WWE legend says he is not a huge fan of Cody Rhodes: "But the son of a gun is over" (Exclusive)

With Roman Reigns back in town, Cody Rhodes isn't the only top babyface on WWE SmackDown. After the latest episode, Dutch Mantell shared his honest thoughts about The American Nightmare.

The season premiere of SmackDown on USA Network was a star-studded affair as, in addition to multiple special appearances, WWE also stacked the show with big angles.

Cody Rhodes defended his title against Solo Sikoa in a Steel Cage match that saw Roman Reigns appear to help The American Nightmare. Despite apparent friction between Cody and Roman, they signed a contract to team up together at Bad Blood against Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fatu.

While it is doubtful, a heel turn for Cody Rhodes can never be ruled out. Dutch Mantell felt it wasn't possible as Rhodes was just too popular currently.

During an insightful episode of Smack Talk, Mantell admitted that while he didn't like Cody Rhodes all that much, he acknowledged the reigning champion's drawing powers.

Mantell broke down Rhodes' personality and why fans, especially the young ones, love the former AEW star:

"Now, I'm not a huge fan of Cody, but the son of a gun is over. He is over with the kids; he is over with the families. Because he represents, you know, he doesn't do drugs, doesn't talk bad stuff, so he is kind of a fixture for them that you can put after the kids, but I don't think we'll see Cody as a heel. I really don't." [33:03 - 33:40]

A heel turn for Rhodes might be a plan for the distant future, but right now, all eyes are on whether he could coexist with The Original Tribal Chief in a tag team. Bad Blood turned into a must-watch PLE after this week's SmackDown!

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Please credit Smack Talk and give an H/T to Sportskeeda Wrestling for the transcription.