Cody Rhodes’ Tense Rivalry with Randy Orton

The relationship between Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton has been tense since Orton reignited his feud with Rhodes on ‘Friday Night SmackDown.’ Their clashes have become frequent, but SmackDown GM Nick Aldis decreed that they must not touch each other before their match at Sunday Night’s Main Event in Atlanta. Violating this order would disqualify them from competing for a WWE championship.

During a recent SmackDown event at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Orton attempted to provoke Rhodes by calling him an ‘addict’ and ‘sick’ for his ambition to become the champion. Rhodes addressed Orton’s remarks during an interview with OutKick Dropkick, clarifying the driving force behind his wrestling career.

He had said, ‘addicted to winning the championship’ and ‘sick’ and putting it in front of everything…because if I had hit him, then I don’t get an opportunity for the WWE championship ever, and the same vice versa if he had hit me, Rhodes explained. At King of the Ring, I beat Randy Orton. At WrestleMania, I beat Randy Orton. I feel the desperation and the addiction. According to Rhodes, this drive is essential in professional wrestling, where everyone aims for victory.

Rhodes continued by asserting that the addiction and need for recognition might be more intense for Orton, who is nearing a record of 17 championship titles and stands close to icons like John Cena. He believes Orton seeks acknowledgment as one of WWE’s greats. However, Rhodes noted, Orton also risks being remembered for losing to him, his protege.

Rhodes also spoke about his involvement with Clash of Clans and its ‘Search for Cena’ event, expressing his ambition to re-enter the Undisputed WWE Championship contest. The match between Rhodes and Orton will be a significant step as Money in the Bank approaches.

Sunday Night’s Main Event will also include a variety of matches: a six-woman tag team match featuring Charlotte Flair, Alexa Bliss, Tatum Paxley, Jade Cargill, Michin, and B-Fab, a contest between Baron Corbin and Lil Yachty, and a clash between Oba Femi and Bron Breakker.