WWE has spent years searching for someone who could truly fill the massive void left by John Cena, and according to Seth Rollins, the company believed it found that person in Cody Rhodes.
While reflecting on Codys return to WWE and the long-term vision behind it, Rollins openly acknowledged what many fans have suspectedbut WWE has rarely admitted outright. During the discussion on Games with Names, Rollins explained that Codys comeback wasnt just about bringing back a familiar name. There was a bigger plan attached, one centered on positioning Rhodes as the face of the company for years to come.
That comment stood out because it frames Codys return as a deliberate attempt to create WWEs next franchise star. Rollins went on to explain that this version of Cody was very different from the one who left years earlier, noting that management didnt see him as that level of performer at the time.
Rollins also pointed to their trilogy of matchesculminating in the brutal Hell in a Cell boutas the moment that helped solidify WWEs belief in Rhodes. Those matches werent just about settling a feud; they were about proving Cody could handle the pressure and expectations that come with being the guy.
Coming from Rollins, a performer who has himself carried WWE through multiple eras, the statement carries extra credibility. It also helps explain why Cody has been presented so differently since his return, with consistent main-event placement and long-term storytelling built around him.
WWE may never officially declare a successor to John Cena, but Rollins comments strongly suggest that Cody Rhodes was brought back with exactly that goal in mind.
Do you believe Cody Rhodes can truly step into the John Cena role in WWE? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
