This week’s episode of SmackDown delivered a shocking moment when Randy Orton attacked Cody Rhodes in a brutal segment. The Viper turned on the Undisputed Champion and unleashed a ruthless beatdown that was meant to change the direction of their rivalry.
The idea behind the segment seemed clear. WWE wanted Cody Rhodes to look like the heroic champion who was betrayed by a mentor, while Randy Orton would become the villain of the storyline.
However, the reaction from the crowd was very different from what many expected. Instead of booing Orton, the live audience cheered loudly during the attack. Fans even chanted for him while he continued the assault.
Because of this reaction, the moment did not create the sympathy WWE likely hoped for Cody Rhodes. Instead, the crowd excitement made it look like Orton was the fan favorite while Rhodes was the disliked star.
Now WWE may need to adjust the story so that fans once again support Cody Rhodes as the main hero of the feud. Here are three ways the company could fix the situation and bring the storyline back on track.
Show Cody Rhodes as a Fighter Who Refuses to Quit
One of the best ways to rebuild support for Cody Rhodes is to focus on his resilience. Fans often connect with heroes who face difficult situations but continue fighting.
Cody could return on the next episode of SmackDown looking injured after the attack. Visible signs such as bandages, bruises, or stitches would help show the damage he suffered.
During a promo, he could speak honestly about his relationship with Randy Orton. Cody might explain how he respected Orton for years and considered him a mentor. Talking about the emotional impact of the betrayal could make fans feel sympathy for him.
After delivering this emotional message, WWE could have Orton attack him again from behind. Another sudden attack would reinforce the idea that Cody is the victim of betrayal.
Moments like this can help shift fan reactions and remind viewers that Rhodes is the hero of the story.
Introduce a Legendary Figure to Raise the Stakes
Another possible way to change the crowd reaction is by bringing a third person into the feud.
WWE has often used legendary figures or family connections to add emotional depth to rivalries. A veteran wrestler connected to Cody Rhodes could appear and show support for him.
If Randy Orton then attacked that person, it could quickly change how fans react to him. Seeing a respected figure being targeted would likely lead to strong boos from the crowd.
WWE could also bring Cody’s family legacy into the story. References to Dusty Rhodes have been used before in Cody’s rivalries with major stars such as Seth Rollins and Drew McIntyre.
If Orton mocked or disrespected Dusty Rhodes during a promo, it would likely upset many fans. This type of storyline could make audiences rally behind Cody once again.
Randy Orton Could Turn Against the Fans
Another simple way to change the story direction is to have Randy Orton criticize the audience itself.
During the attack on SmackDown, fans were clearly excited to see Orton return to his aggressive side. WWE could turn that reaction into part of the storyline.
On the next show, Orton could appear and complain about the crowd cheering for him. He could say the fans only support him when he is violent and then pretend to care about morality.
If Orton insults the audience and questions their loyalty, the crowd reaction could quickly change. Fans who were cheering him earlier might start booing him once he turns his anger toward them.
This approach would help establish Orton as the villain while giving fans a reason to support Cody Rhodes again.
Why This Storyline Matters for WrestleMania
The rivalry between Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes has the potential to become one of WWE’s biggest storylines heading toward WrestleMania. Both wrestlers are major stars with long histories in the company.
For the story to work properly, the audience needs to clearly understand who the hero and villain are supposed to be. If fans continue cheering the villain, the emotional impact of the feud becomes weaker.
By adjusting the story through emotional promos, legendary appearances, or stronger character work, WWE can reshape the audience reaction.
If handled correctly, the rivalry could become even more intense and create one of the most memorable matches of the year.
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