The 2024 edition of SummerSlam, held in Cleveland, was a night full of surprises, with four major title changes electrifying the crowd. Gunther claimed the World Heavyweight Championship, LA Knight secured the United States Championship, Bron Breakker took home the Intercontinental Championship, and Nia Jax emerged as the WWE Women’s Champion. However, the main event was the most talked-about moment of the night. Cody Rhodes, facing a daunting Bloodline Rules match against Solo Sikoa, managed to retain the Undisputed WWE Championship thanks to an unforeseen ally.
The unexpected return of Roman Reigns
Cody Rhodes found himself in a tough spot despite the assistance of Randy Orton and Kevin Owens. The Bloodline’s dominance seemed insurmountable, and the audience could almost taste the shift in the championship. Yet, just as hope seemed lost for Rhodes, Roman Reigns made a shocking return. The Original Tribal Chief intervened, delivering a decisive Superman Punch to Solo Sikoa, thereby allowing Rhodes to maintain his title. This act was not out of camaraderie but rather a personal vendetta against Sikoa, who had taken over Reigns’ former team and reshaped it into a new Bloodline.
Roman Reigns’ intentions unveiled
Contrary to popular belief that Reigns would seek a rematch for the Universal Championship against Rhodes, insights from the Busted Open Podcast suggest otherwise. Dave LaGreca, during the latest episode, emphasized that Reigns’ return is primarily focused on reclaiming his authority over the Bloodline, setting the stage for a fierce rivalry with Sikoa.
LaGreca highlighted the tension, “The look that Roman gave Cody was telling. While Cody acknowledged Roman, there was no reciprocal recognition. For Roman, it’s a step-by-step process. Solo Sikoa, you want to challenge my legacy and take over? This is just the beginning.”
A night to remember in Cleveland
The Cleveland Browns Stadium bore witness to one of 2024’s most pivotal WWE moments. The crowd, anticipating Reigns’ return, erupted in cheers and shock. Rhodes himself acknowledged the significance of Reigns’ interference in his post-match press conference, admitting that without the Tribal Chief’s unexpected help, the championship would likely be in Sikoa’s hands.
Cody Rhodes’ gratitude
During the press conference, Rhodes expressed his gratitude for Reigns’ timely intervention. “I don’t want to overstate things, but Roman’s return was crucial. I probably wouldn’t be here with this title if not for him. There’s a long list of people I owe, and Roman is now part of that list,” Rhodes admitted.
He continued, “I haven’t spoken to him since WrestleMania. The fans wanted him back, and SummerSlam delivered. I’m grateful for that.” Rhodes’ wife, Brandi, even humorously tweeted about potentially inviting Reigns to Thanksgiving, though she playfully left the invitation open-ended.
The future of Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns
After the dust has settled from SummerSlam, the WWE Universe is filled with speculation. Could Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes team up to take on the newly reformed Bloodline 2.0? Or will their journeys separate in a fresh plot that confronts them with each other again? The levels of tension, drama, and emotional stakes are elevated, setting the stage for an electrifying future for WWE enthusiasts.
The influence of SummerSlam 2024 will echo across WWE’s history. The return of Roman Reigns not only changed the outcome of the main event but also set the stage for an exciting plot that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. As the WWE Universe deliberates and speculates, it is evident that the WWE environment has undergone a lasting transformation, with further unforeseen occurrences and dramatic turns anticipated shortly.
The path in front
While the WWE moves forward in this new phase, the main focus is still on the changing relationships within the Bloodline and the possible connections and conflicts that will come about. Reigns’ tactical decision has sparked intense emotions and rumors, guaranteeing that WWE shows will be essential viewing in the upcoming weeks.
What do you think about this surprising turn of events? Will Reigns and Rhodes unite, or are they headed towards another intense clash? Leave your thoughts in the comments section and be sure to keep an eye out for future updates on this exciting saga.