What's Happening?
Cody Rhodes has sparked controversy online following his victory in a triple threat match on WWE SmackDown, earning a spot in the 2026 Elimination Chamber match. Fans have criticized Rhodes, dubbing him 'Cody Super Cena,' a reference to John Cena's era of dominance that divided audiences. The backlash centers on Rhodes overshadowing popular wrestlers like Sami Zayn and concerns about his suitability to main event WrestleMania against Drew McIntyre. The criticism comes amid slow ticket sales for WrestleMania 42, with tickets recently discounted by 25%.
Why It's Important?
The backlash against Rhodes highlights the challenges WWE faces in balancing star power with audience engagement. The comparison to John Cena's era suggests a potential disconnect between WWE's
booking strategies and fan expectations. This situation underscores the importance of creative direction in maintaining audience interest and the impact of social media on shaping public perception. The slow ticket sales for WrestleMania 42 further emphasize the need for WWE to address fan concerns and adapt its strategies to ensure successful events.
