5 mistakes WWE need to avoid with former AEW star Cody Rhodes' debut

#2. Don't debut him in a backstage segment but let him cut a promo

AEW allowed Cody Rhodes to cut his own promos, which was the perfect way to showcase his greatest strength: mic work and storytelling. While some critics point to how he workshops his promos to the point of self-indulgence at times, there's no denying that he is a captivating speaker.

The worst thing that WWE can do is let him appear on television for the first time without saying a word or worse, in a nondescript backstage promo. He deserves time in the middle of the ring to acknowledge his AEW departure if possible and establish his motivations for coming back to WWE. That would be a money segment.

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#1. Not pulling the trigger on a heel run which Cody refused to do in AEW

Cody Rhodes was one of AEW's biggest babyfaces when the company first started. But whether it's due to his various Hollywood projects, constant absence from television or confusing storylines, Cody's slowly turned into one of the most unlikeable wrestlers in the industry.

Despite numerous boos from every Dynamite audience and calls to become a villain, the former TNT Champion has remained stubborn in not turning heel. Now that creative control is no longer in his hands, WWE should absolutely make the decision for the American Nightmare and make him a villain right off the bat. He has spent his entire time in AEW taking potshots towards Vince McMahon and Triple H. The WWE talent could take issue with his past comments and treat him like the outside invader that he is. The story essentially writes itself. The company would be wise to listen to the wrestling audience.