The Rock to return and replace 47-year-old star as Cody Rhodes' WrestleMania 41 opponent? Exploring the possibility

Cody Rhodes has a huge target on his back as the Undisputed WWE Champion. With WrestleMania 41 approaching, several superstars are rumored to challenge him at the year's biggest annual extravaganza and one of them is John Cena. However, things could take a dramatic turn as The Rock could return to replace the 47-year-old as The American Nightmare's opponent at The Show of Shows.

According to a recent report from PWInsider, there have been internal discussions to have Cena vs Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 41. However, the report also stated that things could entirely change if The Final Boss decides to come back to WWE next year and face either of the two stars at The Showcase of the Immortals.

The Rock could potentially make a call to the TKO higher-ups and the current plans could change in a moment. He is a prominent member of the TKO Board of Directors having absolute authority and control over the product. Besides, while leaving WWE after WrestleMania XL, The Great One stated that he would go after Cody Rhodes whenever he returned.

If The Rock heads his way back to the Titanland and decides to lace up his boots at WrestleMania 41, WWE could be compelled to revoke the current plans of John Cena vs. Cody Rhodes and the 52-year-old could replace Cena. The company could incorporate the real-life angle into the storyline by portraying that The Final Boss stole The Cenation Leader's title shot by using his authoritarian power.

In case it happens, it would give The Rock instant heat from the WWE Universe which will boost his villainous character. Interestingly, The Final Boss persona is known for doing things on his own terms. Therefore, this could create a defining moment that could change the landscape of WWE. Nonetheless, it will be interesting to see how things unfold for Rhodes in 2025.

Cody Rhodes to lose his Undisputed WWE Title at WrestleMania 41?

Cody Rhodes has been reigning as the Undisputed WWE Champion for over 260 days. Since capturing it at WrestleMania XL, he has been an unstoppable force, conquering all the challenges in his path. However, the clock could be ticking for The American Nightmare as he could lose his coveted title at The Show of Shows next year.

Speculation stems from the recent reports about Rhodes' future in WWE. According to WrestleVotes on SK's Backstage Pass, The American Nightmare could drop his Undisputed WWE Championship sometime in 2025. The report also suggested that WrestleMania 41 is being considered as a likely stage for him to lose the title.

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As a result, there are high chance that the 39-year-old could be facing an indomitable threat at WrestleMania 41. This title change could push The American Nightmare onto a new character arc, that might also prompt his potential heel turn in WWE. With 2025 being expected to be a game-changing year for the company, Cody Rhodes could shake up the wrestling world with a new story to be explored.

Only time will tell how The American Nightmare's story transpires from here.

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