In a moment that resonated with wrestling fans worldwide, Cody Rhodes etched his name into the annals of WWE history by clinching the Undisputed Universal Championship at WrestleMania 40’s epic finale. While the match unfolded amidst a flurry of excitement and anticipation, it was not without its dramatic twists and turns, culminating in an unforgettable showdown between Rhodes and his adversary, Roman Reigns.
Dubbed as “The Bloodline Rules,” the main event initially began as a one-on-one encounter, but soon evolved into a spectacle of grand proportions with the intrusion of several wrestling legends and unexpected allies. From Jimmy Uso’s initial interference to the surprise appearances of Seth Rollins, Solo Sikoa, John Cena, The Rock, and The Undertaker, the match took on a cinematic quality that captivated audiences from start to finish.
Amidst the chaos and unpredictability, Cody Rhodes remained steadfast in his pursuit of victory, channeling the spirit of his late father, Dusty Rhodes, whose legacy loomed large over the event. With three decisive Cross Rhodes maneuvers, Rhodes delivered the final blow to ‘The Tribal Chief,’ Roman Reigns, clinching the coveted championship and fulfilling a lifelong dream.
Congrats @CodyRhodes & @WWERomanReigns For Providing One Of The Most Athletic And Believable Main Events That I’ve Seen In A Long Time. I Hate The Interference, But It All Played Out In Your Favor And It Made The Show More Enjoyable To Watch. I Respect You Both. Thankful To Know… pic.twitter.com/wkYrYQWPfm
— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) April 8, 2024
The culmination of Rhodes’ triumph was met with an outpouring of praise and admiration from wrestling luminaries and fans alike. Among those celebrating his victory was none other than Ric Flair, a legendary figure in the wrestling world and a longtime rival of Dusty Rhodes. Despite their storied history, Flair set aside past animosities to extend his heartfelt congratulations to Cody Rhodes on his historic achievement.
Taking to social media, Flair penned a poignant message commending both Rhodes and Reigns for their athletic prowess and dedication to their craft. While expressing his disdain for the interference that marred the match, Flair acknowledged the entertainment value it added to the spectacle and praised the resilience of both competitors.
Flair’s message underscored the significance of Rhodes’ victory, not only as a triumph in the ring but also as a testament to his unwavering determination and commitment to carrying on his father’s legacy. The emotional resonance of Rhodes’ win was further amplified by Flair’s acknowledgment of the profound impact it had on fulfilling Dusty Rhodes’ dream.
As Cody Rhodes celebrated his momentous victory, Ric Flair’s words served as a poignant reminder of the enduring bonds and rivalries that define the world of professional wrestling. While Rhodes basked in the glory of his championship win, Flair’s tribute highlighted the universal respect and admiration shared among wrestlers past and present.
In the aftermath of WrestleMania 40, as the wrestling world reflects on the historic events that transpired, Cody Rhodes’ triumph stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the enduring spirit of competition. With his victory, Rhodes has etched his name among the pantheon of wrestling greats, solidifying his place in WWE lore for generations to come.