WWE star recalls how Cody Rhodes didn't get to be his true self during his first stint with the company
WWE star Kevin Owens recently spoke about how Cody Rhodes couldn't unlock his true potential in the company during his first stint. Cody's initial stint with the Stamford-based company was between 2006 and 2016. He returned to the company at WrestleMania 38.
The American Nightmare is the reigning Undisputed WWE Champion. The 39-year-old offered Owens a shot at his title following SummerSlam 2024. Although The Prizefighter hesitated initially, he has since come around the idea. The two stars are set to collide at Bash in Berlin tonight.
KO and Cody were in a sit-down interview with Corey Graves before their title match. During the conversation, the former Universal Champion revealed he followed Rhodes' matches even after the star left WWE in 2016.
Kevin pointed out that the erstwhile Stardust flourished in the independent circuit and owned his gimmick, something the latter couldn't do during his first stint in the Stamford-based promotion.
"Even after he left, I was watching his matches on whatever independent promotion he'd be working. I saw the Cody [that] he wanted to be here that he didn't get to be. I remember texting him afterward; I was like, 'That's it!"' he revealed. [From 1:08-1:20]
Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens confronted each other on SmackDown
This week on the blue brand, SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis invited Kevin Owens and Cody Rhodes for a final confrontation before their matchup.
The Prizefighter claimed he knew about Cody Rhodes' knee injury during the European tour. The veteran claimed his victory would be tainted if he defeated an injured champion at Bash in Berlin.
However, Rhodes quickly changed the topic and mentioned that Owens may be upset about being forced to share the spotlight with The American Nightmare at WrestleMania 38. Notably, Cody's return at The Show of Shows in 2022 overshadowed Kevin's main event match against Stone Cold Steve Austin. The reigning champion later asked his challenger if they would remain friends after Bash in Berlin.
Later, Kevin whispered something in Cody's ear and left the ring. It will be interesting to see who walks out of Uber Arena in Berlin as the Undisputed WWE Champion.
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