Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes encountered a formidable challenge on the latest episode of SmackDown when he squared off against the promising newcomer Carmelo Hayes in the main event.
Hayes, a recent draft pick to the blue brand, approached Rhodes during a draft announcement, expressing his desire to prove himself by facing the champ. Rhodes accepted the challenge, leading to an intense showdown in the main event.
Cody Rhodes Faces Challenges Ahead of Backlash
During the match, Rhodes experienced a concerning moment when attempting his signature move, the Cody Cutter, resulting in an awkward landing on his shoulder.
Fightful Select reached out to Rhodes for an update on his condition, to which Rhodes responded cryptically with “Always,” leaving fans speculating about his well-being.
In addition to his in-ring endeavors, Rhodes participated in a highly attended autograph signing event at Kroger in Newport, Kentucky, where he met thousands of fans, highlighting his enduring popularity and connection with the WWE Universe.
Rhodes also took part in the contract signing for his upcoming match against AJ Styles at Backlash. The segment on SmackDown featured mutual respect between the two competitors, with Styles acknowledging the Rhodes family legacy and expressing his intent to test the champion.
"We've been down the same roads & we had to prove ourselves outside of WWE." – AJ Styles to Cody Rhodes.
The parallels are insane. pic.twitter.com/nLjPoKR1Q9
— Pro Wrestling Finesse (@ProWFinesse) April 27, 2024
Rhodes reciprocated the respect but emphasized that their match would be a pivotal test where all niceties would be set aside.
As the countdown to Backlash France continues, fans remain eager to see if Rhodes will recover from his recent injury scare and be in peak condition to face Styles in what promises to be a compelling and must-watch showdown.
