WWE SmackDown Preview: Why Cody Rhodes Should Avoid The Ring Right Now

David

3 min read

Post on May 24, 2025

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WWE SmackDown Preview: Why Cody Rhodes Should Avoid the Ring Right Now

The anticipation is palpable. This week's WWE SmackDown promises fireworks, but for one superstar, the best course of action might be to stay firmly on the sidelines. Cody Rhodes, fresh off a grueling and emotionally charged WrestleMania 39 loss to Roman Reigns, finds himself at a crucial crossroads. While fans clamor for his return to action, we argue that a period of strategic absence could be the key to unlocking his full potential and reigniting his championship chase.

The Emotional Toll of WrestleMania 39

WrestleMania 39 wasn't just another match for Cody Rhodes; it was a culmination of a year-long journey, a deeply personal narrative that resonated with audiences worldwide. His emotional investment was palpable, and the devastating loss to Reigns undoubtedly took a significant mental and physical toll. Ignoring this crucial factor would be a mistake, both for Rhodes and WWE. Pushing him back into the ring immediately risks diminishing the impact of his compelling storyline and potentially leading to burnout.

The Need for Strategic Storytelling

WWE's success hinges on compelling storytelling. A hasty return for Rhodes risks undermining the gravity of his WrestleMania loss. Instead, a period of strategic absence allows WWE to craft a compelling narrative arc for his inevitable comeback. This could involve:

• Building simmering tension: Rhodes could use this time to subtly antagonize Reigns and The Bloodline from the commentary booth or through backstage segments, subtly building anticipation for their eventual rematch.
• Focusing on character development: Time away allows Rhodes to explore other facets of his character, showcasing his depth and resilience beyond the ring. This could involve mentoring younger superstars or engaging in compelling interviews that delve deeper into his motivations.
• Creating a fresh rivalry: While the Reigns feud remains paramount, a temporary shift in focus could introduce a compelling new antagonist, adding layers of intrigue and dynamism to his character arc.

Learning from Past Examples

History is replete with examples of wrestlers who benefited from strategic time off. John Cena, for instance, often took breaks to pursue other ventures, returning with renewed energy and a revitalized fanbase. This strategic approach allowed him to maintain his star power while preventing audience fatigue.

The Importance of Long-Term Success

While the immediate gratification of seeing Cody Rhodes back in the ring is tempting, prioritizing long-term success is vital. A well-planned absence, coupled with strategic storytelling, ensures that his eventual return will be even more impactful and electrifying. The goal is not simply to keep him visible, but to maintain and enhance his star power.

Conclusion: A Calculated Absence is Key

This week's SmackDown provides a perfect opportunity for WWE to showcase their strategic thinking. By allowing Cody Rhodes to rest and recover, both physically and emotionally, they can pave the way for a truly triumphant return that will solidify his place as one of the company's top contenders. A calculated absence is not a setback; it's a strategic investment in the long-term success of one of their most valuable assets. Let's see if WWE plays their cards right. What do you think? Share your opinions in the comments below!