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Cody Rhodes recently achieved his biggest pro wrestling objective of becoming the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion at WrestleMania XL. The American Nightmare fought through Roman Reigns and his faction, The Bloodline. However, as a champion, he will now have to defend the gold as well.
The Cody Rhodes vs Roman Reigns rivalry spanned over two years of impressive storytelling. The Tribal Chief did defend his title against several other opponents during this time. However, the stars will now have to climb the number one contender ladder again.
Here are five top names in the WWE SmackDown locker room who can take the fight to Rhodes.
#5 The last phenomenal run of AJ Styles
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AJ Styles has had one of the most celebrated and hyped WWE Championship reigns. The Phenomenal One carries a lot of battle experience, including facing The Undertaker in his final match.
He recently won the contender’s series Triple-Threat match on SmackDown to fight Cody Rhodes. AJ had also recently revealed that he will retire soon, so this can be his final big run for a title shot.
#4 LA Knight can fight Cody Rhodes after Roman Reigns
LA Knight is undeniably one of the biggest pop generators in the locker room. In November last year, the 41-year-old superstar was close to winning the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at the 2023 Crown Jewel.
Moreover, he was also part of the Royal Rumble Fatal Four-Way match for the championship, which Roman Reigns won due to interference. Given his popularity, fans would love to see him fight Rhodes for the belt.
#3 Randy Orton to extend his championship game
Randy Orton returned to WWE in September 2023. Although he is currently locked in a feud with Logan Paul, he would be an excellent candidate to fight Cody Rhodes, especially given their history in Legacy.
Moreover, if The Viper defeats Rhodes, he can win his 15th world championship. Thus, the Legend Killer would look forward to squashing his former protege and extending his title wins.
#2 Solo Sikoa
Solo Sikoa has gone rogue after the fall of Roman Reigns as The Tribal Chief of The Bloodline. While The Head of The Table has taken a hiatus for a few months, Sikoa has backstabbed Jimmy Uso and assumed leadership of the stable.
Naturally, The Tribal Heir of The Bloodline would like to solidify his position with the same belt that Reigns wielded and clash with Cody Rhodes.
#1 Roman Reigns is one of the top opponents for Cody Rhodes
Roman Reigns’ 1316-day championship run finally ended at WrestleMania XL. The Tribal Chief got trapped in an unexpected outcome when his faction failed to assist him due to Rhodes's allies.
Although he is on a break, Roman had made a social media post that hinted he would return soon. Moreover, he can always exercise his right to a rematch as the previous champion.
