Cody Rhodes survived a brutal high-stakes match against Randy Orton in the main event of WrestleMania 42 Night One to retain the Undisputed WWE Championship. However, it seems like there’s a new threat looming, and Cody’s reign may be in jeopardy.
Ricky Saints is the “threat” in question. He has had a long history with The American Nightmare since 2020. Before even joining WWE, the upstart had answered Cody Rhodes’ Open Challenge at AEW for the TNT Championship. Known as Ricky Starks during his stint in AEW, he delivered an incredible performance in the match, securing a contract with the company.
Thanks for the submission!
Even after he arrived in WWE, Ricky Saints has made a name for himself in the developmental brand. He has held both the NXT North American Championship and the NXT Championship. He is now set to make his SmackDown debut tonight.
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The American Nightmare is scheduled to open the show. Since Cody Rhodes doesn’t have a challenger for the Undisputed WWE Championship, plus Backlash fast approaching, the timing couldn’t be more perfect for the creative team to kick off an intriguing rivalry for the duo.
Ricky Saints and the Undisputed WWE Champion are friends in real life. However, a feud between them could be very exciting for fans. It has the potential to blur the lines between their real relationship and scripted storyline, which could make the rivalry feel even more intense and authentic.
Seeing Ricky Saints possibly confront The American Nightmare tonight on SmackDown and challenge him for the Undisputed WWE Championship at Backlash would make the crowd go wild.
If that happens, fans might see the former NXT Champion pick up a stellar victory over Cody at the upcoming premium live event. Although it may seem unlikely now, Saints has the talent and potential to become a key star for SmackDown. If he could successfully establish himself on the developmental brand in the short time he was there, there’s a strong chance he could carry that momentum onto the main roster and beyond.
That said, while this angle might sound convincing, it is speculative at this point. Fans will have to wait for the upcoming episode of SmackDown to see if this could come to fruition.
Ricky Saints potentially dethroning Cody Rhodes would be a masterstroke
Ricky Saints joining the SmackDown brand could dramatically shake up the main event scene. If Saints were to defeat Cody Rhodes at an event like Backlash, it wouldn’t just be a regular title victory. It would represent a clear and decisive shift in leadership.
Arguably, Saints has the potential to add an energetic and rebellious vibe to the Undisputed WWE Championship scene. This would be quite different from Cody’s more refined, professional, and heroic image. If Saints were to win the title, it could introduce an element of surprise and chaos to the blue brand, making the championship scene more exciting and unpredictable.
If WWE pulls the trigger on this at Backlash in Tampa, it would be a thrilling moment for fans. Dethroning the man who beat Roman Reigns and Randy Orton isn’t just a win. It’s the birth of a new era. However, this is also speculative.
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Edited by Steffi