In a thrilling climax to the final WWE SmackDown before WrestleMania 41, Cody Rhodes stood tall over wrestling legend John Cena, setting the stage for an electrifying championship bout.

The tension hit a boiling point as Rhodes and Cena faced off just two nights before their WWE Championship clash. This encounter marked the first time since Rhodes left Cena reeling with his signature Cross Rhodes maneuver. Eager to assert himself, Rhodes attempted to speak, but Cena quickly intercepted, launching into a passionate tirade about Rhodes’ supposed dependency on fan approval. Cena lambasted Rhodes' mindset, insisting that without shedding that need for validation, Rhodes stood no chance of victory.

The 16-time world champion reiterated his determination to not only win the title but to retire as champion, claiming his current retirement tour is unlike anything seen before. Cena recalled his victory in the Elimination Chamber and how his initial doubts about defeating Rhodes faded when he witnessed Rhodes' obsession with living up to everyone else's expectations.

In a fiery response, Rhodes called Cena overrated, declaring that the WWE landscape has drastically changed. He admitted to once idolizing Cena but emphasized that the wrestling world has evolved, and Cena’s skills are no longer up to par. Cena retorted that come Sunday, he won't even need to wrestle, slapping Rhodes playfully on the head before attempting an Attitude Adjustment.

However, Rhodes skillfully escaped the hold and retaliated with another Cross Rhodes, once again asserting his dominance over Cena. With both wrestlers fired up, fans are left buzzing, eager for their imminent showdown at WrestleMania 41!