The landscape of WWE SmackDown is currently under the management of Nick Aldis, who serves as the general manager of the blue brand. In the latest episode, Aldis found himself caught in multiple chaotic moments throughout the show. Notably, Jade Cargill was laid out backstage by a mysterious attacker. The Storm was later stretchered to the hospital.
Amid this, there is speculation that Nick Aldis might suspend Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes due to the latter's recent actions. This could result in The American Nightmare missing the upcoming Survivor Series: WarGames Premium Live Event. This belief stems from the SmackDown incident when an angry Rhodes was passing through the backstage area, where Carmelo Hayes and Giovanni Vinci were in conversation.
Hayes remarked, “It’s about time somebody told him about himself,” clearly targeting The American Nightmare and referencing remarks made by Kevin Owens. This comment enraged Cody, who confronted Melo, leading to a verbal clash that quickly turned physical. In a fit of rage, the Undisputed WWE Champion pushed the former NXT star with full force, prompting Nick Aldis to intervene and separate the two.
During the confrontation, Cody even suggested Aldis should reconsider his decision to draft Hayes as SmackDown’s first-round draft pick earlier this year, adding fuel to the fire. Given Cody’s inability to channel his frustrations, it is possible that Nick could suspend him as a disciplinary measure.
If Rhodes is indeed suspended, it would force him to miss Survivor Series: WarGames 2024. This suspension angle could also provide WWE with a logical explanation for his absence, given there have already been whispers of Rhodes not defending his title at the event. That said, this is just a speculation at this point.
If Nick Aldis decides to punish Cody Rhodes for the 39-year-old's recent actions, the suspension could potentially be lifted after Survivor Series: WarGames. This would align with speculation about Rhodes facing Kevin Owens in a high-profile match at Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 14, 2024.
To properly build anticipation for the potential Undisputed WWE Championship match, Rhodes’ return post the upcoming PLE will be essential if he is temporarily suspended. Cody vs. KO would be a perfect addition to Saturday Night's Main Event, given the intense build-up to their rivalry.
Fans have been highly invested in the storyline, praising the way The Prizefighter has been portrayed throughout this feud.
The upcoming episode of WWE SmackDown will be the go-home edition before Survivor Series: WarGames. If Nick Aldis decides to suspend Cody, it will likely be announced next Friday.