Cody Rhodes is marking a remarkable milestone this week as he celebrates one full year as the Undisputed WWE Champion. This impressive feat has positioned him among the elite, becoming the 10th wrestler in WWE history to hold the company’s most esteemed title for at least 365 consecutive days. Rhodes first claimed the championship in the main event of WrestleMania XL on April 7, 2024, by vanquishing Roman Reigns and effectively ending “The Tribal Chief’s”formidable reign.
Throughout this year, Rhodes has defended his title successfully on eight occasions during memorable WWE television events and premium live shows. As he faces the legendary John Cena at WrestleMania 41 later this month, it’s time to celebrate “The American Nightmare’s”extraordinary first year as the undisputed face of WWE. Let’s revisit some of his most thrilling matches during this period.
5
Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns – WrestleMania XL
Finishing The Story
The inception of Rhodes’ title reign is arguably its most electrifying moment. After experiencing the crushing disappointment of losing the main event in WrestleMania 39 and a tag match against Reigns and The Rock the night prior, Rhodes entered the Bloodline Rules Match as an underdog against Reigns. The match was further complicated by interventions from all members of The Bloodline, including The Rock. However, Rhodes found allies in John Cena, Seth Rollins, Jey Uso, and The Undertaker.
At a critical juncture, it appeared that Reigns would secure victory with a steel chair aimed at Rhodes. Yet, when Rollins made a surprise appearance in his classic Shield attire, it distracted Reigns just enough. Seizing this opportunity, Rhodes executed three consecutive Cross Rhodes moves, ultimately dethroning Reigns after an astonishing 1,316-day title reign.
4
Cody Rhodes vs. AJ Styles – Backlash
Simply Phenomenal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-fZLfWbuHE
The pattern of Rhodes’ championship feuds often suggests that one match tends to be insufficient, resulting in a series of title defenses that may fade into obscurity. However, his inaugural title defense against AJ Styles at Backlash created a lasting impression, largely due to the 11,000-plus fans fervently chanting “Il est vraiment phénoménal (He is really phenomenal)!” for Styles, producing such resonance that it rattled the cameras in the arena. While Rhodes’ victory was certain, the electric atmosphere of that match will forever remain memorable.
3
Cody Rhodes vs. Solo Sikoa (Steel Cage Match) – WWE SmackDown
Rhodes Vs. The Bloodline Rages On
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GDt7ks0CWuk
Whether Solo Sikoa is destined for main event status in WWE is still a topic of debate, yet his encounters with both Rhodes and Reigns have often left fans wanting more. However, their Steel Cage Match on September 13 during WWE SmackDown stood out as the pinnacle of their rivalry. In this contest, Rhodes elevated Sikoa as a formidable opponent, particularly with an unforgettable dive off the top of the cage. The ensuing chaos involving Sikoa’s Bloodline and Reigns established anticipation for their next major clash at the upcoming Bad Blood premium live event.
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Cody Rhodes & Roman Reigns vs. Solo Sikoa & Jacob Fatu – Bad Blood
Never Before, Never Again
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CwJOvN07K4
Typically, pitting Rhodes and Reigns together against The Bloodline would seem like just another filler story between significant arcs. However, WWE turned this match into an engaging narrative, complete with pre-taped promos leading up to the event and exciting moments, such as Jimmy Uso’s comeback and a surprising appearance by The Rock. While speculation surrounds the significance of The Rock’s cameo, it intriguingly ties back to John Cena’s heel turn seen months later, contributing to the allure of long-term storytelling in wrestling.
1
Cody Rhodes vs. Kevin Owens (Ladder Match) – Royal Rumble
Sheer Brutality
Kevin Owens has faced a string of disappointments in his quest for the WWE Championship, with multiple near-misses against Rhodes. In their high-stakes Ladder Match at the 2025 Royal Rumble, WWE expertly crafted the narrative to suggest that this could be Owens’ moment of triumph. The tension was palpable as he showcased powerful moves, including his classic Package Piledriver, while carrying around the nostalgic “Winged Eagle”WWE Championship, further fueling expectations of an upset.
Conversely, Rhodes displayed a more brutal persona throughout the match, mercilessly attacking Owens and providing a glimpse into what a potential heel turn could look like for the champion. The striking image of Rhodes standing tall over an incapacitated Owens and a distressed Sami Zayn, with both championship belts in his possession, tantalized fans with the prospect of darker storylines in the future.