When did Cody Rhodes find out that WWE is going to replace him with The Rock at WrestleMania 40?

Cody Rhodes' removal from the WrestleMania 40 main event has received heavy backlash from fans online.

When did Cody Rhodes find out that WWE is going to replace him with The Rock at WrestleMania 40?

Cody Rhodes on SmackDown (via WWE)

The wrestling community is voicing its support and sympathy for Cody Rhodes. On SmackDown, The American Nightmare basically handed his deserved WrestleMania main event slot to The Rock. Later, sources revealed that the decision came around quickly after the injury of CM Punk and the controversy surrounding Brock Lesnar led to plans changing. A new report has shed light on when the Royal Rumble winner found out about it.

According to Fightful Select, Cody Rhodes was informed about the change of plans and knew about it well before arriving for the show. However, there is no specification on when the 38-year-old found out about The Rock replacing him. Moreover, many were aware of the upcoming Las Vegas press conference and The Great One’s availability.

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Regarding the timeline of events, we’re told that Cody at least was informed as of Friday that this was the decision, and he didn’t travel to Smackdown without knowing. Talent, including The Rock, had all been booked for the February 8 press conference in Las Vegas by that time, though The Rock’s involvement wasn’t clear.
Fightful Select

After the events that took place on Friday night, reports suggest that many backstage are not in favor. Furthermore, fans have revolted online against the almost-confirmed main event of WrestleMania. Cody Rhodes has received tremendous support online, with calls for the original planned match to take place. However, it seems that the final decision of the same lies in the hands of TKO’s newest member, The Rock.

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The People’s Champion has come under a lot of criticism for supposedly using his power to “save WrestleMania.” With the online backlash, it will be interesting to see how things play out from here on out on the Road to WrestleMania.

Cody Rhodes will face Shinsuke Nakamura on Raw

2024 Royal Rumble winner, Cody Rhodes, has had quite an eventful start on his Road to WrestleMania. The 38-year-old star looked set to ‘finish the story’ and defeat Roman Reigns at the Showcase of Immortals. However, it wasn’t meant to be for The American Nightmare after The Rock returned to replace him. Now, he is scheduled to compete on Monday Night Raw against his rival, Shinsuke Nakamura.

Cody Rhodes vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
Cody Rhodes vs. Shinsuke Nakamura (via WWE)

General Manager, Adam Pearce, made this official after the King of Strong Style attacked Cody Rhodes at a Live Event. Moreover, this will be fought under one of Dusty Rhodes‘ signature stipulations, a Bull Rope Match. Hence, this marks the first time the former Intercontinental Champion competes under the stipulation in WWE.

The WWE Universe is heavily anticipating Cody’s next step after the segment on SmackDown. It will be interesting to see whether he addresses his decision during the episode and what lies ahead for him.

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