The latest episode of Friday Night SmackDown delivered another intense chapter in the road to WrestleMania 41, as Cody Rhodes found himself at the center of a high-stakes decision. With The Rock extending an offer that could reshape the landscape of WWE, Rhodes turned to key figures like CM Punk, Seth Rollins, and others for guidance.
The Rock’s Tempting Proposition
After weeks of tension between Cody Rhodes and The Bloodline, The Rock made a shocking appearance last week, presenting Rhodes with a game-changing offer. Rather than continuing his quest alone against Roman Reigns, The Rock proposed an alliance—one that could either strengthen Rhodes’ path or compromise everything he’s fought for.
On SmackDown, Cody appeared torn, knowing that aligning with The Rock could mean temporarily setting aside his personal mission to dethrone Reigns as Undisputed WWE Universal Champion. The Rock, standing tall in the ring, reminded Cody that while his goal is noble, no one has been able to take down The Tribal Chief alone. His offer? A strategic partnership to dismantle The Bloodline from within.
CM Punk and Seth Rollins Speak Their Minds
Understanding the gravity of his choice, Rhodes sought advice from CM Punk and World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins. Punk, known for his no-nonsense approach, was blunt. He warned Rhodes that deals with legends like The Rock often come with a price. “Do you really think he’s doing this for you, or is he playing his own game?” Punk asked, cautioning Rhodes against losing sight of his personal redemption story.
Meanwhile, Seth Rollins, who has had his own battles with The Bloodline, provided a different perspective. “If you want to finish your story, finish it on your own terms,” Rollins said. “You’ve come this far without anyone’s help—why start now?” Rollins’ words seemed to resonate with Cody, who has always prided himself on carving his own legacy.
A Tense Confrontation with Roman Reigns
As Rhodes continued to deliberate, Undisputed Champion Roman Reigns, flanked by Paul Heyman and Solo Sikoa, interrupted the show. Reigns mocked Cody’s predicament, claiming that indecision is the mark of a weak leader. “You either stand on your own and fail, or you take The Rock’s hand and become his puppet,” Reigns taunted.
The tension escalated as Cody, rather than responding with words, stood toe-to-toe with Reigns, sending an unspoken message that he would make his decision on his own time.
What’s Next for Cody Rhodes?
By the end of the night, Cody had yet to officially accept or reject The Rock’s offer, leaving WWE fans in suspense. With WrestleMania drawing closer, the decision could change everything—not just for Rhodes but for the entire WWE landscape.
Will Cody align with The Rock to take down The Bloodline, or will he choose to battle alone and risk it all for the championship? The WWE Universe will have to wait for his answer in the coming weeks.