Cody Rhodes has taken a moment to reflect on his impactful return to WWE and the steadfast support from his fans that has marked his journey. Since making his dramatic comeback at WrestleMania 38, Rhodes has been a focal point in WWE, consistently receiving one of the most enthusiastic reactions from the audience.
Despite the high expectations placed upon him, Rhodes faced a significant challenge after his loss to Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 39. The fear that his momentum might wane was palpable, but Rhodes’ popularity did not diminish. If anything, the anticipation for his story only grew, particularly when plans seemed to shift due to the potential involvement of The Rock. The fans’ “We Want Cody” chants became a rallying cry, reflecting a powerful shift in WWE’s creative direction that ultimately led to Rhodes winning the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 40.
In a recent conversation with Diamond Dallas Page, Rhodes spoke candidly about his journey and the build-up to WrestleMania. He expressed contentment with how things have unfolded, stating, “I know we could have made anything work in any direction we took it. However, I feel like if I had to do this all over again, I wouldn’t want anything to change.” This reflection highlights Rhodes’ satisfaction with the storytelling process and his role in it, despite the various challenges and detours along the way.
Rhodes also took the opportunity to address his relationship with the fans, emphasizing his gratitude for their unwavering support. He acknowledged that his departure from WWE in 2016 and the subsequent creation of his own wrestling promotion could have led to a more negative reception upon his return. “You can set the booking or the matches that you’re in or the TV time that you get,” Rhodes noted. “But they could’ve fully rejected me.” Instead, the fans welcomed him back with open arms, a testament to the genuine connection he has cultivated with them over the years.
Additionally, Rhodes addressed the frequent comparisons between himself and Homelander, the character from the popular TV show “The Boys.” While fans have drawn parallels between Rhodes and the superhero-like figure, he remains focused on being authentic and true to himself. “Wrestling is a suspension of disbelief,” Rhodes said. “But when it’s real, it’s just the best.” This perspective underscores Rhodes’ commitment to his craft and his desire to remain grounded despite the larger-than-life personas often associated with professional wrestling.
Rhodes’ journey from his initial return to WWE to capturing the Undisputed Championship has been marked by significant highs and lows. Through it all, his bond with the audience has been a constant source of inspiration and motivation. As he continues to navigate his path in WWE, Rhodes remains appreciative of the support that has been crucial to his success.
