The stage was set for one of the most highly anticipated matches in WrestleMania history—Roman Reigns defending the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Cody Rhodes on Sunday night at WrestleMania XL. The energy inside Lincoln Financial Field was electric as fans eagerly awaited the culmination of a story that had been building for over a year.
Cody Rhodes made his entrance first, the WWE Universe roaring in approval as “Kingdom” blared through the arena. With determination in his eyes, he walked to the ring, knowing this was his chance to finally “finish the story” and claim the championship that had eluded his legendary family. Then came Roman Reigns, accompanied by Paul Heyman and members of The Bloodline, his aura of dominance undeniable. As he slowly walked down the ramp, holding the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship high, the crowd erupted in a mix of cheers and boos, recognizing the historic reign he had built over the last four years.
The bell rang, and the two warriors circled each other, tension palpable. They locked up, testing each other’s strength before Reigns used his power advantage to shove Rhodes into the corner. Cody, undeterred, fired back with quick strikes and a dropkick that sent Reigns to the mat. The early minutes saw a series of counters and reversals, with Cody using his agility to keep Reigns on the defensive.
As the match progressed, Reigns took control, grounding Rhodes with a series of power moves, including a devastating powerbomb for a near-fall. The Tribal Chief methodically worked over Cody, wearing him down with brutal strikes and submission holds. With Heyman barking orders from ringside, Reigns exuded confidence, taunting Rhodes and questioning his ability to dethrone him.
Rhodes, feeding off the crowd’s energy, fought back with resilience. He countered a Superman Punch into a snap powerslam before hitting a Cody Cutter for a close two-count. The near-fall sent the crowd into a frenzy, sensing that Cody was within reach of victory. Reigns, however, responded with a thunderous Spear, but to his shock, Rhodes kicked out at the last moment.
Frustration setting in, Reigns looked to put Cody away with a Guillotine Choke, a move that had sealed victories against countless opponents. But Rhodes refused to fade, summoning all his strength to escape. As the match neared its climax, The Bloodline attempted to interfere, but Cody battled them off, showing he was prepared for their tactics.
In a dramatic closing sequence, Cody countered another Spear attempt and delivered multiple Cross Rhodes. With the WWE Universe on its feet, he covered Reigns for the three-count, finally capturing the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.
As the realization sank in, Rhodes celebrated, tears in his eyes, holding the title high. His journey, filled with adversity and redemption, had reached its climax. WrestleMania XL would forever be remembered as the night Cody Rhodes finished the story.
