5 WWE Superstars who could emerge as Cody Rhodes’ next challenger on this week’s SmackDown
Cody Rhodes defeated Drew McIntyre to retain the Undisputed WWE Championship at Saturday Night’s Main Event XLI. The stipulation for the bout stated that if Rhodes lost via disqualification or countout, he would lose the title, leading many fans to believe that The QB1 would finally be dethroned last weekend.
However, that wasn’t the case, as Rhodes emerged victorious once again. With another win over The Scottish Warrior, their feud is likely over for now. Therefore, on this week’s SmackDown, a new challenger could step up to The American Nightmare.
That said, here are five potential superstars who could emerge as Cody Rhodes’ next challenger on Friday:
#5. Sami Zayn could be a great choice
After weeks of hosting the US Title Open Challenge, Sami Zayn lost the title to the returning Ilja Dragunov on the October 17 episode of SmackDown. The Underdog from the Underground and Cody Rhodes had a backstage segment last week, sparking speculation of a potential feud between the two.
Zayn wasn’t cleared to compete last week, so his in-ring status is still unclear. However, that might not stop him from confronting the Undisputed WWE Champion on Friday and declaring his intention to win the title.
#4. Jacob Fatu could return
Jacob Fatu was slated to face Drew McIntyre in a number one contender’s match for the Undisputed WWE Title on the October 17 episode of SmackDown. However, before the bout, Fatu was mysteriously taken out backstage, ruling him out of the match.
The Samoan Werewolf is reportedly dealing with an injury, which forced the creative team to write him off TV. If the injury is minor and Fatu is cleared to compete, he could step up to Cody Rhodes and resume his quest to become world champion.
#3. Oba Femi could debut
Oba Femi has been absent from TV since losing the NXT Championship to Ricky Saints at NXT No Mercy. After dominating the developmental brand, The Ruler seems more than ready to make a splash on the main roster.
Femi could make his debut on SmackDown this week and challenge Cody Rhodes, immediately placing the powerhouse in the main event scene.
#2. Uncle Howdy needs a proper break as a singles competitor
The Wyatt Sicks are already dominating the tag team division on SmackDown as WWE Tag Team Champions. Now, the leader, Uncle Howdy, could look to bring the Undisputed Title to the faction as well.
The masked superstar could confront The American Nightmare and declare that The Wyatt Sicks would be coming for the title. The blue brand needs more credible singles superstars in the main event scene, something Uncle Howdy could be if given an opportunity.
#1. Randy Orton could challenge Cody Rhodes
The long-awaited feud between Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes could finally begin on this week’s SmackDown. The Viper has been on a quest to win his 15th World Title in WWE for a while now, but despite several opportunities, he has been unsuccessful thus far.
Orton has been absent from television for weeks, but could return this Friday and challenge his longtime friend and former mentee to a title match. This could eventually lead to The Apex Predator turning heel, turning their potential rivalry personal.
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Edited by Parth Pujara
