Three stars who could confront Cody Rhodes on WWE SmackDown tonight (August 8, 2025)

The American Nightmare recently defeated John Cena to regain the crown!

The newly crowned WWE Champion, Cody Rhodes, is set to address the WWE Universe tonight on SmackDown following his triumphant win over John Cena in the main event of Night 2 of SummerSlam 2025.

Tonight’s episode of Friday Night SmackDown is set to air live from the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The episode will serve as the fallout show from SummerSlam 2025, and will feature the aftermath of the PLE while building towards the upcoming Clash in Paris 2025. Additionally, John Cena is also set to make an appearance on tonight’s show.

Ahead of Rhodes’ appearance tonight, let us take a look at the top three stars who could confront the new Champion, who is currently on cloud nine after the title win.

3. Carmelo Hayes

Carmelo Hayes has been largely absent from WWE programming in recent weeks despite fan demand. His storyline with The Miz was quietly abandoned, too. However, Hayes has recently in his X/Twitter post tagged WWE, demanding them to “pass the ball”, likely hinting at putting him in storylines and title clashes.

Hayes also has a long-standing feud with Rhodes and has even attacked him off-air multiple times this year. He might decide to confront Rhodes tonight and challenge him for the title.

Also Read: WWE SmackDown (August 8, 2025) Preview, match card, news, timings, where to watch & more

2. Randy Orton

‘The Viper’ Randy Orton is another potential star who could confront Cody Rhodes tonight. Orton suffered defeat at the hands of Rhodes in the finals of the King of the Ring tournament, which was held at the 2025 edition of Night of Champions.

While Rhodes was very thankful and had nothing but praise for his friend and mentor, Orton was visibly angry during Cody’s victory speech. Many fans speculated a heel turn for Orton, which might be in store for tonight. Additionally, Orton is also looking to capture his 15th World title and move closer to John Cena’s record of 17 WWE World titles.

1. Drew McIntyre

‘The Scottish Psychopath’ Drew McIntyre recently emerged victorious alongside Logan Paul against the team of Randy Orton and Jelly Roll.

After concluding his feud with Orton, McIntyre might make a case for a title shot as he already has a long storyline with Rhodes, and Orton not getting the title shot, despite Cody being his friend, would only fuel the narrative of the heel turn even more.

McIntyre already has two intriguing feuds with Damain Priest and Randy Orton in 2025 and might decide to jump back in the title picture to regain the title, which he lost via a cash-in at WrestleMania 40.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Wrestling on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram & Whatsapp.