Is Cody Rhodes Smart To Stay Away From WWE SmackDown? Analysis & Preview

James

3 min read

Post on May 25, 2025

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Is Cody Rhodes Smart to Stay Away from WWE SmackDown? Analysis & Preview

The American Nightmare, Cody Rhodes, has carved a prominent path since his return to WWE, primarily focusing his efforts on Monday Night Raw. But with the brand split firmly in place, the question remains: is Cody Rhodes smart to avoid the blue brand, SmackDown? Let's delve into an analysis and preview of his strategic choices.

The Raw Dominance Strategy:

Cody Rhodes' current trajectory on Raw is undeniably compelling. His feud with Brock Lesnar, culminating in a brutal and highly-anticipated Summerslam showdown, showcases a commitment to a top-tier storyline. Staying on Raw allows him to maintain this momentum, solidifying his position as a main event player and a potential future World Champion. This focused approach avoids the dilution of his character that can sometimes occur with cross-brand appearances.

• Pros: Consistent storyline development, maintained prestige, avoids potential character dilution.
• Cons: Limited exposure to a different audience, missed opportunities for fresh rivalries on SmackDown.

The SmackDown Potential:

While Raw offers a clear path to the championship, SmackDown presents a different landscape of potential rivals and storylines. The blue brand boasts a roster brimming with talent, presenting unique opportunities for Cody Rhodes to further develop his character and engage with a different fanbase. Imagine the potential for clashes with established stars like Roman Reigns (should he remain champion), or rising stars vying for the top spot.

• Pros: Fresh rivalries, exposure to a wider audience, potential for diverse character development.
• Cons: Risk of diluting his current storyline momentum, potential for less prominent storylines depending on SmackDown’s booking.

Analyzing the Strategic Implications:

Cody Rhodes' decision to remain focused on Raw might be a calculated move. Concentrating on a single brand allows for a more cohesive and impactful narrative arc. The risk of spreading himself too thin across both brands could undermine the strength of his current character development. His dedication to a sustained, compelling storyline on Raw suggests a strategic prioritization of long-term impact over short-term exposure.

However, the potential rewards of a SmackDown appearance remain significant. The opportunity to connect with a new audience and cultivate fresh rivalries could ultimately enrich his character and broaden his appeal. The decision hinges on WWE's long-term plans for Cody Rhodes and the overall storytelling objectives.

Looking Ahead: A Preview of Possible Scenarios:

Several scenarios could unfold. A continued Raw focus could lead to a WWE Championship victory, cementing his status as a top champion. A surprise SmackDown appearance, however, could introduce unexpected twists and turns, potentially leading to an inter-brand feud or a different championship pursuit. The anticipation surrounding his future actions keeps fans engaged and fuels speculation.

Ultimately, the “smart” choice depends on the long-term vision for Cody Rhodes' character. Only time will tell if his current strategy yields the desired results, or if a shift to SmackDown proves to be the crucial element in his journey to the top of the WWE. Stay tuned for updates as the story unfolds!

What do you think? Is Cody Rhodes making the right choice? Share your thoughts in the comments below!