Image Source: YouTube/WWE
Cody Rhodes returned to WWE with a splash—dramatic entrances, emotional promos, and a WrestleMania main event that had fans chanting his name. As 2025 unfolds, many are asking: Is Cody Rhodes WWE’s next long-term top star, or is he just a well-timed fan favorite riding a temporary wave of momentum? The company has positioned him front and center, but staying power in WWE requires more than crowd pops and good booking. Being the face of the company comes with pressure, expectations, and a level of consistency few can maintain. With a rich legacy behind him and a spotlight burning bright, Cody’s future is worth a closer look. Here are six reasons why he may—or may not—be WWE’s next enduring icon.
He Has the Look, the Mic Skills, and the Legacy
Cody Rhodes has everything you’d want in a WWE poster boy. He’s charismatic, clean-cut, and carries himself like a star both inside and outside the ring. His promos connect emotionally, a skill that sets him apart from many of his peers. Add in his wrestling pedigree—being the son of Dusty Rhodes—and it’s easy to see why WWE has invested in him. He bridges the gap between old-school wrestling storytelling and today’s high-production spectacle. If WWE wants someone marketable and multi-generational, Cody fits the bill.
His Storyline Arc Has Captured the Audience
Cody’s journey—from leaving WWE, building AEW, then returning “to finish the story”—has become one of the most compelling narratives in wrestling. Fans are emotionally invested in his redemption arc, especially after his dramatic loss at WrestleMania 39. The long-term storytelling around him feels deliberate, and WWE has continued to reward the audience’s patience. He resonates because his storyline mirrors real-life struggles: failure, perseverance, and legacy. The question now is whether that arc can evolve into something more than a comeback tale. To be the face of WWE, you need a story that keeps growing.
WWE Is Still Roman Reigns’ Yard
As much momentum as Cody has, WWE is still very much in the Roman Reigns era. The Bloodline storyline continues to dominate screen time, and Roman’s presence casts a long shadow over every would-be top star. Even when Cody headlined WrestleMania, the main conversation was still about Roman’s reign. Unless WWE commits to fully passing the torch, Cody may always feel like a close second. Roman’s slow-burn legacy is still going strong, and Cody’s spotlight could dim once the Bloodline wraps up. He’ll need more than one iconic feud to take the throne.
Merchandise and Ratings Tell a Strong Story
Image Source: YouTube/WWE on USA
Cody’s merch consistently ranks among WWE’s top sellers, showing that his appeal goes beyond live event reactions. His appearances often spike TV ratings, and fan engagement on social media is strong. These metrics matter to WWE’s business—and they help make the case for pushing him long-term. If the dollars make sense, WWE usually listens. Unlike many fan favorites who lose steam quickly, Cody has remained commercially relevant since his return. That kind of sustained performance is a key ingredient in becoming the true face of the company.
He Has Cross-Brand Appeal and Mainstream Potential
Cody has already started branching out beyond the WWE ring with interviews, commercials, and appearances on talk shows. He speaks well, carries himself with professionalism, and looks the part of a global ambassador. WWE loves stars who can go beyond the ring and represent the brand in mainstream media. Roman Reigns, John Cena, and even The Rock have all thrived by becoming crossover stars. Cody has that same potential, especially with his polished public image and media-friendly style. The more doors he opens outside the ring, the more WWE will want to keep him at the top.
But WWE’s History With Fan Favorites Is Unpredictable
For every John Cena, there’s a CM Punk—someone beloved by fans but never fully backed by the company long-term. WWE has a history of pulling back just when it seems like someone could take over the top spot. Cody’s success depends as much on behind-the-scenes politics as it does on fan support. If creative plans shift, or if a new star catches fire, Cody’s momentum could stall. The WWE landscape changes fast, and today’s main eventer can be tomorrow’s mid-carder. Being a fan favorite is great, but it doesn’t guarantee lasting power in WWE.
Icon in the Making—or Passing Phase?
Cody Rhodes has the tools, the story, and the fan support to be the face of WWE—but whether he’ll hold that spot long-term is still uncertain. WWE’s booking, the lingering reign of Roman Reigns, and the company’s ever-shifting focus all play a role. Right now, Cody is red hot—but the true test is whether he can evolve and remain at the top. For now, he’s more than just a fan favorite—he’s a leading man with real staying power. Whether he becomes the face of WWE may depend on what happens after he “finishes the story.” One thing’s for sure: all eyes are watching.
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Amanda Blankenship is the Director of Social Media for District Media. In addition to her duties handling everything social media, she frequently writes for a handful of blogs and loves to share her own personal finance story with others. When she isn’t typing away at her desk, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, husband, and dog. During her free time, you’re likely to find her with her nose in a book, hiking, or playing RPG video games.
