Is Cody Rhodes Avoiding WWE SmackDown? Exploring The Reasons

David

3 min read

Post on May 24, 2025

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Is Cody Rhodes Avoiding WWE SmackDown? Exploring the Reasons

The American Nightmare, Cody Rhodes, has been a prominent figure in WWE since his return at WrestleMania 38. However, his appearances have been largely confined to Raw, sparking speculation amongst fans: Is Cody Rhodes intentionally avoiding WWE SmackDown? Let's delve into the potential reasons behind this apparent absence.

The Raw Brand's Narrative Focus:

One of the most compelling reasons for Rhodes's limited SmackDown appearances is the overarching storyline currently playing out on Raw. His ongoing feud with various opponents, and his pursuit of the WWE Championship, keeps him firmly entrenched in the Raw brand's narrative. Maintaining consistency and momentum within a single brand allows for more focused storytelling and character development. Shifting him to SmackDown would risk disrupting this carefully crafted narrative arc. Think back to the build-up to his match with Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 39 – it was exclusively a Raw storyline.

Strategic Brand Division:

WWE's brand split, while sometimes blurred, serves a critical purpose: keeping rosters distinct and preventing storylines from feeling diluted. By concentrating high-profile stars like Cody Rhodes on one brand, WWE ensures that each show maintains a unique identity and attracts a loyal viewership. This strategic decision maximizes viewership across both Raw and SmackDown. Splitting the top talent evenly could lead to a less impactful viewing experience for each show.

Preserving the "American Nightmare" Persona:

Cody Rhodes’s character, the "American Nightmare," is deeply intertwined with his journey and his past. His connection to the Raw brand, solidified by his initial return and subsequent storylines, reinforces this persona. A sudden shift to SmackDown might feel jarring and could potentially dilute the carefully cultivated image he’s worked so hard to establish. Maintaining consistency helps to solidify his connection with the Raw audience.

Potential Future Cross-Brand Feuds:

While currently absent from SmackDown, it’s not inconceivable that Cody Rhodes could eventually cross over. The possibility of future feuds with SmackDown superstars, perhaps even a championship match against a prominent wrestler on that brand, remains a tantalizing prospect. This would heighten anticipation and provide a significant storyline boost for both brands. Such a crossover event would be a highly anticipated event, generating significant buzz and viewership.

The Mystery Remains Intriguing:

Ultimately, whether Cody Rhodes is intentionally avoiding SmackDown or simply focused on his current Raw storyline remains a matter of speculation. The absence, however, adds a layer of intrigue and keeps fans engaged, fueling discussions and predictions about his future within WWE. This ambiguity allows for creative storytelling possibilities down the line.

Looking Ahead:

The evolving nature of WWE programming means that anything is possible. While Cody Rhodes’s current focus is on Raw, his future appearances on SmackDown remain a compelling storyline waiting to unfold. Stay tuned to see how this narrative plays out!

What are your thoughts? Do you believe Cody Rhodes is avoiding SmackDown, or is it simply a matter of storyline focus? Let us know in the comments below!