Nick Aldis to give 20-time champion a title match vs. Cody Rhodes? Exploring massive swerve
Nick Aldis has faced several challenges managing the recent turmoil on SmackDown. Amid the ongoing mayhem, Cody Rhodes' Undisputed WWE Championship has taken a backseat, as it has not been defended lately. However, the upcoming edition of the blue brand could see a huge development, as the SmackDown GM could give a 20-time champion a title match against Rhodes.
The star in question is Randy Orton. The veteran is a 14-time World Champion, a one-time US Champion, a one-time Intercontinental Champion, and a four-time tag team champion. The Viper delivered a wicked RKO to RAW General Manager Adam Pearce at Crown Jewel. Considering the beef between Pearce and Aldis, the latter can reward Orton this week instead of punishing him for attacking an authority figure.
In a stunning twist, he could give The Apex Predator a guaranteed world title shot to rub salt in Pearce's wounds. There is a high chance that Nick Aldis could appreciate Randy Orton for his actions. Recently, WWE's X account posted the clip of that RKO, asking the SmackDown GM whether he planned to take any disciplinary action against The Viper.
Aldis swiftly avoided a direct response, as if he had no problem with it. It seems to indicate that he has no intentions of reprimanding The Legend Killer. Moreover, Aldis' recent social media activity hints at his satisfaction with Pearce being assaulted at Crown Jewel. It further fuels speculation about the authority figure rewarding Orton rather than punishing him.
Given the recent rugged interactions between both the general managers, this decision could drastically escalate the tensions between them, adding a new layer to their rivalry.
This could also sow the seeds of a future showdown between Nick Aldis and Adam Pearce, something WWE has been teasing for quite some time. Meanwhile, Randy Orton could have an opportunity to add another title to his resume. However, this is just speculation at this point, and it remains to be seen whether it actually happens or not.
Nick Aldis to face Adam Pearce at Survivor Series: WarGames?
WWE appears to have planted seeds of a potential match between Adam Pearce and Nick Aldis, as the two have often been seen at loggerheads. Despite various opportunities, the company has yet to pit them against each other in the squared circle. However, the recent interactions between the two stars have reignited the possibility of an imminent clash.
Survivor Series is the perfect place for the two general managers to collide, given the history of the PLE. They could battle each other for brand supremacy. However, the chance of it happening is relatively low. The biggest highlight of the upcoming spectacle is set to be a WarGames Match, which is rumored to take place between the OG Bloodline and Solo Sikoa's faction.
Additionally, WWE also plans to feature two world title matches at the event, and this would also take up a considerable amount of time. Considering that Triple H might be going with the five-match PLE format, it leaves insufficient space for the creative team to feature a clash between Nick Aldis and Adam Peace.
Although this match might not take place at this year's Survivor Series, WWE could build it for an upcoming event like Saturday Night's Main Event or even Royal Rumble next year. It will be interesting to see how things develop between the two general managers.