Entertainment

Cody Rhodes: The Inevitable Heel Turn and The Rock's Dramatic Comeback

2024-10-12

Author: Olivia

The Inevitable Heel Turn

When it comes to Cody Rhodes and his potential heel turn in WWE, it's not a question of *if*—it’s a matter of *when*. Currently, Rhodes stands as the company’s top babyface, but the tides are shifting in a way that hints at an impending transformation. The once-reliable allies are distancing themselves, and tensions are rising—specifically highlighted by Kevin Owens’ recent attack on Rhodes for his acceptance of a reformed Roman Reigns.

As fans witness this unraveling, it becomes all too clear that Rhodes’ sunny disposition may soon be a relic of the past. His character arc is compelling yet teetering on the edge; he’s portrayed as too good, a beacon of hope who sees the best in everyone, even in someone like Reigns, which sparks contempt from wrestlers like Owens and Randy Orton.

Recent confrontations have already set the stage for Rhodes' gradual downfall. Owens has initiated a long feud based on their disagreements, while Orton awaits the perfect moment to make his move. Seth Rollins, known for his volatile relationship with Rhodes, is also waiting in the wings, and both men have valid grievances rooted in their contempt for the Tribal Chief.

This situation harkens back to an age-old narrative in storytelling—the idea that one can either “die a hero or live long enough to become a villain.” Despite his noble character, Rhodes' title reign has grown monotonous compared to the riveting drama surrounding Reigns and the Bloodline saga. The longer Rhodes clings to his upright persona, the more likely he is to irritate fans and fans become fatigued.

Interestingly, Rhodes embodies a superhero-like image, reminiscent of John Cena, refusing to embrace a darker side during his time with AEW. Yet, there's room for his character to pivot dramatically; a darker version could emerge resembling the charisma of complex antiheroes like Homelander from 'The Boys.'

Looking ahead, there's a tantalizing possibility that two WrestleManias from now, we may witness a dramatic reversal of roles with a heroic Reigns facing a villainous Rhodes. WWE seems poised to craft a beloved champion in Reigns who could dominate the main event scene, a trajectory that fans didn’t necessarily forecast but is slowly taking shape under Triple H's creative leadership.

As we chart this narrative, the timeline indicates that a definitive heel turn for Rhodes could align with the aftermath of next year's WrestleMania, once The Rock has moved on from wrestling to his Hollywood pursuits. A pivotal betrayal—perhaps by a close ally like Sami Zayn—could spark this transition, leading to an enthralling culmination of feuds that tap into rich narratives and layered character development.

Conclusion

In essence, Cody Rhodes’ slow descent into the abyss of villainy promises to deliver a compelling storyline. If executed with the nuanced storytelling demonstrated in the Bloodline saga, fans could be in for a gripping ride filled with layered characters, intense rivalries, and a thrilling transformation that encapsulates all the drama and excitement of professional wrestling. So mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable journey—WWE's dynamic landscape is evolving, and it's going to be one wild ride!