Top three reasons why Cody Rhodes should not win WWE Royal Rumble 2026
(Courtesy : WWE)
Rhodes is a two-time WWE Royal Rumble winner!
Cody Rhodes officially declared himself as the first entrant in the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble Match on the January 16 episode of SmackDown. Fresh off losing the Undisputed WWE Championship to Drew McIntyre, The American Nightmare now finds himself at a crossroads.
McIntyre made it clear that there would be no immediate rematch. The new champion revealed he requested SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis to add a no-rematch clause to the contract, effectively shutting the door on Rhodes’ title pursuit for now.
That reality has pushed Rhodes toward the Royal Rumble Match in Saudi Arabia, where he is chasing unprecedented history. While the temptation is obvious, having Rhodes win the Rumble again would ultimately do more harm than good.
Feud with Drew McIntyre would look forced on
Drew McIntyre escaped the steel cage in a brutal Three Stages of Hell Match to finally claim the WWE Championship in front of a live crowd. The rivalry reached its natural conclusion after multiple high-stakes encounters.
If Cody Rhodes were to win the Royal Rumble, the road would almost certainly lead back to McIntyre at WrestleMania. That direction would feel repetitive, especially with the no-rematch clause already reinforcing closure.
With fresh stories forming and new opponents emerging, Rhodes is better served rebuilding momentum through non-title feuds. The Royal Rumble win should instead elevate another star in need of a defining moment.
Also Read: All superstars confirmed for men’s WWE Royal Rumble 2026 so far
Over push might take away Cody Rhodes’ star power
There is no questioning Cody Rhodes’ star power or connection with the audience. However, his second run as WWE Champion began to feel predictable, with fans increasingly vocal about wanting to see change at the top.
Losing the title to Drew McIntyre refreshed the main event scene. It also opened the door for Rhodes to explore rivalries outside the championship picture, including a brewing program with Jacob Fatu.
For years, Rhodes has been booked as an obstacle-conquering hero, drawing comparisons to the “Super Cena” era. Strategic setbacks would allow him to evolve, adding depth to his character beyond simply being the unbeatable standard-bearer.
Also Read: WWE Royal Rumble: List of all winners
History does not need repeating
Cody Rhodes has already etched his name into Royal Rumble history. Winning the match in consecutive years placed him in elite company and solidified his standing as WWE’s modern-day franchise player.
Only Stone Cold Steve Austin has won the Royal Rumble three times, and that achievement remains one of the most protected records in company history. Handing Rhodes that distinction risks diminishing its long-term significance.
More importantly, Rhodes no longer needs the Royal Rumble spotlight. He has proven time and again that he can earn a WrestleMania title match without winning the company’s most high-profile stipulation bout.
Why is Cody Rhodes competing in the Royal Rumble 2026?
After losing the Undisputed WWE Championship and being denied a rematch, the Royal Rumble offers Rhodes a clear path back into WrestleMania contention.
Has Cody Rhodes ever won the Royal Rumble before?
Yes. Rhodes won the Royal Rumble in back-to-back years, placing him among the most accomplished winners in WWE history.
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