Cody Rhodes’ historic reign as Undisputed WWE Champion came to a shocking end at WrestleMania 41. In a match that was already hyped as the main event of the year, the outcome took an unexpected turn. With help from rapper Travis Scott, John Cena pinned Rhodes to clinch his record-breaking 17th world title - surpassing Ric Flair’s legendary mark.
While Cena stayed in the spotlight, even being scheduled for multiple title defenses, Rhodes disappeared from WWE television. The company remained silent on his status, sparking rumours and speculation. But now, fans finally have a confirmed return date.
When is Cody Rhodes coming back?According to multiple reports, The American Nightmare is scheduled to make his WWE return on the May 16 episode of SmackDown, just days after the WWE Backlash premium live event. Initially advertised for the post-WrestleMania show, Rhodes was quietly pulled from WWE programming for the first half of May.
The new return date lines up with the growing speculation that Rhodes could insert himself back into the title picture. WWE has advertised both Cena and Rhodes for SmackDowns leading into Money in the Bank 2025, which takes place on June 7. This has only added fuel to rumors that fans may see Cena vs. Rhodes II on a much bigger stage.
Cody Rhodes spotted vacationing with familyDuring his time away, Rhodes was spotted enjoying some downtime with his family. A report from WrestleVotes revealed that he was seen at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida, spending time at the theme park with his wife and daughter. A lucky fan even managed to get a selfie with the star during the visit.
“He’s earned the break,” the report said, adding that Rhodes had been working tirelessly for over a year as WWE’s top champion.
With John Cena set to defend his title against Randy Orton at Backlash, Cody Rhodes’ return opens up several possibilities. He could reignite an old feud with Orton or go straight after Cena to avenge his WrestleMania loss. A rematch at Money in the Bank or even SummerSlam isn’t off the table.
With Roman Reigns and CM Punk also expected to return later this summer, WWE’s top-tier storylines are about to get crowded - and Rhodes looks ready to reclaim his place at the center of it all.
While Cena stayed in the spotlight, even being scheduled for multiple title defenses, Rhodes disappeared from WWE television. The company remained silent on his status, sparking rumours and speculation. But now, fans finally have a confirmed return date.
When is Cody Rhodes coming back?According to multiple reports, The American Nightmare is scheduled to make his WWE return on the May 16 episode of SmackDown, just days after the WWE Backlash premium live event. Initially advertised for the post-WrestleMania show, Rhodes was quietly pulled from WWE programming for the first half of May.
The new return date lines up with the growing speculation that Rhodes could insert himself back into the title picture. WWE has advertised both Cena and Rhodes for SmackDowns leading into Money in the Bank 2025, which takes place on June 7. This has only added fuel to rumors that fans may see Cena vs. Rhodes II on a much bigger stage.
Cody Rhodes spotted vacationing with familyDuring his time away, Rhodes was spotted enjoying some downtime with his family. A report from WrestleVotes revealed that he was seen at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida, spending time at the theme park with his wife and daughter. A lucky fan even managed to get a selfie with the star during the visit.
“He’s earned the break,” the report said, adding that Rhodes had been working tirelessly for over a year as WWE’s top champion.
With John Cena set to defend his title against Randy Orton at Backlash, Cody Rhodes’ return opens up several possibilities. He could reignite an old feud with Orton or go straight after Cena to avenge his WrestleMania loss. A rematch at Money in the Bank or even SummerSlam isn’t off the table.
With Roman Reigns and CM Punk also expected to return later this summer, WWE’s top-tier storylines are about to get crowded - and Rhodes looks ready to reclaim his place at the center of it all.
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