Cody Rhodes planned to win WWE title earlier, says Stephanie McMahon
Wrestling Inc • 1 min read • Latest: May 31, 2026, 9:00 PM
Last updated May 31, 2026
Cody Rhodes captured the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 40, completing his long-awaited return story. Stephanie McMahon revealed that an earlier championship plan was in place upon Rhodes' WWE return in 2022, but circumstances altered those plans. His title win followed a loss to Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 39, after which he secured wins in back-to-back Royal Rumbles. Rhodes has held the title three times, with his first reign lasting 378 days, viewed as his most dominant.
- •Cody Rhodes defeated Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40.
- •Plans existed for Rhodes to become champion earlier after his 2022 return.
- •Rhodes lost to Reigns at WrestleMania 39 before winning two Royal Rumbles.
- •Rhodes has held the Undisputed WWE Championship three times.
- •His first title reign lasted 378 days, marking a significant achievement.
- 9:00 PMWrestling Inc — WWE's Stephanie McMahon: There Was A Plan For Cody Rhodes To Finish The Story Faster
"Stephanie McMahon claims that Cody Rhodes almost became world champion soon after returning to WWE in 2022.
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