What's Happening?
At WWE Backlash France, Cody Rhodes successfully defended his Undisputed WWE Championship against AJ Styles. During the match, Styles executed a 'Burning Hammer' maneuver, a move popularized by Kenta Kobashi. Rhodes, however, kicked out at the count of
one, a decision that was suggested by Styles himself to create a significant moment in the match. Styles later commented on the heat he received for suggesting Rhodes kick out of such a powerful move, clarifying that it was 'AJ Styles’ burning hammer,' not Kenta Kobashi’s, implying a difference in its perceived impact. Rhodes acknowledged Styles' suggestion, stating he appreciated the challenge. Rhodes ultimately won the bout, marking his first successful title defense. The two competitors faced each other again a month later in an 'I Quit' match, which Rhodes also won.
Why It's Important?
This event is important for the WWE as it solidifies Cody Rhodes' reign as the Undisputed WWE Champion and reinforces his status as a top-tier performer. The decision to have Rhodes kick out of a high-impact move like the Burning Hammer at one is a strategic booking choice that aims to elevate his character's resilience and fighting spirit, making his victories more impactful and his character more compelling to the audience. For AJ Styles, suggesting such a spot demonstrates his commitment to storytelling and his willingness to contribute to the overall narrative, even if it means his opponent gains a significant advantage in the match's perception. This kind of collaborative storytelling can enhance the quality of matches and feuds, ultimately benefiting the WWE product and its viewership. The successful title defense also sets the stage for future storylines and challenges for Rhodes, maintaining fan engagement and interest in the championship picture.
What's Next?
Following his successful title defenses against AJ Styles, Cody Rhodes is expected to continue his reign as Undisputed WWE Champion. The narrative surrounding his character, particularly the discussion about his 'killer instinct' as mentioned in a recent interview with Randy Orton, suggests potential future character developments, possibly including a 'heel turn' (a shift to a villainous persona). While many fans may not desire this change, the completion of his current storyline arc could open doors for new and compelling narratives. Rhodes' continued presence at the top of the WWE roster means he will likely face new challengers, leading to fresh feuds and championship matches. The WWE's focus on not overworking their wrestlers, as noted in recent power rankings, indicates a strategic approach to talent management, which could lead to more impactful and well-rested performances from top stars like Rhodes in upcoming events.
Beyond the Headlines
The strategic decision to have Cody Rhodes kick out of a significant finishing move at one, as suggested by AJ Styles, highlights a deeper aspect of professional wrestling: the collaborative art of storytelling within a competitive framework. This moment transcends a simple match outcome; it's a deliberate choice designed to build a specific narrative around Rhodes' character, emphasizing his resilience and determination. This kind of booking can have long-term implications for a wrestler's career, shaping audience perception and solidifying their place as a main event talent. It also underscores the trust and respect between performers, where a veteran like Styles is willing to contribute to the elevation of another star, even at his own character's expense in that specific moment. This collaborative approach to crafting memorable moments is crucial for maintaining the emotional investment of the audience and ensuring the longevity of key storylines in professional wrestling.
