The Rising Tensions Between Cody Rhodes and John Cena
The rivalry between Cody Rhodes and John Cena reached new heights during the latest episode of WWE Monday Night Raw in London. Their exchanges were laden with intensity, drawing in both fans and notable figures from the wrestling world, including mention of Tony Khan and The Rock. However, the most shocking reference came when Rhodes alluded to Vince McMahon, a name WWE has notably avoided since his resignation in disgrace in 2024. This bold mention marks a significant moment in WWE’s current narrative.
Cody Rhodes (Almost) Referenced Vince McMahon on WWE Programming
Crowd Reaction to the McMahon Mention
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This intense promo exchange was the turning point WWE needed to elevate the unfolding rivalry ahead of WrestleMania 41. Cena, taking on a heel persona, unleashed a torrent of verbal jabs at Rhodes, critiquing everything from his championship reign to his authenticity. Instead of being overwhelmed, Rhodes stood his ground, reminding Cena of the support he receives from the WWE Universe.
“I didn’t expect to say this. Maybe you’re right. Maybe I was chosen. But you know who chose me? [The WWE Universe] chose me. Can you say the same, John Cena? Or was it one guy in an office who chose you who’s not here anymore, and we don’t talk about him?”
This moment marked the first time since McMahon’s exit that a WWE performer made a pointed reference to him, linking Cena’s rise in the organization directly to McMahon’s controversial legacy. Rhodes’ comments highlighted the frustrations of many wrestlers who felt stifled under a regime that directly influenced their careers.
Cody Demonstrates He Can Outshine Cena on the Mic
Siri, Play “Meet the Grahams”by Kendrick Lamar
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When it comes to on-mic promos, few can rival John Cena’s skill. Matches against Roman Reigns and The Rock have shown him at his best, often leaving opponents grappling for words. However, in this critical segment, Rhodes seized the opportunity to showcase his own prowess, hitting back hard:
“Everyone’s so terrified of you on the mic – I’m not, because I know you’ve got more d*** in that promo than you do in your shorts. You want to make fun of me for appearing like I’m 16 and taking public speaking lessons? Well, you’re the one who hangs out with Zac Efron and wishes he was 16. And what a softball! Thank you, John! What a softball you’ve thrown me by saying you created all of this. You created me. Here’s what you created, pal. You created a lot of disenfranchised fans who made it easy for me to pack up and go elsewhere and say ‘Hey, look at me!'”
Despite Rhodes’ sharp retorts, Cena also managed to land a damning comeback, reminding fans of his ability to create success while taking a shot at Rhodes and AEW:
“I make empires for billionaires. All you’ve ever done is steal money from their kids.”
This fiery exchange raised the stakes for their upcoming match, blending storyline drama with real-life implications, leaving fans questioning the authenticity of the rivalry.
Assessing the Winner of the Cena and Rhodes Promo Battle
It’s Truly a Close Call
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Cena, known for his fierce mic skills, delivered a blistering performance that set the evening’s tone. Despite this, Rhodes used the chance to reaffirm his position as a top tier talent within WWE, countering Cena’s criticisms with pointed remarks that resonated with the audience.
While Cena’s insults tapped into criticisms many fans hold against Rhodes for being overly polished, Rhodes effectively dismantled this argument by speaking to the larger issues that caused wrestlers to venture elsewhere. Though John Cena may have won the crowd over with his flashy delivery, Cody’s sharp, targeted rebuttals proved he can hold his own in this rivalry.
In a nutshell, after witnessing this exchange, one could argue that Rhodes played the role of Kendrick Lamar to Cena’s Drake in London, asserting himself as a formidable competitor just days before their climactic showdown at WrestleMania 41.