5 reasons why Cody Rhodes didn't show up at WWE Elimination Chamber 2022

Cody Rhodes was spotted at an airport before WWE Elimination Chamber 2022.
Cody Rhodes was spotted at an airport before WWE Elimination Chamber 2022.

WWE Elimination Chamber 2022 is in the history books now. The crowd in Saudi Arabia saw multiple storylines end, and several titles get defended. Despite several rumors, Cody Rhodes did not appear at the event.

Becky Lynch squared off against her idol Lita in a RAW Women's Championship match. In an incredible confrontation, the current star proved her worth against the Hall of Famer.

The show also saw The Tribal Chief Roman Reigns defeat The Icon Goldberg after a dream showdown. The highlight of the show was when the Beast Incarnate Brock Lesnar outlasted his opponents inside the Elimination Chamber to become the new WWE Champion.

With Cody Rhodes' recent departure from All Elite Wrestling, many fans speculated that he might appear at the event to confirm his WWE signing. But that didn't happen.

Here are five possible reasons why Cody Rhodes didn't show up at WWE Elimination Chamber 2022.


#5. Cody Rhodes didn't show up at Elimination Chamber 2022 as he is filming segments at the WWE Performance Center

It is possible that the American Nightmare is signed to WWE, but he isn't ready to make an in-ring appearance yet. He might be shooting vignettes for his monumental return as the company hypes the same.

Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated had reported that Cody Rhodes might join WWE and even start filming for his highly-anticipated return starting this weekend.

"As for what happens next with Cody, it’s important to remember that this is the pro wrestling business. Were this part of a major swerve—a modern-day Brian Pillman duping WCW to sign with WWE—and Rhodes remains with AEW, it would be a massive story. But that is extremely unlikely. Every indication is that his next destination is WWE, potentially even as soon as filming segments at the Performance Center this weekend. And while Rhodes would add value to this year’s WrestleMania, he would also be a major reveal on the Raw immediately following ’Mania," Barrasso reported.

If we believe the reports, Rhodes might actually be at the Performance Center for filming and training for his eventual return to the company.

#4. Cody Rhodes didn't show up at WWE Elimination Chamber as he isn't signed to the company yet

As of Elimination Chamber 2022, it hasn't been confirmed that Cody Rhodes has officially signed with WWE.

Getting contracted to a promotion isn't something that is usually done within a day. After various conditions and negotiations, a superstar finally gets signed to a pro-wrestling promotion. In the case of WWE, the process can be even lengthier.

Rhodes was indeed one of the most important superstars in AEW. However, it has only been days since he left the company. It may take him longer to finally sign a contract with WWE.


#3. Cody Rhodes would not get a big pop at WWE Elimination Chamber 2022

Rhodes is popular among the pro-wrestling fans in the United States. However, it isn't the case in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

It is well known that WWE fans in Saudi Arabia are mostly interested in big names, which is basically why stars like Goldberg and Lita were used at this year's Elimination Chamber event.

Although Cody Rhodes is a big name, he doesn't have as much popularity in Saudi Arabia. His return will be better if it takes place at any RAW or SmackDown in the United States.

In the coming weeks, fans will watch out for his much-awaited return to WWE.

#2. Cody Rhodes didn't have anything to do at WWE Elimination Chamber 2022

WWE Elimination Chamber 2022 had one of the stacked match cards where all the matches had storylines involved in them. In such a place, Cody Rhodes may have preferred not to interfere.

The biggest question that would arise is that if he was to appear at the event, who would he lay his eyes on? At a premium live event, there is mostly no chance of cutting a promo against anyone.

He might have appeared and just cut a quick segment with the fans stating that he is back, but that is best saved for an episode of SmackDown or RAW. A superstar making his return after years simply won't be relevant for a premium live event. That may be the reason why WWE didn't make him appear at the event.


#1. Cody Rhodes' return didn't happen at WWE Elimination Chamber 2022 as he wants to take a break from wrestling

Cody Rhodes has been in the business for a very long time and has tried to remain active throughout the years.

However, he might want to take a break from the profession to spend some quality time for himself. Being a part of the pro-wrestling industry for such a long time can be stressful and exhausting.

Over the years, fans have seen stars like Ronda Rousey and Lita take a long break from the profession before eventually making their in-ring return. While Rousey wanted to spend more time with her family, Lita was stressed to the extent that she wanted to quit wrestling forever.

Hopefully, Cody Rhodes is just on a small break and will make his presence felt very soon.

When do you think Cody Rhodes will make his debut in WWE?

Let us know in the comments below.

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Edited by Debottam Saha
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