Rhodes began 2025 as the reigning Undisputed WWE Champion, starting his year with a successful, hard-fought title defense against Kevin Owens in a Ladder Match at the Royal Rumble. His championship run came to a stunning end at WrestleMania 41 when he was defeated by a newly heel John Cena in the main event of Night 2.

Cody Rhodes had to face undoubtedly the most delicate moment since he made his WWE return, having lost the world title to John Cena at WrestleMania 41 with a performance that did not live up to expectations that disappointed fans.