Cody Rhodes Shocks Fans: Why He Thinks His “Worst” WrestleMania Match with John Cena Equals Their SummerSlam Classic
Cody Rhodes has left the WWE Universe stunned with his latest comments about John Cena. Despite many fans labeling their WrestleMania 41 showdown as one of the weakest main events in recent memory, The American Nightmare insists he views it on par with their epic SummerSlam rematch.
The rivalry between Rhodes and Cena was a cornerstone of Cena’s farewell tour. It began with Cena’s shocking heel turn at Elimination Chamber and led to their highly anticipated WrestleMania clash—only for the bout to fall flat. Even with Travis Scott’s surprise involvement, the match was widely panned.
But Rhodes sees things differently. Speaking on The Pat McAfee Show, the reigning Undisputed WWE Champion explained:
“Sometimes the long game is the game. It’s like going on last—it’s a hard spot occasionally. But the bigger picture? I treat them as the same match. At SummerSlam, we just got to use all the bells and whistles.”
And what a difference those “bells and whistles” made. Their Street Fight at SummerSlam stole the show, delivering a brutal, emotional brawl that erased the sour taste of their WrestleMania flop.
The Rock’s Exit Changed Everything
Interestingly, Rhodes revealed that the original plan involved The Final Boss himself—The Rock. At one stage, The Rock was expected to continue his unholy alliance with Cena all the way to WrestleMania. His abrupt exit forced WWE to pivot, leaving Rhodes and Cena to carry the story on their own.

The Undertaker’s Locker Room Pep Talk
Rhodes also opened up about a powerful backstage moment. On January 7, ahead of Raw’s historic Netflix premiere, The Undertaker gathered the WWE locker room for one final pep talk.
“The Deadman” reminded talent why they chose this business and stressed the importance of the Netflix deal. Rhodes admitted it pumped everyone up:
“Some of the younger wrestlers don’t fully understand Taker’s stature. But hearing him speak with quiet authority was incredible. It steadied the roster before a massive night.”
Later that evening, Undertaker made an appearance in his American Badass persona, celebrating Rhea Ripley’s Women’s World Title victory.
Teaming With Randy Orton: A Dream Reunion
Looking ahead, Rhodes is set to team with Randy Orton on SmackDown against Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed. For Rhodes, this is far from just another tag match—it’s a reunion with his mentor and former Legacy stablemate.
He even compared the pairing to a “Mega Powers”-style team-up, while acknowledging the uncertainty around Orton’s in-ring future.
“No one knows how much longer Randy can go. To stand beside him again is special. This isn’t just another match—it’s a chance to honor his influence on me.”
With Cena’s farewell, Orton’s uncertain future, and Rhodes firmly seated at the top of WWE, fans can’t help but wonder: how many more “epic stories” like this are still waiting to unfold?