WWE’s Real Plans For Cody Rhodes After Title Loss Revealed

Cody Rhodes lost the Undisputed WWE Championship against Drew McIntyre on January 9th, 2026.

He placed the championship on the line against The Scotsman in a Three Stages of Hell match. Despite putting in his best efforts, The American Nightmare was left without the gold on WWE SmackDown.

With the championship gone, fans have been wondering what is next for the former Undisputed WWE Champion.

Will Cody Rhodes turn heel?

The American Nightmare is one of the top babyfaces in WWE, but a character change will elevate him to the next level, and he will be able to work on more angles. As a heel, several avenues open up for the former champion.

It so happens that both Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre had pitched for the Undisputed WWE Championship to change hands. Furthermore, Jacob Fatu’s interference was a part of the pitch when the title change was being discussed. Furthermore, Cory Hays of Bodyslam.net revealed that while Cody Rhodes will not turn heel, there will be a character shift.

Not a turn but a character shift

Not a turn but a character shift

— Cory of Bodyslam.net (@Cory_Hays407) January 9, 2026

Fans have been eagerly awaiting this change. Babyface Rhodes is good, but to see what he can do as a heel will be quite the fresh change of pace for the WWE Universe.

Read More: Cody Rhodes One Step Away From WWE Character Shift?

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