Championship on the line. That is the belt Muhammad Ali's widow Lonnie gifted to The Rock at the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony.
So, while it isn't a recognized championship, the fact that The Final Boss carries it around could mean it will be a huge part of his WrestleMania 41 storyline. Cody Rhodes doesn't even need to be champion in this scenario, with Kevin Owens potentially holding the Undisputed WWE Championship instead.
Rhodes can defeat The Rock next April to officially become the real People's Champion. What a torch-passing moment that would be.