Will Cody Rhodes' Royal Rumble Reign End?
The WWE Universe is buzzing with anticipation as Cody Rhodes gears up for his third consecutive Royal Rumble appearance. But here's a twist: not everyone is convinced he'll walk away victorious once more.
During the January 16th episode of WWE SmackDown, which aired from London's OVO Arena Wembley, Cody Rhodes made a bold declaration, announcing his entry into the Men's Royal Rumble match. This move sets the stage for a potential historic win, but WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry has a different take on the situation.
In a recent interview on Busted Open Radio, Henry expressed his doubts about Rhodes' chances, stating, "I don't think Cody Rhodes goes into the Rumble for the third time and wins. It's just not going to happen." Henry's comments have sparked a debate among fans, leaving many to wonder if Cody's winning streak will come to an end.
And this is the part most people miss: Henry believes that Rhodes' path to success this year will be significantly more challenging. According to him, Cody needs to work harder to reconnect with fans, especially after the controversial character arc he's embarked on since WrestleMania 40.
"Cody gets to travel the less popular road now," Henry explained. "He's established himself as a tweener, leaning more towards a heelish persona. It's a journey that requires him to earn back the respect and admiration of the fans."
But here's where it gets controversial: Henry suggests that the Royal Rumble isn't Cody's only shot at WrestleMania. He proposes that the Elimination Chamber could be an alternative route if Cody doesn't secure the Rumble victory.
"If he has to win the Rumble, a lot of factors have to align perfectly. He also has the Elimination Chamber as an option. Now, he's not guaranteed anything. He'll have to prove himself in the Chamber if the Rumble doesn't go his way."
The 2026 Royal Rumble, taking place on January 31st in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marks a historic first as the event ventures outside North America. With the stakes higher than ever, Henry's comments add an intriguing layer of uncertainty to Cody's journey.
So, will Cody Rhodes defy the odds and win the Royal Rumble for a third consecutive year? Or will he face a challenging road to WrestleMania? The WWE Universe is divided, and the debate rages on. What's your take on this wrestling dilemma? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
