The latest episode of WWE SmackDown concluded in dramatic fashion as Cody Rhodes and John Cena officially signed the contract for their Undisputed WWE Championship match at SummerSlam 2025. In a shocking twist, Rhodes insisted on adding a Street Fight stipulation, intensifying the stakes of the already blockbuster match.
What caught fans’ attention even more was Cody Rhodes’ noticeably aggressive demeanor. His recent actions are fueling speculation that a heel turn is on the horizon. This transformation first showed signs during his King of the Ring match against Randy Orton, where Rhodes used an exposed turnbuckle to secure a controversial win over his mentor.
Further igniting the rumors, Cody viciously attacked John Cena during their contract signing, with the two brawling around the ringside area. Rhodes ultimately forced Cena to sign the contract, showing zero remorse—solidifying suspicions of a character shift.
Whether @JohnCena likes it or not he will be at SummerSlam… in a STREET FIGHT 🔥@CodyRhodes pic.twitter.com/cAjVb7mPfK
— WWE (@WWE) July 19, 2025
Here are three clear signs Cody Rhodes is turning heel and possibly aligning with The Rock at SummerSlam 2025:
#3. Cody Rhodes Wore The Rock’s Accessories
Cody Rhodes is known for his sharp suits and polished appearance outside the ring, earning him praise as WWE’s top babyface. However, fans took notice during the most recent SmackDown when he appeared wearing The Rock’s signature sunglasses—the same pair The Final Boss wore during the premiere of RAW on Netflix. Even more telling was the Rolex watch Cody sported, previously seen gifted to The Rock before his departure following WrestleMania XL.
These fashion choices weren’t random—they could be symbolic of Cody aligning himself with The Great One.
#2. The American Nightmare Has Embraced Ruthlessness
On SmackDown, Cody declared he wouldn’t back down from John Cena this time—and he backed up his words. Rhodes assaulted Cena, hitting him with the Undisputed WWE Championship and sending him crashing through a table. He then forced Cena to sign the contract, standing tall as a dominant and unforgiving figure.
During his promo, Cody even invoked The Rock’s name, stating that he didn’t flinch in front of the Final Boss—possibly foreshadowing a future alliance between the two powerful figures.
#1. John Cena Needs to Retire as a Babyface
As John Cena nears the end of his legendary WWE career, many fans hope to see him retire as the beloved hero he’s long been. With limited dates left on his retirement tour, the storyline calls for a clear contrast—and Cody turning heel could provide just that.
A potential alliance between Cody Rhodes and The Rock might set the stage for Cena to fully embrace the babyface role once more. This could lead to a high-stakes career vs. title match, allowing Cena to go out with honor while giving Cody a defining heel moment at SummerSlam 2025.
