When it comes to the world of professional wrestling, few names carry as much weight as John Cena. A 16-time world champion, a WrestleMania icon, and a living legend, Cena has been the measuring stick for greatness in WWE. However, in recent years, one name has risen to prominence and captured the hearts of the WWE Universe—Cody Rhodes.
Yet, despite his meteoric rise, Rhodes has an alarming statistic attached to his name: **0-3 against John Cena**. The American Nightmare has yet to defeat The Champ in singles competition, and with each passing loss, the question looms larger—**can Cody Rhodes ever beat John Cena?**
### A Look at Their History: 3 Major Losses
#### **1. First Encounter – 2010**
In 2010, Cody Rhodes was far from the main event player he is today. At the time, he was transitioning from his days in Legacy alongside Randy Orton and Ted DiBiase Jr., attempting to carve his own path in WWE. When he stepped into the ring with John Cena, it was an opportunity to prove he belonged among the elite.
Unfortunately for Rhodes, Cena was in the middle of one of his most dominant runs. The match ended in decisive fashion, with Cena hitting an Attitude Adjustment and securing the victory. It was a learning experience for the young Rhodes, but little did he know, this would be the start of a frustrating trend.
#### **2. Second Battle – 2015 (U.S. Open Challenge)**
Fast forward to 2015, and Rhodes had undergone a dramatic transformation. No longer competing under his real name, he had adopted the Stardust persona—an eccentric, theatrical character inspired by his late father, Dusty Rhodes.
During this time, John Cena was the reigning United States Champion, defending the title weekly in his now-famous **U.S. Open Challenge**. Stardust answered the call, eager to prove himself against the man who was still regarded as WWE’s top dog.
The match was competitive, showcasing Cody’s incredible in-ring ability, but once again, Cena walked away victorious. Another loss, another disappointment, and another reminder that Cody still had a mountain to climb.
#### **3. The Third Strike – 2016**
By 2016, it was clear that the Stardust gimmick had run its course. Frustrated with his position in WWE, Rhodes requested his release, but before departing, he had one final televised encounter with John Cena.
The result? **Another loss.**
Although Rhodes gave it his all, Cena once again proved to be an insurmountable obstacle. This loss cemented Cody’s 0-3 record against the Leader of the Cenation and marked the end of his first WWE run.
### The American Nightmare’s Redemption Arc
Cody Rhodes’ departure from WWE in 2016 turned out to be a blessing in disguise. He embarked on a career-defining journey across the independent scene, New Japan Pro Wrestling, and eventually, AEW, where he helped shape a new era of wrestling.
When Rhodes returned to WWE at WrestleMania 38, he was no longer a mid-carder struggling to find his place. He was **The American Nightmare**—a polished, main event-caliber superstar who had the WWE Championship in his sights.
However, his 0-3 record against John Cena still haunts him. Now that he is back and thriving, fans are left wondering—**can Cody Rhodes finally defeat Cena?**
### The Ultimate Test: Will Cody Get a Fourth Chance?
While John Cena has transitioned to a part-time role due to his Hollywood commitments, he still makes sporadic WWE appearances. If Rhodes continues his dominant run, a clash with Cena could be inevitable.
A win over Cena would be monumental for Cody. It would erase the doubts, prove that he is on the same level as WWE’s greatest, and most importantly, provide the redemption he has been seeking for over a decade.
### What’s Next for Cody Rhodes?
Even without a match against Cena on the horizon, Cody has his eyes set on the biggest prize—**the Undisputed WWE Championship**. As he continues his journey, every step he takes brings him closer to solidifying his legacy. However, the shadow of John Cena still looms over him. Until he scores that elusive victory, the 0-3 record will remain a lingering question mark in his career.
### Final Thoughts
Cody Rhodes is no longer the inexperienced rookie he was in 2010, nor is he the Stardust character struggling for direction. He is **one of WWE’s biggest stars today**, and if he ever steps into the ring with John Cena again, the outcome could be very different.
Will Cody finally get his long-awaited win? Or will Cena once again prove why he is considered the greatest of all time? One thing is for sure—if Rhodes and Cena collide again, the WWE Universe will be watching closely.
Until then, the debate rages on—**can Cody Rhodes ever defeat John Cena?**