Cody Rhodes Hints at New Deal with The Rock on SmackDown

Knoxville, Tennessee — Cody Rhodes made a dramatic return to SmackDown last Friday, addressing fans for the first time since his loss to John Cena at WrestleMania 41. In his promo, Rhodes revealed that despite turning down an offer from Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, the opportunity to sell his soul remains open.

“I thought about The Final Boss asking me for my soul, and the entire world theorizing what he meant,” Rhodes told the crowd. “And as preposterous as it sounded, the scary part was that he was 100% serious. And no matter how many times I say no, the offer still stands.”

The storyline between Rhodes and Johnson began in February when The Rock reappeared in WWE, proposing riches and dreams in exchange for Rhodes’ soul. Rhodes initially rejected the offer at the Elimination Chamber, a decision that elicited a heel turn from John Cena, who attacked Rhodes and aligned with The Rock.

However, Johnson was missing from WrestleMania 41, leaving fans disappointed and speculating that the storyline might have ended. Rhodes’ recent mention of Johnson on SmackDown rekindled hopes that the saga is far from over.

“With The Final Boss and Cody Rhodes, it’s not about the WWE Title,” Johnson had previously said. “It never has to culminate to a match.” This opens the possibility that their storyline could evolve into an alliance, signaling a darker path for Rhodes.

By taking a more aggressive stance towards Cena and showing intent to play dirty in future encounters, Rhodes is indicating he is done being fair. “If you are listening, champ, I need you to know that I will never hesitate with you again,” Rhodes warned, hinting at a fierce rivalry ahead.

The stage is set for a potential rematch against Cena, as speculation grows about Rhodes considering The Rock’s offer amidst escalating tensions. Fans eagerly await what unfolds between “The American Nightmare” and “The Final Boss” as wrestling drama continues at Money in the Bank.