WWE has treated Cody Rhodes like a bona fide Superstar since he made his return to the company. As Cody continues the mission to finish his story, that doesn’t give a lot of time to lose matches. 

Cody Rhodes’ Big Loss

Monday’s WWE Raw kicked off with Cody Rhodes against Drew McIntyre. The match took a dramatic turn when The Bloodline intervened to assist McIntyre. 

Jimmy Uso’s interference led to his ejection from ringside, while Solo Sikoa made his presence felt by attacking Rhodes with a Samoan spike. As he seized the opportunity, McIntyre delivered a devastating Claymore Kick to secure the victory via pinfall, which marked a very rare loss for The American Nightmare. 

According to CageMatch.net, this loss represents Rhodes’ first television singles match defeat since May 2016, when he was known as Stardust and lost to Zack Ryder on an episode of Superstars. Since returning to WWE at WrestleMania 38 in 2022, Rhodes has only suffered singles match losses to Reigns and Brock Lesnar on television or premium live events. 

Rhodes’ most recent loss took place last November on WWE RAW, when he and Jey Uso dropped the Undisputed Tag Team Titles to The Judgment Day. Since then, WWE has protected him in a big way, but they also gave a huge win to Drew McIntyre this week in the process.

What’s Next For Cody Rhodes in WWE

This defeat comes as Rhodes prepares to challenge Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Title at WrestleMania 40. Additionally, Rhodes and World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins are scheduled to appear on the Grayson Waller Effect at Elimination Chamber this Saturday, where WWE is anticipated to finalize a match between Rhodes & Rollins and The Rock & Reigns for the first night of WrestleMania. 

That Solo Sikoa interference was the same spot that saw Cody lose to Roman at WrestleMania 39. Odds are, WWE is setting fans up for the same spot at Mania 40, but Cody will kick out next time. 

SEScoops will have continued coverage of this story, and many more, on the road to WrestleMania 40.

Tonight’s Elimination Chamber go-home episode of Raw was filled with many notable moments and this trend continued even after the show from Honda Center in Anaheim, California went off air.

The show opened with a PPV quality match between Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes. The two competed in a hard-fought bout for nearly 20 minutes.

McIntyre interestingly came out with a victory in this match after Solo Sikoa interfered. This was Rhodes’ first Televised singles loss since May 2023, when Brock Lesnar beat Cody at Night of Champions.

Apart from this the show also featured Chad Gable picking up an impressive submission victory over Ivar and a returning Raquel Rodriguez earning her spot in the Women’s Chamber match for the upcoming show.

What Happened After Raw

The main event of this week’s Raw saw Gunther defending his IC Title against Jey Uso, as the Ring General overtook Pedro Morales to become the longest-reigning IC Champion for combined days.

Just like the opening match, this bout also ended with an interference from a Bloodline member. This time, Jimmy Uso helped Gunther pick up the victory over his twin brother.

Jimmy attacked his brother after this match and the show went off air with The Bloodline member standing tall. Though he didn’t leave the ring even after the broadcast ended and Uso only retreated when Cody Rhodes made the save.

After coming out to help Jey, Rhodes introduced another big name. He asked CM Punk who had been backstage for the show to come out. The Straight Edge star finally cut a short promo for the crowd before ending the night.

• Michael Chandler Uses WWE RAW Appearance To Call Out Conor McGregor

WWE saw a huge shift in their creative direction when Then Rock returned to television. He found himself in the ring with Cody Rhodes, as they hugged before The Great One had a showdown with Roman Reigns. Everything happened very quickly after that, and we all know how everything escalated after that. Anthony Ogogo saw that footage, and it rocked his world as well.

Anthony Ogogo Reacts To Cody Rhodes & The Rock’s Segment

Anthony Ogogo recently spoke with Boxing Scene, where Cody’s segment with The Rock came up. That was a bit of a mind-blowing experience for him to see, because he knows The American Nightmare and has shared the ring with him.

“I saw Cody in the ring with The Rock the other day, I saw it on YouTube, over a 100m views or whatever and I thought…” 

After he took a moment to pause, Ogogo continued to say, “I took a screenshot. And I just thought, ‘F*ck. I was in the ring with him a couple of years ago, now he’s in with the biggest star in the world.’”

Anthony Ogogo then revealed what he texted Cody Rhodes after that momentous segment on WWE television.  

Everyone knows The Rock. “I’m happy for Cody. He’s a very good professional wrestler. He’s worked hard. He’s bet on himself. I’m happy for him.” “And I text Cody and said, ‘Mate, this is one of the coolest things I’ve seen in a long time. Buzzing for you. Go get it’. That’s what I text him. And I mean that, it’s a big thing for him.”

Cody Rhodes will get a chance to finish his story after all, because fans spoke out and cause The Rock to pivot from his original plan. 

WWE Changed WrestleMania Plans

I exclusively reported on SEScoops that a source within WWE confirmed that The Rock initially intended to have a match with Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40. The current scenario regarding the show was not The Rock’s original preference, indicating that it was not part of a preconceived plan from the outset. He then conceded that Cody Rhodes vs Roman Reigns should be the main event match.

I was later told that “The Rock conceded it should be Roman vs Cody.” It was Dwayne Johnson’s call to switch things up, and now Cody vs Roman is the main event of WrestleMania. At this point, a tag team match with The Rock joining the Bloodline seems to be the direction against Cody and Seth Rollins.

Fans online are appreciating Cody Rhodes’s kind gesture towards a blind fan at the recent WWE live event in Fresno, California. The heart-warming moment, captured on camera, has been viewed 17,000 times on X.

At the WWE: Road To WrestleMania SuperShow event held at the Save Mart Center in Fresno on February 18, Cody Rhodes faced off against Shinsuke Nakamura in a Street Fight match and emerged victorious in the night’s main event. 

Following the match, he addressed the fans in the arena to finish the evening. Rhodes expressed his gratitude towards the enthusiastic Fresno crowd, stating, “I really appreciate it. There’s one sign that has caught my eye. It’s over here and it says, ‘Blindness can’t stop me from seeing Cody.'”

The audience in the arena couldn’t help but appreciate the heart-warming sign. In a gesture of gratitude, Rhodes approached the barricade to meet the fan at her seat. 

The fan’s husband took to X and shared a photo of them together with the wrestler, expressing, “My wife meeting Cody Rhodes tonight was a dream come true! Cody, she is blind and loves you so much! You reading her sign made her world! Thank you!”

My wife meeting Cody Rhodes tonight was a dream come true! Cody she is blind and loves you so much! You reading her sign made her world! Thank you! @CodyRhodes @WWE #WWEFresno pic.twitter.com/akgi425eol

— Tyler (@tomahawk106) February 19, 2024

Last night Cody spotted a sign that said "Blindness can't stop me from seeing Cody"

So he decides to go out to the fan and hug them

This is what its all about man ?

?@TimmyBuddy pic.twitter.com/1WhEXF1fup

— Julian Weeks (@JulianWks) February 19, 2024

The audience in the arena naturally appreciated The American Nightmare’s sweet gesture, with chants of Cody’s name echoing throughout. Online, people are also showing their love, dubbing him “The people’s champ” and hoping for a lengthy reign if he clinches the championship.

The title in question is the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, which Rhodes is slated to compete against Roman Reigns for at WrestleMania 40, set to take place at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

AEW star Darby Allin recently explained why he mentioned former AEW VP and current WWE star Cody Rhodes during his recent promo on AEW Dynamite.

Darby Allin and ‘The Icon’ Sting are set to team up for latter’s retirement match against The Young Bucks at AEW Revolution pay-per-view next month. Ahead of the highly- anticipated battle, Darby Allin grabbed the attention as he namedropped Cody Rhodes on the February 14 February edition of AEW Dynamite. The reference took fans by surprise and the former TNT Champion has explained his decision to mention WWE Superstar in hyping the upcoming bout.

Darby Allin gives credit to Cody Rhodes 

During a recent interview with Digital Spy, Allin addressed his decision to mention ‘The American Nightmare’ though the latter is not signed with AEW anymore.

“That’s easy because he’s the reason I’m in AEW. You think back to my debut, I wrestled him at Fyter Fest and we went a 20-minute Broadway draw. For him to take a chance on me that early… I was relatively super unknown still, I was never really the guy on the independent scene. He did that. You’ve got to give respect where respect is due. I feel very strongly on paying homage to how I got here because I never thought I was going to get here.”

Allin also addressed online criticism after his he cut the promo but he highlighted the importance of his history with the company and mentioned Rhodes’ contribution in his career and in the company overall. He said:

“I only pay attention to what I think, I really don’t care about what anyone else thinks. You’ve just got to listen to yourself about things. I really felt it was important for me to tell my part of the story leading into that match and not just be this second-rate character going into the match. I have a lot of things I wanted to say to the Young Bucks and I said it and so be it. I just want to go out there and speak my mind on things.”

Allin will team with Sting to defend the AEW Tag Team Championship against The Young Bucks (Matthew and Nicholas Jackson) at AEW Revolution pay-per-view on March 3 at Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, North Carolina.

WWE Superstar Grayson Waller has continued to pull off heel tactics and took a jab at 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble winner Cody Rhodes.

‘The American Nightmare’ recently won the Men’s Royal Rumble for the second time and he is on his Road to WrestleMania. While the road is bumpy, Rhodes is trying to overcome the hindrances and ‘finish his story.’ 

Cody Rhodes seemingly made the way for The Rock to challenge Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40 but that soon changed. After fans outraged and WWE received , the main event was reverted back to the original plans of Roman Reigns vs Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Universal title match at ‘The Show of Shows.’

This year, Elimination Chamber is heading to Perth, Australia which is Grayson Waller’s homeland. Ahead of the show, the Aussie star decided to take a shot at Rhodes.

Grayson Waller claims to have finished his story before Cody Rhodes

During the flight to Australia, Grayson Waller stated that he already finished his book and highlighted the fact that at least someone in WWE can finish a story which is a jab at Cody Rhodes. 

“Halfway to Perth and already finished my book. At least someone in WWE can finish a story”

Halfway to Perth and already finished my book. At least someone in WWE can finish a story pic.twitter.com/RrJIEIPZOM

— Grayson Waller (@GraysonWWE) February 19, 2024

This is not the first time Grayson Waller provoked Cody Rhodes. Waller also poked fun at Cody for being slapped by The Rock during the WrestleMania 40 kick-off press conference.

At Elimination Chamber: Perth, Grayson Waller will host Cody Rhodes and WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins on his ‘The Grayson Waller Effect’ show. We will have to wait and see how it pans out.

The 2024 Elimination Chamber event will take place on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Optus Stadium in the Perth, Australia. The show will start at 5:00 AM EST, and keep an eye on SEScoops for the coverage of the show.

On SmackDown this week, fans saw The Rock officially align with The Bloodline, but could it all be just a ruse by Rocky? One ECW Original has been taking notes during this whole saga between The Rock, Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes.

After The Rock returned back to his 1998 ways in the closing segment of SmackDown, Blue Meanie took to social media to present an interesting theory that all may be not what it seems regarding this notorious Samoan family tree.

“After watching last night’s Smackdown I have a feeling the Rock is joining the Bloodline on behalf of Cody to help distrupt the Bloodline from within. After the Rumble Cody looked like he was stepping down. The Rock whispered ‘something’ in Cody’s ear. The camera intentionally shoots Cody walking away down the aisle. We see Rock and Roman inch their way towards each other before the show goes off air. 

“At the press event the Rock says he’s challenging Roman for the title and on cue Cody interrupts says he’s challenging Roman at Mania after all. Cody tells the Rock and Roman that their grandfather’s would be ashamed of them. Rock initiated the contact before Roman could because this is all a ruse. He signifying that he is on Roman’s side.

“He’s further disarming Roman.  Last night on Smackdown the Rock comes out to ‘join’ the Bloodline. He cuts the heel promo. If you notice when they all do the finger point upwards, the Rock has his thumb out. The hand gesture commonly known as the ‘loser’ hand gesture.

“Basically Rock is signaling that he is there to help Roman lose to Cody at Mania because it’s actually The Rock who is ashamed of how Roman is acting. The Rock just had Cody say it at the press event that lead to the contact between Rock and Cody.

“Last year at Mania Cody was outnumbered by the Bloodline. This year, Seth Rollins and the Rock are his back up to any interference and will help Cody attain the goal of winning the title that his father never did. Just my 2 cents.”

1/ After watching last night's Smackdown I have a feeling the Rock is joining the Bloodline on behalf of Cody to help distrupt the Bloodline from within. After the Rumble Cody looked like he was stepping down. The Rock whispered "something" in Cody's ear.

— Brian Heffron aka The Blue Meanie (@BlueMeanieBWO) February 17, 2024

Whichever side The Rock may or may not be on, Cody Rhodes will indeed have a “shield” in Seth Rollins who came out on WWE Raw to show him added support. We may see something develop even further at Elimination Chamber as Cody and Seth are set to sit down in Perth as guests of “The Grayson Waller Effect.”

Paul Heyman believes that Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins are destined for the “Ocean of Obsurity” and the two stars will begin to set sail on this Friday’s SmackDown.

Heyman took to his Instagram to make a bold proclamation before both his “Tribal Chief” and “The People’s Champion” The Rock show up in Salt Lake City

Ladies and Gentlemen, today is a picture-perfect day to ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR TRIBAL CHIEF!

“As WWE tries to grasp the enormity of the events that transpired at the #WrestleMania Kickoff Event in Las Vegas, I remind you that yet another chapter shall unfold tomorrow, LIVE on FOX as #Smackdown will feature not only your humble #Wiseman and the reigning defending Undisputed #WWE Universal Heavyweight Champion Roman Reigns but also The #PeoplesChamp The Rock! 

“While Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins face an uncertain future, condemned to live life after #WM40 in the Ocean of Obscurity, it is quite apparent the #Bloodline’s rule on the Island of Relevancy has never been more powerful! The Delta Center in #SaltLakeCity will be the setting, and The People’s Slap was only the beginning of what’s to come next.”

“And that’s not a prediction.

“That’s a spoiler!”

https://www.instagram.com/p/p:C3YCc6nuATe

“The People’s Slap” sure conjured up a lot of conversation and on WWE Raw this past Monday, Cody Rhodes promised retaliation against The Rock. As Heyman mentioned, Rhodes will not be without a “Shield” in Seth Rollins who offered his helping hand in dealing with The Bloodline. 

Right now, it’s Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40, but where The Rock may fit in the equation remains a question mark, with many speculating a tag team match on night one.

The Rock is back for another road to WrestleMania, but the match he’s getting isn’t the one he originally wanted. It was his call the whole time to make that change, as I reported several times before. It turns out that Dwayne Johnson was convinced to let Cody Rhodes have the main event match, but it took a lot of backlash.  

WrestleMania 40 Plans Changed

I exclusively reported on SEScoops that a source within WWE confirmed that The Rock initially intended to have a match with Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40. The current scenario regarding the show was not The Rock’s original preference, indicating that it was not part of a preconceived plan from the outset. He then conceded that Cody Rhodes vs Roman Reigns should be the main event match.

I was told that “The Rock conceded it should be Roman vs Cody.”

Follow Up: I was able to confirm that Rock's original plan was to have a match with Roman. It wasn't the situation we have now. After all the negative reaction, Rock conceded it should be Roman vs Cody.

A tag team match at WrestleMania seems to be the direction now, with Rock &… https://t.co/jyEqNKjnSP

— Aaron (@AaronVarble) February 12, 2024

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter confirmed that report, saying that it was The Rock’s decision to book at tag team match for Night 1 of WrestleMania 40. The word “conceded” was even used in Dave Meltzer’s report.

There is said to be far more behind the scenes that hasn’t come out but given the timing can’t be talked about now. But Johnson over the weekend said it was best to be out of the Reigns match, put Cody in, which by this point everyone conceded by then. It was Johnson who then pitched the heel turn, and he did pitch the idea of the Reigns & Rock vs. Rhodes & Rollins match for night one. So that was his idea if that is how it turns out. 

From the very beginning, I reported that plans were locked in, and the only person who could change things is The Rock. That is exactly what happened, much to the delight of “Cody crybabies” all over, who want to see The American Nightmare finish his story.

Why The Match Was Changed

The Rock publicly expressed his desire for a match against Roman Reigns on January 1st, appearing during the Day 1 episode of RAW. Subsequently, the match was arranged shortly thereafter, despite Cody Rhodes winning the 2024 Royal Rumble match. Notably, Triple H was aware of the agreement for Rock vs Reigns.

Negative fan reaction, and mainstream attention on the matter, caused Rock to make a call to pivot. That being said, he will now apparently play up the heel gimmick on WWE television for the Cody crybabies.

Seth Rollins and Cody Rhodes will have a unique role at this month’s WWE Elimination Chamber PLE as the guests on the Grayson Waller Effect. 

In a video shared on WWE’s Twitter account, Waller spoke about being sick and tired of hearing about ‘stories.’ Waller also poked fun at Cody for being slapped by The Rock during the WrestleMania 40 kick-off press conference last week. Despite this, Waller recognized Cody’s quest against the Bloodline as “the biggest story in entertainment.” 

The self-professed Prime Minister of Australia then said that he’d bring this story to his home country. Waller then confirmed that he will be giving the ‘Grayson Waller Rub’ to Cody Rhodes & Seth Rollins at WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth. 

BREAKING: @GraysonWWE just announced on @WWETheBump that @CodyRhodes and @WWERollins will be joining him on The #GWEffect at #WWEChamber: Perth!??? pic.twitter.com/uG0WJJgiJr

— WWE (@WWE) February 14, 2024

The Grayson Waller Effect

Waller will no doubt be hoping that this edition of the Grayson Waller effect goes better than the last time he hosted Cody Rhodes. At WWE Payback, Rhodes was the guest on Waller’s show but would introduce Jey Uso as Raw’s newest Superstar. After Waller got in Jey’s face, the ‘Main Event’ talent would attack the Australian.

WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth

Here is the card for WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth as it currently stands: 

• The Judgment Day (Finn Bálor and Damian Priest) (c) vs. Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate (Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships)

• Becky Lynch vs. Bianca Belair vs. Liv Morgan vs. 3 TBD (Elimination Chamber match for a Women’s World Championship match at WrestleMania XL)

• Rhea Ripley (c) vs. Nia Jax (WWE Women’s World Championship)

• Drew McIntyre vs. Randy Orton vs. Bobby Lashley vs. LA Knight vs 2 TBD (Elimination Chamber match for a World Heavyweight Championship match at WrestleMania XL)

What other events can the WWE Universe look forward to in 2024… 

Cody Rhodes found out the hard way what happens when you speak ill of the Bloodline at the WrestleMania 40 kick-off event, according to The Rock.

Last week’s event saw some of WWE’s top Superstars in attendance. At the press conference, Roman Reigns made clear he intended to face The Rock at WrestleMania 40 in April. Cody Rhodes threw a wrench into these plans by declaring he would be challenging the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion in Philadelphia

Cody Rhodes Found Out

During his promo against The Rock and Roman Reigns, Cody said that their ancestors would be ashamed to see the two attempts to monopolize the WrestleMania main event scene. This comment drew the ire of The Rock, who slapped the American Nightmare. Rhodes would be backed up by new ally Seth Rollins, though the four men did not come to further blows. 

Taking to Instagram, The Rock reflected on slapping Cody with some choice words for “your hero.” 

“Your hero f***** around and he found out quick what happens when you talk about our family with disrespect.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/reel:C3Nu69cRpTb

What’s Next?

On this week’s Raw, Rollins offered to be a ‘shield’ for Rhodes against the might of the Bloodline. There has been speculation that a tag team match could happen, especially given the WrestleMania 40 trailer aired at the Super Bowl. The Rock and Reigns seem to be on the same page, as the pair were spotted together following the WrestleMania kick-off press conference. On last week’s SmackDown, Triple H made clear that his decision is final regarding the WrestleMania main event, and encouraged The Rock and others to “know your role.” 

WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes yet again shared a heartwarming moment with a fan during this week’s Monday Night Raw.

‘The American Nightmare’ has proven several times why he’s a fan favorite. Even though he is a popular name in the pro wrestling industry, he has always tried to establish a personal connection with his fans.

At WWE shows, Cody Rhodes frequently makes time to greet fans, sign autographs, and take pictures. Cody’s modest demeanor has made a lasting impression on fans, regardless of the magnitude of the wrestling shows. He attempts to make every interaction unique and to make sure that his supporters feel valued and appreciated at the end of the day.

Cody Rhodes gifts his weight belt and shoes

The latest edition of WWE Monday Night Raw, emanated from the Kupp Arena in Lexington, KY. After WWE’s flagship show came to a close, Cody Rhodes had an interaction with a fan on birthday. 

After the show went off the air, Rhodes delivered a promo for the Lexington crowd. During his promo, he gave away a pair of his shoes to a kid in the audience. 

The 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble winner also gave away his weight belt, which he usually gives to the fans during his entrances. Cody went on to take pictures and shook hands with the fans concluding a great night for the fans.

@CodyRhodes gave away his shoes off his feet after Raw tonight pic.twitter.com/4nfkUs4wHr

— Mack?? (@Mack_Ripley3) February 13, 2024

CODY GAVE AWAY HIS SHOES TONIGHT @CodyRhodes

— hayley (@unstablemiz) February 13, 2024

Thank you @CodyRhodes and John Cone for making Gracie’s birthday that much more special and making her wish come true @WWE #RAW #WeWantCody #NightmareFamily #WWE #Lexington pic.twitter.com/xAQ29D0WR1

— Kris Dizzle (@krisdizzlekd) February 13, 2024

Cody Rhodes will face Drew McIntyre next week

During the show, Cody Rhodes spoke to the WWE Universe for the first time after he decided that he would challenge Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania 40. ‘

The American Nightmare’ also made the save for Sami Zayn and helped fend off Drew McIntyre and Shinsuke Nakamura during their post-match assault on Zayn at the end of the show.

It was announced that Rhodes will face Drew McIntyre in a singles match next week.

Meanwhile, the show also featured a six-man tag team match with WWE Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER and fellow Imperium members Ludwig Kaiser and Giovanni Vinci taking on Jey Uso and The New Day. 

There were also three Elimination Chamber qualifying matches on the show as LA Knight and Bobby Lashley qualified for the Men’s Elimination Chamber match while Liv Morgan qualified for the Women’s Elimination Chamber match.

WWE has a lot of plans going down on the road to WrestleMania. This week on RAW, things really started heating up.

The American Nightmare has @TheRock on his mind…#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/DOPw9Dp56A

— WWE (@WWE) February 13, 2024

WrestleMania Momentum on RAW

Cody Rhodes made his way to the ring on WWE RAW this week, and he had a lot to say, He addressed The Rock’s actions, and what he said to him at the WrestleMania kickoff event.

Rhodes also said that The Rock slapped him, but “you slapped me across the face, and what that means is I’m gonna hit you right back.”

Seth Rollins then entered the situation, where he addressed Cody directly. Rollins said that Cody needs to finish his story for everyone, including Dusty Rhodes. He also had something very important to say to the American Nightmare.

"@TheRock, you slapped me across the face and what that means is I'm going to hit you back!"@CodyRhodes did NOT hold back on the ? on #WWERaw! pic.twitter.com/ujmnvi4oRq

— WWE (@WWE) February 13, 2024

Rollins told Cody that he doesn’t have to fight The Rock alone. He is sick and tired of people like The Rock and Roman Reigns, who he called “pricks” doing whatever they want and getting away with it.

By all appearance, it looks like Roman Reigns and The Rock are going to take on Seth Rollins and Cody Rhodes in a tag team match. That being said, Cody vs Roman is still going to happen.

"When it comes to fighting @TheRock and @WWERomanReigns, there is only one man on earth who is uniquely suited to be your shield…"@WWERollins has @CodyRhodes' back!#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/dOnaCj4tCw

— WWE (@WWE) February 13, 2024

WWE’s Changing WrestleMania Plans

I kept asking about The Rock’s WrestleMania plans possibly changing because the subject is certainly one of the hottest in pro wrestling right now.

A tenured member of the creative team told me last week before the Las Vegas WrestleMania kickoff event, “We have not been told of any change. That doesn’t mean the plan hasn’t changed. Or won’t change. Or this is all a plan anyway. It just means we’re not being told.”

In the end, it was all up to The Rock, who didn’t really care if he was booed or cheered at WrestleMania. WWE didn’t see those “Rocky Sucks” chants coming on RAW.

Thursday was interesting in Las Vegas. After the event, I was able to confirm that Rock’s original plan was to have a match with Roman. It wasn’t the situation we had then. After all the negative reaction, The Rock then conceded it should be Roman vs Cody.

A tag team match at WrestleMania seemed to be the direction then, with Rock & Roman vs Cody & Seth. Either way, Cody vs Roman then main evented night two of Mania 40.

Follow Up: I was able to confirm that Rock's original plan was to have a match with Roman. It wasn't the situation we have now. After all the negative reaction, Rock conceded it should be Roman vs Cody.

A tag team match at WrestleMania seems to be the direction now, with Rock &… https://t.co/jyEqNKjnSP

— Aaron (@AaronVarble) February 12, 2024

The Rock returned to WWE under very interesting circumstances. He wanted a match against Roman Reigns that has been a long time coming, but fans wanted to see Cody Rhodes finish his story. Now, we have a much different picture for the WrestleMania main event than The Rock wanted to.

The Rock Embracing The Dark Side

It was reported that The Rock taking a seat on TKO’s Board of Directors came with a WrestleMania match attached. He got $30 million in company stock as a part of that deal.

Fans spoke out in massive fashion when Rock bumped Cody Rhodes out of his WrestleMania spot against Roman Reigns. Trends started online and the story got picked up by major mainstream outlets. 

Wrestle Votes reported on Twitter/X that WWE sources have said that The Rock is prepared to “fully embrace” his heel gimmick. It was also noted that WWE is expected to drop official Cody crybabies merchandise. 

Sources suggest that The Rock is expected to fully embrace his heel turn, drawing inspiration from his past ‘Hollywood’ Rock persona. Additionally, I’m told to anticipate the release of Rock branded ‘Cody Crybabies’ merchandise. The story is just beginning…

Sources suggest that The Rock is expected to fully embrace his heel turn, drawing inspiration from his past ‘Hollywood’ Rock persona. Additionally, I’m told to anticipate the release of Rock branded ‘Cody Crybabies’ merchandise. The story is just beginning…

— WrestleVotes (@WrestleVotes) February 12, 2024

Why WWE Changed The Rock’s WrestleMania 40 Plan (Exclusive)

I’ve been doing my best to stay up on this always-evolving storyline. As I originally reported, The Rock was the one who needed to make the call to change this match. That is what finally happened after a ton of fans speaking out.

I keep asking about #TheRock's #WrestleMania? plans possibly changing, because that's all fans want at this point.

Last night, a tenured member of the creative team told me straight up: "We have not been told of any change. That doesn't mean the plan hasn't changed. Or won't…

— Aaron (@AaronVarble) February 7, 2024

A tenured source within WWE confirmed that The Rock’s original plan was to have a match with Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40. The current situation we have with the show of shows was not what The Rock originally wanted to do, so this was not all part of an elaborate plan from the jump.

The Rock called his shot for a match against Roman Reigns on January 1st when he showed up during the Day 1 episode of RAW. Then, the match was agreed to shortly after that, with Cody Rhodes winning the 2024 Royal Rumble match after that, despite Triple H knowing that Rock vs Reigns was agreed to. 

Along with mainstream outlets picking up the story about fan outrage, The Rock’s daughter, Ava, was also caught in the crossfire. She received death threats and later deactivated her Twitter/X account. The Rock also spoke up about this incident involving his daughter.

After all the negative reaction, I am told that “The Rock conceded it should be Roman vs Cody.” Fan reaction, and mainstream attention on the matter, caused Rock to make a call to pivot. That being said, he will now apparently play up the heel gimmick on WWE television for the Cody crybabies.

Follow Up: I was able to confirm that Rock's original plan was to have a match with Roman. It wasn't the situation we have now. After all the negative reaction, Rock conceded it should be Roman vs Cody.

A tag team match at WrestleMania seems to be the direction now, with Rock &… https://t.co/jyEqNKjnSP

— Aaron (@AaronVarble) February 12, 2024

WrestleMania 40 is coming to Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on April 6 and 7, 2024. The showcase of the immortals is coming together, and now they have a new trailer to share with fans.

We're on the Road to @WrestleMania!

Witness @TheRock, @WWERomanReigns, @CodyRhodes and @WWERollins square off in the #WrestleMania XL teaser trailer! pic.twitter.com/WBLPRHLavg

— WWE (@WWE) February 11, 2024

WrestleMania 40 Trailer

A new trailer dropped to hype WrestleMania 40. The short video featured The Rock, Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins. The video certainly seemed as if a tag team match was being teased now. 

Triple H hyped the trailer, as he quote posted the video along with a message. He plans to take things to a new level for WrestleMania 40, and he also included the legendary that he is known to ask fans.

“We’re taking WrestleMania XL to a whole new level. Are you ready?”

We’re taking #WrestleMania XL to a whole new level.

Are you ready? https://t.co/dqosj7kLSZ

— Triple H (@TripleH) February 11, 2024

What’s Next

During the WrestleMania 40 press conference in the T-Mobile Arena, many fans thought that The Rock and Roman Reigns would be the WrestleMania 40 main event. Then Cody Rhodes showed up to make his choice known. 

In the end, Cody Rhodes got his match against Roman Reigns. The Rock wasn’t happy about that, and he slapped The American Nightmare.

After The Rock and Roman Reigns left together, rumors started to spread about what the next plan is. Now, Cody Rhodes will get a chance to finish his story.

The Rock’s return to WWE caused shockwaves all over. Fans spoke out with a lot of unhappiness, because they didn’t like the idea of the Great One taking Cody Rhodes’ WrestleMania spot. Now, we are looking at what is next, and Seth Rollins saw the whole thing unfold.

During Thursday’s WWE WrestleMania 40 Kickoff event, Cody Rhodes announced his challenge to Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Title at WrestleMania 40.

Seth Rollins Speaks On The Rock

There was anticipation that WWE would unveil The Rock vs. Reigns instead, a plan that remains intact, while Rhodes was initially expected to challenge World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins.

The plan for Rock vs. Reigns had been kept under wraps last month following Dwayne Johnson’s appointment to the TKO Board of Directors. This arrangement was part of a deal that Johnson strongly advocated for, despite Rhodes expressing his desire to conclude his ongoing storyline.

While speaking with FOX News, Seth Rollins said that The Rock’s entire return to take a WrestleMania spot against Roman Reigns felt gross, but now it appears that Cody Rhodes is going to get what he wants.

“It’s just what happens when powerful people exert their power. They just think they do whatever they want and get away with it, and that sucks. It just sucks. I don’t know any other way to put it. I guess it (resulted) in Cody getting what he wanted. We’ll figure out what’s next for the World Heavyweight title. But Cody said it best. It’s bullsh*t. It feels pretty gross to me.”

What’s Next

We will have to see how WWE books WrestleMania 40 at this point. As we previously noted, there is an interesting expectation at this point.

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter noted that, “The press conference also ended with the idea of a Reigns & Rock vs. Rhodes & Rollins tag team match, which could be on day one at Mania.”

It is also important to note that three days ago, a tenured member of the creative team told me, “We have not been told of any change. That doesn’t mean the plan hasn’t changed. Or won’t change. Or this is all a plan anyway. It just means we’re not being told.”

I keep asking about #TheRock's #WrestleMania? plans possibly changing, because that's all fans want at this point.

Last night, a tenured member of the creative team told me straight up: "We have not been told of any change. That doesn't mean the plan hasn't changed. Or won't…

— Aaron (@AaronVarble) February 7, 2024

Triple H is set to be on SmackDown this week to address the current WrestleMania situation. SE Scoops will have continued coverage of the road to WrestleMania, because it’s anyone’s guess what they book at this point. 

WWE fans were left shocked by the press conference in Las Vegas. Although there are a lot of questions left to answer, we now have an idea how the WrestleMania main event matches are taking shape.

WWE’s Expected WrestleMania 40 Main Event Picture

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter noted that The Rock finalized a deal on January 3rd with Ari Emanuel and Nick Khan, not only securing a spot on the Board of Directors but also committing to headline WrestleMania this year. That match was presumably against Reigns. 

Dwayne Johnson mentioned that the storyline had been in the works for years. The Bloodline storyline with Roman Reigns has been going on for that long as well.

Following a non-press conference at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Reigns vs. Rhodes for WrestleMania was announced, with no additional match announcements beyond teasing the Rhea Ripley vs. Becky Lynch matchup. Ripley is set to face the winner of the Elimination Chamber match on February 24th in Australia. 

Although it’s believed that Rollins will defend against the winner of the men’s Chamber match at the same event, no such match has been confirmed. The tease for Rhodes vs. Rollins suggested that an announcement will likely be made in the coming week, but we’re waiting on official confirmation on that.

It was also reported that the current idea is a potential tag team clash between Reigns and Rock versus Rhodes and Rollins, possibly scheduled for day one at WrestleMania, for a main event match. During the conference, Rock turned heel on Rhodes after a dispute about families, siding with Reigns and slapping Rhodes, while Rollins sided with Rhodes during the whole thing.

The press conference also ended with the idea of a Reigns & Rock vs. Rhodes & Rollins tag team match, which could be on day one at Mania. Rock ended up going heel on Rhodes, slapping him in the face after an argument about families, and siding with Reigns. Rollins was out there at the time and ended up backing up Rhodes.

The Rock bitch slapping Cody Rhodes #CodyCryBabies pic.twitter.com/s5G4ho9b5W

— ? Old School Sam ? (@oldschoolsam10) February 9, 2024

WWE Tried To Book The Rock vs Roman Reigns Before

The matchup between Reigns and Rock had been discussed before the pandemic as a one-time return match, initially considered for WrestleMania in Dallas in 2022. However, Dwayne Johnson aimed for Los Angeles in 2023, later withdrawing due to time constraints, but he left Philadelphia in 2024 as a possibility. 

Rhodes was initially slated for the match against Roman Reigns due to The Rock pulling out last year, as Rhodes and Seth Rollins were reportedly set to create the second world title last year, which was delayed. Now, we find ourselves in a very interesting situation on the road to WrestleMania 40.

“And what is this match all about right here? WHO sits at the Head Of The Table? What does it matter when neither of you have been doing any of the cooking for TWO YEARS”

– Cody Rhodes to Roman Reigns & The Rock

THIS LINE WAS JUST ???@CodyRhodes pic.twitter.com/DB6G8Coovr

— Eleanor (@Its_Eleanor) February 9, 2024

Cody Rhodes made sure that a fan who won a WWE contest got prizes from the company, ten years after the promotion didn’t deliver the goods. 

Last month, a Twitter user by the name of Danny marked a whole decade since winning a Tribute to the Troops Holiday giveaway in January 2014. Danny was supposed to receive an event-themed T-shirt and a dog tag set, but never received either of these prizes. 

Just realized this week marks 10 full years since I won @WWE’s Tribute to the Troops Holiday Giveaway.

They still haven’t sent me my Tribute to the Troops dog tag set.

They think I’ve forgotten. They think the issue has just gone away. They’re wrong. I will not stay silent. pic.twitter.com/WuiDgPUJE4

— Danny (@dajosc11) January 11, 2024

Danny’s story caught the attention of Cody Rhodes, who told the fan to check his DMs. This week, Danny gave a positive update on his situation, revealing that Rhodes had sent him a T-Shirt, cap, and ‘American Nightmare’ belt. Danny was thrilled to receive the prizes and finish the story and now hopes to see Rhodes finish his at WrestleMania 40. 

How funny it all arrived today…

Apparently the Tribute to the Troops dog tags aren’t a thing anymore (SAD!), but Cody still came through.

I finished my story, now go finish yours. https://t.co/aOlPCPWMJT pic.twitter.com/YZrE3FQzjn

— Danny (@dajosc11) February 8, 2024

Cody Rhodes & The Fans

Danny’s situation is hardly the first time Rhodes has gone the extra mile for a wrestling fan. Last week, Rhodes got up close and personal with a visually impaired fan at a WWE event who held a sign saying they were trying to see him. This heartwarming interaction came about mere weeks after Rhodes agreed to be the Best Man at a fan’s wedding. 

At WWE live events, Cody has been competing in Extreme Rules matches and has been gifting pieces of a broken table to those in the crowd. After the final live Raw of 2023, Rhodes went even further and gifted a Christmas Tree to a fan. Speaking of the Holidays, Rhodes made one young fan’s season extra special by sending a signed Cody Rhodes authentic weight belt.

Cody Rhodes’ choice to face Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40 has had the wrestling world buzzing after a complicated road to this decision. 

Rhodes made his choice clear during the WrestleMania 40 kick-off press conference. Leading up to this event, there had been a lot of talk about who Cody would pick, especially after Rhodes said last week he wouldn’t be facing Reigns this April. A massive fan backlash may have influenced WWE’s decision, with the ‘We Want Cody’ movement being heard both at WWE events and on social media. 

The Wrestling World Reacts

Triple H was present for Cody’s decision at the WrestleMania 40 kick-off press conference. Taking to Twitter, the WWE’s Chief Content Officer made it clear that the decision has been made. 

Decision made. @CodyRhodes gets the chance to finish his story when he challenges @WWERomanReigns in the main event of #WrestleMania XL. pic.twitter.com/A12apAnELf

— Triple H (@TripleH) February 9, 2024

WWE U.S Champion Logan Paul had backed Cody Rhodes in the run-up to the press conference. On social media, Paul shared a video of his reaction to Cody’s decision and The Rock slapping him. 

Let him cook @CodyRhodes pic.twitter.com/q6dvtHuWBP

— Logan Paul (@LoganPaul) February 9, 2024

Cody’s fellow AEW alum Amanda Huber spoke highly of Rhodes and is excited to see him finish the story in April. 

If you want to know the type of man @CodyRhodes (and @WWEBigE )is, he drove 5+ hours the day after Christmas to be in the room with me to tell Brodie Jon was going to pass.

He held him as he cried. Then he took him to the beach and filed kites.

If he’s not the type of human… pic.twitter.com/ovhHp8r2Pp

— Amanda (@MandaLHuber) February 9, 2024

TNA Wrestling’s Nic Nemeth used some political satire to explain what’s going on with the Cody Rhodes/Roman Reigns/The Rock dynamic. 

What an insane press conference!
Biden appears to be in trouble, not just polling-wise. And quickly forcing an outsider to take his place for 2024, would appear to jump Kamala,
(who’s polling even lower than biden)

— Nic Nemeth (@NicTNemeth) February 9, 2024

With Cody Rhodes not challenging for the World Heavyweight Championship, Drew McIntyre is pleased that his quest to win the gold became all that much clearer. 

https://t.co/Ezv9zxgAfD pic.twitter.com/856cSZuK3F

— Drew (@DMcIntyreWWE) February 9, 2024

Cody’s wife Brandi used some emojis to share her excitement for the upcoming match. 

?????? https://t.co/nJw7YVfrvJ

— Brandi Rhodes (@TheBrandiRhodes) February 9, 2024

And as for the man of the hour himself, Cody Rhodes had a clear message after challenging Roman Reigns. 

For everything https://t.co/vmwuYwngkZ

— Cody Rhodes (@CodyRhodes) February 9, 2024

WrestleMania 40 will take over Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on April 6th and 7th. This year’s Mania event will be a massive one, and they set the stage in Las Vegas.

Witness an iconic face-off between @TheRock and @WWERomanReigns! Plus, @CodyRhodes, @WWERollins, @RheaRipley_WWE and @BiancaBelairWWE get the Road to #WrestleMania underway on the #WrestleMania XL Kickoff! Delivered by @PizzaHut. https://t.co/NxcpHJbnjp

— WWE (@WWE) February 8, 2024

The Stage Is Set

Seth Rollins came out after Bianca Belair and Rhea Ripley had time to speak. Becky Lynch also interrupted Ripley to make it known that she wants to face Mami at Mania.

Rollins didn’t want to waste any time, so he invited Cody Rhodes out. However, Roman Reigns made his way out to the stage instead. As Rollins looked at his former Shield brother, the Tribal Chief raised his title for the T-Mobile Arena crowd.

Seth took a shot at Roman for showing up to work for once, but the Head of the Table wanted to talk about Cody Rhodes. Then Roman Reigns said that Cody didn’t make his decision, so he’s choosing The Rock.

The Rock Makes His Presence Known

Suddenly, The Rock made his way out to add even more star power to the situation. The Rock asked the crowd if they think Roman Reigns will beat him at WrestleMania, and there was a mixed response. Then he asked the same question with himself as the winner to the same mixed reaction.

When The Rock asked if fans think his match with Roman Reigns will be the biggest in WWE history, fans were not happy about that either. After Dwayne Johnson said that he loves the fans’ passion, fans stopped him with “We want Cody” and “Cody sucks” chants.

Johnson got even more boos when he introduced the world to the “Cody crybabies.” Then The Rock started getting tons of “what” chants as he introduced an image of the Bloodline family tree. He also said it doesn’t matter what fans think if they don’t believe that the Bloodline is the best family in pro wrestling.

Cody Rhodes Makes His Announcement

The Rock vs Roman Reigns was then hyped for WrestleMania as fans booed the announcement. Suddenly, Cody Rhodes came out and said, “this right here is bullsh*t.” He didn’t like how The Rock and Reigns were calling the shots, because Cody reminded them that he won the Royal Rumble.

Cody said he made his decision, and he will wrestle Roman Reigns in the main event of WrestleMania 40. Fans chanted as Reigns said that Cody must be crazy or stupid. He told Cody to go to the #2’s with Seth Rollins. He also said nobody cares about him finishing the story. Reigns said that Cody is irrelevant, just like his father.

OH IT'S GOING DOWN. ?@TheRock just slapped @CodyRhodes at the #WrestleMania XL Kickoff. pic.twitter.com/nN0MTYIoRk

— WWE (@WWE) February 9, 2024

Triple H, Nick Aldis, and Adam Pearce came out for backup as tensions raised. Cody told Roman that his grandfather would be ashamed of him if he was here. Then The Rock told Cody, “let me make something perfectly clear to you, when you talk about his family, you’re talking about my family.” It seems that The Rock wasn’t happy with Cody, and they suddenly had a problem.

The Rock slapped Cody across the face, and they needed to be broken up. Seth Rollins also had to be taken off the stage, but he said “I don’t give a sh*t if you’re on the board, you can’t do whatever you want,” as he left.

THE ROCK JUST SLAPPED CODY RHODES OH MY GOD.#WrestleMania pic.twitter.com/Goh4HJEkpX

— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) February 9, 2024

Now, it appears that Cody Rhodes vs Roman Reigns is going to happen at WrestleMania, but the story is far from over. Later on, Triple H was interviewed backstage when The Rock walked by, who said, “you’ve got to fix this, let him talk sh*t about our family again, you’ve got to fix this.”

Decision made. @CodyRhodes gets the chance to finish his story when he challenges @WWERomanReigns in the main event of #WrestleMania XL. pic.twitter.com/A12apAnELf

— Triple H (@TripleH) February 9, 2024

Just this week, a tenured member of the creative team told me, “We have not been told of any change. That doesn’t mean the plan hasn’t changed. Or won’t change. Or this is all a plan anyway. It just means we’re not being told.”

The Rock goes off on Triple H:#WrestleMania pic.twitter.com/3hXZJ3ESAQ

— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) February 9, 2024

SE Scoops will have continued coverage of the road to WrestleMania. It will likely be a wild ride. Keep checking back for even more updates.

I keep asking about #TheRock's #WrestleMania? plans possibly changing, because that's all fans want at this point.

Last night, a tenured member of the creative team told me straight up: "We have not been told of any change. That doesn't mean the plan hasn't changed. Or won't…

— Aaron (@AaronVarble) February 7, 2024

The Rock is in Las Vegas for the WrestleMania kickoff press conference, and fans can’t wait to see what goes down. As #WeWantCody intensifies, it is evident that The Rock’s return to WWE wasn’t a last-minute decision. He also had quite a promo to cut on fans who do not want to see him taking Cody Rhodes’s spot at WrestleMania 40.

Cody won two Royal Rumble matches in a row, and it appeared that he was calling his shot to face Roman Reigns again this year. Then, The Rock returned to re-start a dormant dream match idea, one that he wanted to pull the trigger on this year at WrestleMania. In the meantime, Cody has now said that he landed on a decision for WrestleMania.

The Rock Cuts Promo on Cody Crybabies

Rock calling out the “Cody Crybabies” pic.twitter.com/ZLeVhm5nmO

— SEScoops (@sescoops) February 8, 2024

The Rock realizes that fans are not happy about this, as he’s noticed his inbox and his mentions on social media. The trends are unavoidable, and WWE fans are blowing up social media with their opinions about this match. It doesn’t seem like The Rock cares, and he’s playing up the heel character.

During an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show, The Rock called upset fans “Cody crybabies.” Then he mocked “grown ass men” complaining that Cody can’t finish his story. He did so while taking on a baby voice.

The Great One then made it clear that there are three types of people in this situation, but those Cody crybabies definitely took up a majority of his focus.

“At the end of the day, you’ve got the Cody crybabies, you’ve got the Cody fans, and you’ve got Cody himself. And there’s a clear distinction between the three. But, The Rock says this those Cody crybabies who ever 10 tweets they’re shoving a chicken McNugget in their mouth, for every 20 tweets they’re shoving two McNuggets up their ass, The Rock says this: all you’ve gotta do is sit back, shut your mouth, and enjoy the ride The Rock is gonn take your candy asses on. So hashtag that.”

When The Rock Called His WrestleMania 40 Shot

After asking around days later, I received an additional note that said, “No chance this changes unless The Rock backs out. This has been The Rock calling the shot since January 1st.” That is when Rock showed up on the Day 1 episode of RAW and made his first head of the table comment.

When I asked if any of this fan backlash will change these prospective WrestleMania plans, I was told, “there’s no chance in hell.” The Rock is the only man who can make that change, as this WrestleMania match was also part of his $30 million TKO Board of Directors appointment.

A tenured member of the creative team later told me, “We have not been told of any change. That doesn’t mean the plan hasn’t changed. Or won’t change. Or this is all a plan anyway. It just means we’re not being told.”

I keep asking about #TheRock's #WrestleMania? plans possibly changing, because that's all fans want at this point.

Last night, a tenured member of the creative team told me straight up: "We have not been told of any change. That doesn't mean the plan hasn't changed. Or won't…

— Aaron (@AaronVarble) February 7, 2024

What’s Next for The Rock?

Dwayne Johnson is the only man who can change WWE’s WrestleMania booking plan. He promised that the WrestleMania press conference at the T-Mobile Arena will be historic. Only time will tell exactly how it all pans out in the end, but that “Cody crybabies” line isn’t going to win him many fans.

It appears that The Rock doesn’t care about being a heel. The Rock’s character exists in the first place because he let loose and really started to cut promos on fans. That Cody crybabies line is one that might come up on this road to WrestleMania, as The Rock urges fans to #ShutYourMouth.

WWE’s WrestleMania press conference in Las Vegas’s T-Mobile Arena tonight will be quite a show. SE Scoops will have coverage of the event.

Cody Rhodes won the 2023 and 2024 Royal Rumble event. He took on Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 39, and while it was thought that he would face Reigns again this year, The Rock stepped into the picture in a big way. All this time, Cody has yet to make a decision about his WrestleMania match.

Cody Makes A Decision

Cody Rhodes posted on his Instagram story to reveal that he has made his big WrestleMania decision. Of course, the choice is whether he will face Seth Rollins or Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40.

“I’ve made my decision.”

WWE WrestleMania Press Conference In Las Vegas

WWE has a big press conference event scheduled for tonight at 7:00 PM EST. The show will go down in Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena, a location that proves how long the company has had these plans in the works.

During Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer noted that WWE actually booked the T-Mobile Arena far in advance. This event wasn’t a late addition to anyone’s schedule.

“They had booked T-Mobile for Thursday with The Rock long ago, like someone there mentioned it in passing. It was, ‘it’s not like you can get T-Mobile Arena four days in advance for something that we’re changing.’ This thing was booked way in advance. This thing was, you know when I mentioned January 3rd, to make a date and have an agreement on January 3rd, there was pretty much an understanding well before that. They kept that one quiet. However it plays out, whatever it is, it’s working.”

Current Status Of WrestleMania 40 Main Event

In case you’re wondering, WWE has not changed their idea about The Rock vs Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40. The idea was floated out there by Dave Meltzer that WWE may have Roman Reigns wrestle The Rock on one night and then Cody Rhodes on another night of WrestleMania. I am awaiting confirmation to see whether that option was ever on the table.

I was explicitly told that The Rock acting as a special referee or WWE booking a triple threat match was never on the table for serious consideration. We will have to see what direction they go, but fans should be ready for a wild ride regardless.

WWE fans all over are talking about the WrestleMania main event. The Rock returned to presumably take Cody Rhodes’ spot against Roman Reigns, and people aren’t happy. Trends started as the WWE Universe is crying for Cody Rhodes to get his spot back, but odds are the match won’t change. If you ask LA Knight, he couldn’t care less.

LA Knight drew a ton of attention in 2023, and he sold a lot of merchandise as well. It’s WrestleMania season, and he is concentrated on securing a good match on the showcase of the immortals. That concentration doesn’t allow him to focus on other people’s matters.

LA Knight Speaks On WrestleMania Main Event

Knight said on Wes and Walker that it doesn’t matter to him who is in the WrestleMania main event match. He’s not in that match, and he is focused on his role at the show of shows, and making the biggest impression he can. 

It’s always exciting to have someone like The Rock come back, and fans are engaged. The more eyes that The Rock brings in only means that they will also see Knight in whatever match he lands on the show of shows. 

“Doesn’t really make a difference to me. Doesn’t affect me. I’m not involved in it, I don’t care. If any one of them ends up coming out as WWE Champion, then that’s the guy I’m aiming for. Is it always cool to have a guy like The Rock come in? Sure it is. Now you have a major movie star, a major star just in the world. A pop culture icon, you could say. To bring that in, you’re bringing in brand name recognition to where it might bring in extra eyes from the outside who might not otherwise be there.

If that’s the case, okay, I’m not arguing against that. It means more eyes on me, more eyes on SmackDown, more eyes on everything. In that regard, it’s not a bad thing. Some people are going to look down on it, some people aren’t. It’s not for everybody, but that’s the beauty of what we do, there is a little something for everybody. At the end of the day, in my regard, it really doesn’t make much difference to me. If Cody ends up being the champion, Roman Reigns is the champion, The Rock is champion, I’m still gunning for each and every one on them.”

WWE’s Plan for LA Knight at WrestleMania 40 

LA Knight does not have a match announced for WrestleMania 40 yet. There are several ways to go with him, and I can confirm that a title match has been one of those ideas. That doesn’t guarantee him a spot in a secondary title match, because there are a lot of options for him.

I was told by a tenured member of the creative team that there are “a lot of matches are being discussed for Mania, that’s one idea, but there are many more, too.” The important part is getting on the showcase of the immortals in the first place, which is something LA Knight aims to accomplish. 

WWE has a massive WrestleMania kickoff press conference scheduled for Las Vegas tonight. The event starts at 7:00 PM EST, and we will have full coverage of the show at SE Scoops. Perhaps, LA Knight will be around to jumpstart his own road to WrestleMania 40.

The ‘We Want Cody’ movement has taken hold of WWE’s merchandise department, with the American Nightmare proving to be the promotion’s top seller. 

Since returning to WWE, Rhodes has consistently been among WWE’s top merchandise sellers, both at live events and online. In the face of The Rock’s return, Cody has once again come out on top when it comes to merchandise. 

Wrestle Features reports that on February 7, Rhodes merchandise made up five of the ten best-selling items on WWEShop.com. Not only does Rhodes have half the field covered, but American Nightmare merchandise holds the top three spots for best-selling merchandise.

The Rock’s new ‘People’s Champion’ shirt made it on the list but in the #10 spot. The Brahma Bull has received a hostile response from WWE fans since his return last week, with many believing he doesn’t deserve a title match with Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40 over Cody Rhodes. 

The top selling t-shirts on WWE Shop (Feb 7):
1: Cody Rhodes (Claim Your Kingdom, Men's)
2: Cody (Claim Your Kingdom, Women's)
3: Cody (Claim Your Kingdom, Youth)
4: Drew McIntyre (Tombstone)
5: CM Punk (Return)
6: CM Punk (2011 Classic)
7: Jey Uso (Yeet)
8: Cody (Camo Skull)
9:… pic.twitter.com/pddncRkhs6

— Wrestle Features (@WrestleFeatures) February 7, 2024

What’s Next?

The Rock, Roman Reigns, and Cody Rhodes will be present at today’s WrestleMania 40 kick-off press conference. Many suspect that Rhodes will confirm who he will face at WrestleMania during this media event. Rhodes will also compete at Elimination Chamber: Perth later this month. Neither The Rock nor Roman Reigns are expected for the event.

WWE WrestleMania 40 will take place on April 6, and April 7, from Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA. The show will be WWE’s fifth two-night WrestleMania, a format that began during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What has Cody Rhodes had to say about the ‘We Want Cody’ movement… 

Fans may be a bit upset about The Rock showing up to take Cody Rhodes’ match against Roman Reigns at WrestleMania. The match is not set yet, but it appears that things will get locked down in Las Vegas on Thursday. Dwayne Johnson already made the flight, and he’s there.

The Rock Arrives in Las Vegas

The Rock travels in style, and he made it to Vegas a day before his big WrestleMania kickoff event at the T-Mobile arena. He seemed ready for whatever waits for him at the event. 

WWE dropped a video of The Rock arriving in Las Vegas to hype the WrestleMania kickoff show event. Obviously, they want a spotlight on The People’s Champion.

The People’s Champion has arrived in Las Vegas! @TheRock is ready for an iconic face-off with @WWERomanReigns tomorrow at the #WrestleMania XL Kickoff live from @TMobileArena.

The People's Champion has arrived in Las Vegas!@TheRock is ready for an iconic face-off with @WWERomanReigns tomorrow at the #WrestleMania XL Kickoff live from @TMobileArena. pic.twitter.com/RvY5vVNTzb

— WWE (@WWE) February 7, 2024

When The Rock vs Roman Reigns was Booked

I previously reported that The Rock called his shot for this WrestleMania match on January 1st when he showed up for the Day 1 episode of RAW. His Head of the Table comment was heard loud and clear. 

During Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer noted that WWE actually booked the T-Mobile Arena far in advance. This event wasn’t a late addition to anyone’s schedule.

“They had booked T-Mobile for Thursday with The Rock long ago, like someone there mentioned it in passing. It was, ‘it’s not like you can get T-Mobile Arena four days in advance for something that we’re changing.’ This thing was booked way in advance. This thing was, you know when I mentioned January 3rd, to make a date and have an agreement on January 3rd, there was pretty much an understanding well before that. They kept that one quiet. However it plays out, whatever it is, it’s working.”

Chances of The Rock’s WrestleMania 40 Booking Changing

There has been a ton of negative fan reaction since The Rock’s return. WWE has issued no internal word or memo about how to handle that discontent from fans.

To add a bit to Fightful's report about how WWE is preparing for negative reactions to The Rock.

I was told that "No official plans or memos or directives" have been passed down about how to handle this situation.

— Aaron (@AaronVarble) February 7, 2024

When I asked if any of this fan backlash will change these prospective WrestleMania plans, I was told, “there’s no chance in hell.”

After asking around days later, I received an additional note that said, “No chance this changes unless The Rock backs out. This has been The Rock calling the shot since January 1st.” That is when Rock showed up on the Day 1 episode of RAW and made his first head of the table comment.

I keep asking about #TheRock's #WrestleMania? plans possibly changing, because that's all fans want at this point.

Last night, a tenured member of the creative team told me straight up: "We have not been told of any change. That doesn't mean the plan hasn't changed. Or won't…

— Aaron (@AaronVarble) February 7, 2024

I checked once again, just to make sure that everything was in line. I was told that if there are any changes, then they’re being kept very close to the vest. By all appearance, Roman Reigns vs The Rock is happening.

What happens in Vegas is supposed to stay in Vegas, but tomorrow’s event at the T-Mobile Arena will certainly help shape WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia on April 6th and 7th. SE Scoops will have more updates as they are made known.