Cody Rhodes To Return at Backlash 2025? Here’s All You Need To Know

Fans have been anticipating the return of Cody Rhodes since he lost his Undisputed WWE Championship to John Cena at WrestleMania 41.

Cody Rhodes To Return at Backlash 2025? Here’s All You Need To Know

Cody Rhodes (via WWE)

Cody Rhodes has been off WWE TV since dropping his Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania. The American Nightmare lost his promise to protect WWE from John Cena, and failed to remain the people’s champion. It was a disheartening moment that left the 39-year-old shattered. However, some recent rumors and reports suggest that Rhodes might make his return at Backlash this weekend.

According to PWInsider, there has been a pitch backstage in WWE for having Rhodes return at Backlash. Although this report does not confirm anything at the moment, it highlighted that WWE was actually planning something for The American Nightmare. Since then, fans have discussed that Triple H could insert the former champion in the conclusion of John Cena vs. Randy Orton.

Besides, WWE is unlikely to keep The Prodigal Son off TV for a long time. He is the biggest baby face the company has right now, and in his absence, the SmackDown product has fallen significantly. Therefore, sooner rather than later, Rhodes is expected to make a comeback. However, for now, it remains unlikely Rhodes would return at Backlash this weekend.

Fans have been anticipating the former Undisputed WWE Champion’s return, and WWE might be looking to capitalize on the hype around him. However, WWE has already delivered a build for Backlash without any references to the former AEW star. Therefore, there is a high possibility that WWE might escalate with the return of The American Nightmare following Backlash later this month.

Cody Rhodes is expected to return on next week’s episode of SmackDown

WWE has kept all things related to Cody Rhodes tightly under wraps—and understandably so, as he remains the company’s biggest star. However, WWE is now openly advertising The American Nightmare for next week’s episode of SmackDown in Greensboro, NC. Notably, this episode airs just days after Backlash, making it a potentially significant and strategic spot for Rhodes to make his return.

Cody Rhodes
Cody Rhodes (Via WWE)

Alongside Rhodes, WWE has also announced appearances from Randy Orton, LA Knight, and Tiffany Stratton for next week’s SmackDown. While it now seems highly likely that The Prodigal Son will appear on the show, it’s worth noting that WWE had previously advertised him for the SmackDown episodes following WrestleMania—only for him not to show up.

Moreover, WWE has already advertised Cody Rhodes for major upcoming events like SummerSlam and Money in the Bank 2025. Yet, despite the buzz, there’s been no clear indication of what lies ahead for The American Nightmare. With WWE seemingly putting a pause on any immediate rematch clause, Rhodes may once again find himself on a long, uphill journey—this time to reach John Cena.

Cody Rhodes to feud with a former WWE Champion following his return?

After losing the Undisputed WWE Championship to John Cena, Cody Rhodes may be looking for a fresh start in WWE. With that in mind, Triple H could be planning to reignite a major rivalry for The American Nightmare on SmackDown this summer.

Cody Rhodes
Cody Rhodes (via- WWE)

The star in question could be none other than Drew McIntyre. The Scottish Warrior had warned The Prodigal Son on SmackDown before WrestleMania that he would be coming after him sooner rather than later. While McIntyre’s ultimate goal remains the Undisputed WWE Championship, his next move could involve confronting Rhodes.

Upon Cody’s return, McIntyre could confront him with disdain, accusing him of failing to protect WWE and falling short of his promises. This tension could lay the groundwork for a compelling summer feud between the two. With WWE gearing up for its first-ever two-night SummerSlam event, a clash between Rhodes and McIntyre has all the makings of a high-profile showdown.

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