Should Cody Rhodes Turn Heel At WrestleMania?

The wrestling world is officially weighing in on one of the most anticipated main events of the spring. Bully Ray has shared his thoughts on the upcoming WWE Championship match at WrestleMania 42, making it clear that he doesn’t want Cody Rhodes or Randy Orton to turn heel on SmackDown. He believes the power of the story lies in the mutual respect between the two stars.

Speaking on Busted Open Radio, the Hall of Famer explained that the build to their contract signing should focus on the internal motivation of the “American Nightmare.” For Rhodes, the match is about proving he can surpass his former mentor to solidify his legacy as the absolute best in the industry today.

“For Cody Rhodes, ‘I need to beat Randy Orton in order for me to be able to look at myself in the mirror and put my head on the pillow and know that I am the best of the best.’ There’s your nice respectful start to a contract signing,” Bully Ray stated. He feels that this emotional hook is more than enough to sell the stadium match to the WWE fans.

He noted that the audience is already getting an intense, “hateful” rivalry on the other side of the bracket with Roman Reigns and CM Punk. In contrast, the WWE Title picture should focus on the credibility and prestige of the championship itself. He argued that the history between Orton and Rhodes provides a unique opportunity for a “pure” wrestling story.

“It’s what matters in Cody’s heart and Cody’s mind about how he views Randy, not only as a mentor, but as a champion. I don’t need anybody turning heel on one another this week,” he added. Bully Ray believes that avoiding the typical “I’m going to bury you” tropes will make the eventual physical confrontation feel much more significant.

The contract signing between the two is officially scheduled for this Friday’s episode of SmackDown in Phoenix, Arizona. This will be their first formal interaction since Rhodes regained the title from Drew McIntyre last week. While the fans remain divided on the recent title change, the creative team is banking on the deep-rooted history of the Legacy faction to carry the momentum into Las Vegas.

WrestleMania 42 is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, and Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Allegiant Stadium. This marks the second year in a row that the “Showcase of the Immortals” will emanate from the Nevada desert. With Orton looking to secure his 15th world title and Rhodes aiming to protect his third reign, the “respect and credibility” approach suggested by Bully Ray could define the legacy of the weekend.

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