Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton have a complex relationship marked by tension and rivalry. When Orton returned to ‘Friday Night SmackDown’, the feud with Rhodes intensified. SmackDown GM Nick Aldis took action by declaring they could not engage physically before their match at Sunday Night’s Main Event in Atlanta. Violating this mandate would cost them a chance to compete for a WWE championship.
In a notable interaction at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Orton provoked Rhodes. He accused Rhodes of being ‘addicted’ and ‘sick’ for chasing the championship. Rhodes, however, responded with a strategic perspective on wrestling and ambition. He described the challenge and desire present in all wrestlers who aim for the top without settling for second place.
“I’ve never trusted a wrestler ever — hell, I’ve never liked a wrestler ever — who said he didn’t want to be champion,” Rhodes stated passionately.
This rivalry is fueled by Orton’s proximity to breaking records and his legacy as a significant figure in WWE history. Rhodes noted that despite Orton’s achievements, he’s destined to be remembered as the wrestler who lost to him multiple times.
Rhodes elaborated on this ongoing struggle in an interview with OutKick Dropkick, highlighting the competitive nature of professional wrestling where the aim is always to win and become a champion. He also mentioned his desire to re-enter the Undisputed WWE Championship race, with the upcoming match offering clarity as Money in the Bank approaches.
Sunday Night’s Main Event will feature additional contests alongside Rhodes vs. Orton. A six-woman tag team match pairs Charlotte Flair, Alexa Bliss, and Tatum Paxley against Jade Cargill, Michin, and B-Fab. Baron Corbin will face Lil Yachty, and Oba Femi will battle Bron Breakker.