WrestleMania 40 concluded with a dramatic shift in the WWE universe as Cody Rhodes defeated Roman Reigns to claim the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, ending Reigns’ dominant reign that began in 2020. This victory not only marked a significant chapter in Rhodes’ career but also symbolized the end of one of the most formidable eras in recent WWE history.
In a revealing interview on SI Media with Jimmy Traina, Cody Rhodes shared his thoughts on the aftermath of his monumental win and his relationship with Roman Reigns. Despite the intensity of their WrestleMania showdown, Rhodes disclosed that there was no personal moment shared between the two immediately following the match. He reflected on the nature of such high-stakes encounters, suggesting that the battles themselves create an unspoken bond between competitors.
“Roman was nowhere to be found in Gorilla when I got back. But in the oddest of ways, we don’t need to have a moment,” Rhodes said. He continued to express immense respect for Reigns’ contributions to the industry, acknowledging the significant impact Reigns had during his championship run. “When you change the landscape of a company, when you help better the locker room situation for the talent surrounding you, when you bring the entire tide up for one company, which Roman did, then you know you’ve done something special.”
Rhodes highlighted the dual nature of his feelings—admiration for Reigns’ legacy and readiness for any future confrontations. “He might be thinking in his mind that he wants to smash me and murder me when he comes back,” Rhodes speculated. “If that’s the case, it’s okay. I’ll be ready for it.”
Despite the lack of a direct exchange post-match, Rhodes clarified that he did not take Reigns’ absence as a personal snub. “We just got finished punching and kicking each other to death,” he explained, underlining the physically grueling and emotionally draining aspect of their encounter. “Bleeding, belts, chairs. No, I didn’t take it personal at all, and I wouldn’t take it personal if he hates my guts to this day. I just feel a little differently.”
The conversation also touched on Rhodes’ perspective on the future of WWE and the role Reigns’ legacy plays in it. Describing Reigns’ tenure as champion as generational, Rhodes expressed confidence in WWE’s continued success. “You can count ten people in the last thirty years who changed the business. I think [Reigns] knew that he could walk out of the ballpark knowing that the ball was still sailing, and WWE is gonna be just fine, if not even better,” he stated. Rhodes also voiced anticipation for Reigns’ return, signaling an exciting phase for WWE fans and the industry at large.
Cody Rhodes’ victory at WrestleMania 40 is not just about claiming a title but also about recognizing the transformational changes within WWE led by figures like Roman Reigns. As Rhodes prepares for whatever challenges lie ahead, his comments reflect a deep respect for the past and a hopeful gaze towards the future, ensuring that the saga of these two wrestling titans will continue to captivate the WWE audience.