WWE SmackDown brought their January 3 episode to Phoenix, Arizonas Footprint Center. That was a historic show, as it brought the blue brand into a three-hour format. It also included an appearance of The American Nightmare, Cody Rhodes, as he prepares for a personal grudge match at Royal Rumble.
Cody Rhodes will take on Kevin Owens in a ladder match at Royal Rumble on February 1. This match was made official during the December 30 episode of WWE RAW. Rhodes was on hand during SmackDown, and fans were excited to see the Grandson of a Plumber.
Cody Rhodes kicked off SmackDown this week, and he received a full entrance with pyro as usual. Fans were all behind him as he cut a promo in the middle of the ring.
He knew what people wanted him to talk about, Kevin Owens. He said that timing is a funny thing in life, because WWE is about to change everything about pro wrestling itself, starting with SmackDown going to three hours, and then WWE RAW going to Netflix, and everything that brings. However, Rhodes isnt as excited about that, because hes not technically clear to wrestle.
Cody Rhodes then said hes not cleared to wrestle because of Kevin Owens, and Nick Aldis is concerned about him being there in the first place. Then Drew McIntyre made his way out to interrupt him. That ended with Kevin Owens ambushing Cody in the ring as they continued to brawl until broken up by officials.
We will have to see what happens for Cody Rhodes as he makes his way toward the 2025 Royal Rumble. Only time will tell what twists are in store for the American Nightmare, but he is not cleared thanks to that Kevin Owens piledriver, and things could go in a much different direction in the blink of an eye.
Whats your take on Cody Rhdoes creative direction as he prepares to hit another road to WrestleMania? Let us know what you think in the comments section!
