The American Nightmare (Cody Rhodes) won the inaugural PLE in 2025.
Since capturing the Undisputed WWE championship at WrestleMania 40, Cody Rhodes has consistently defended it, playing up to his status as a workhorse champion.
In a ladder match fight against Kevin Owens at the WWE Royal Rumble PLE, which took place at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 1, Rhodes maintained the championship. Cody Rhodes was able to dominate Kevin Owens and climb the ladder to win the title despite the strong opposition.
However, with many opponents competing for the title of WWE WrestleMania 41 PLE, the champion must carefully consider his next move. Following the victory at the WWE Royal Rumble PLE, Cody Rhodes might take one of these three paths.
Possible Paths for Cody Rhodes After WWE Royal Rumble 2025
1. Continue his rivalry with Kevin Owens
At the Royal Rumble PLE and Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 14, Cody Rhodes defeated Kevin Owens back-to-back. But given Kevin Owens’ strong feelings against Rhodes and everyone who even considers supporting him, it’s likely that Owens won’t let the champion celebrate his win.
He might harm an already injured champion on SmackDown tonight, where Rhodes is expected to make an appearance similar to his recent attack on this week’s Raw, where KO turned on his long-time friend Sami Zayn.
2. Challenge Jey Uso at WrestleMania 41
When Jey Uso defeated John Cena in the 2025 WWE men’s Royal Rumble match, it shocked the whole WWE community. Now, Jey can pick between the Undisputed WWE Champion and the World Heavyweight Champion, Gunther for WrestleMania 41.
Due to their previous encounters and the fact that he views Cody Rhodes as a buddy, Jey is leaning toward Gunther. Cody may approach Jey, who has been set to appear on SmackDown tonight, and ask that Jey choose him over Gunther for WrestleMania 41, just like Ripley did on 02/03 Raw. After defeating Owens, a victory over Jey would give him a new opponent and further establish him as a champion.
3. Take a much-needed break
After defeating Roman Reigns in April of last year, Cody Rhodes has successfully defended the title eight times. In addition to being humiliated and punished in both fights, Rhodes was lately the target of several attacks from Kevin Owens before their matchup at the WWE Royal Rumble PLE.
Rhodes suffered injuries during last week’s ladder match as well, so it would be better for him to take some time off and recover. In addition to helping in his recovery, this would provide him with much-needed respite following the vicious match at Lucas Oil Stadium.
After winning the ladder match, what do you believe the American Nightmare ought to do? Post your ideas and opinions in the space provided for comments.
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