Former WWE Champion forced out of company to return on SmackDown and attack Cody Rhodes? Exploring the possibility
Cody Rhodes is set to defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Solo Sikoa in a high-voltage Steel Cage Match this week on SmackDown. While it is set for a tough contest, Rhodes will likely retain his title. However, his celebrations could be short-lived as a familiar foe from his past—a former WWE Champion—could return after the match and attack The American Nightmare.
The name in question is none other than AJ Styles. The Phenomenal One has not been seen on WWE television since his heartbreaking loss against Cody Rhodes at Clash at the Castle earlier this year. The crushing weight of his defeat in the 'I Quit' Match forced him out of the company to go on a self-imposed exile to process the emotional fallout of that fateful night.
There's a good possibility that Styles could make a shocking return this week on the blue brand and ambush Rhodes after his Steel Cage Match against Solo Sikoa. A major reason why it is likely is that the upcoming edition of SmackDown will be the brand's Season Premiere on the USA Network, and WWE needs a show-stopping moment that could generate buzz and leave fans talking.
The Phenomenal One attacking the Undisputed WWE Champion will undoubtedly become the biggest highlight of the night, setting the tone for a new era of SmackDown on the USA Network. Moreover, it will pave the way for a final showdown between Cody Rhodes and AJ Styles, setting the trilogy of their match at the upcoming spectacle.
With Bad Blood themed around bitter rivalries and deep-seated hatred, it is the perfect time for WWE to reignite this rivalry and pit the two former rivals against each other in one last encounter. Hence, AJ Styles could return and unleash his fury upon Cody Rhodes this week on SmackDown.
Cody Rhodes may receive help from an unlikely ally on SmackDown
As noted above, Cody Rhodes is set to battle Solo Sikoa for the Undisputed WWE Championship in a Steel Cage Match this Friday. There's a good possibility that The Bloodline could wreak havoc in this match, causing ringside interference and allowing the self-proclaimed Tribal Chief to emerge victorious.
However, The American Nightmare could receive help from an unlikely ally against the heel faction's shenanigans. Just when the numbers game gets overwhelming, Jimmy Uso could make a shocking return after five months and turn the table in Rhodes' favor.
With a burning desire for vengeance against Solo Sikoa, Jimmy could take down The Bloodline, unleashing a vicious attack on the group. Moreover, he could hit a series of Superkicks to The Street Champion after entering the cage, allowing Cody Rhodes to capitalize on it by pinning the 31-year-old.
While the angle is speculative, the prospect of it happening is quite good. WWE is leaving no stone unturned to add grandeur to the Season Premium of SmackDown, and fans can expect major surprises, including the blockbuster comebacks of Jimmy Uso and AJ Styles to television.