Cody Rhodes has been one of WWE’s most resilient superstars, overcoming setbacks, injuries, and personal heartbreaks to cement his place as a main event star. However, for three consecutive years, one recurring theme has defined his career—betrayal. In 2023, Brock Lesnar turned on him. In 2024, The Rock shattered his dreams. And now, in 2025, John Cena has done the unthinkable. The question remains—why does Cody Rhodes keep getting stabbed in the back?
### **Brock Lesnar’s Shocking Turn in 2023**
Cody Rhodes entered 2023 with one goal: to finish his story and win the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. He had the entire WWE Universe behind him, but standing in his way was Roman Reigns, the most dominant champion in modern history. After failing to dethrone Reigns at WrestleMania 39, Cody was determined to climb back to the top.
When Brock Lesnar extended his hand in an apparent sign of respect, fans believed Cody had found a powerful ally. But in a shocking turn of events, Lesnar attacked Cody, leaving him battered and humiliated. Their feud became one of the most brutal rivalries of the year, with Cody barely surviving the Beast Incarnate. This betrayal was just the beginning of a series of unfortunate events for the American Nightmare.
### **The Rock’s Ultimate Deception in 2024**
Fast forward to 2024. Cody Rhodes was once again the frontrunner to dethrone Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40. However, the return of The Rock changed everything. Fans had been eagerly anticipating Cody’s rematch with Reigns, but The Rock’s influence forced WWE into a controversial decision.
At first, it seemed like The Rock was on Cody’s side, even endorsing him as the next face of WWE. But when it mattered most, The Rock betrayed him, siding with The Bloodline and ensuring Cody’s championship dreams were crushed yet again. This betrayal sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, leaving Cody to pick up the pieces of another shattered dream.
### **John Cena’s Unforgivable Backstab in 2025**
Cody refused to give up, pushing forward into 2025 with even more determination. He rebuilt his credibility, won key matches, and positioned himself as the undeniable number-one contender for the WWE Championship. This time, he had an unexpected ally—John Cena.
Cena, who had been a hero for over two decades, seemed to be mentoring Cody, guiding him toward his long-awaited championship victory. The WWE Universe believed Cena had returned to help Cody overcome the odds. But in a moment that no one saw coming, Cena turned on Cody, costing him the WWE Championship at Elimination Chamber. This was no mistake—Cena’s attack was premeditated and merciless, leaving fans in absolute shock.
### **Why Does This Keep Happening?**
The pattern is impossible to ignore. Every year, Cody comes within reach of his dream, only to have it snatched away by a supposed ally. But why? There are a few possible explanations:
#### **1. Cody Rhodes is a Threat to the Old Guard**
Cody represents a new era of WWE. He left the company, built himself into a global star, and returned to take his rightful place at the top. However, veterans like Lesnar, The Rock, and Cena may see him as a threat to their legacies. Each betrayal could be an attempt to keep Cody from officially surpassing them.
#### **2. WWE’s Biggest Names Want the Spotlight**
In each of these betrayals, one common factor stands out—each superstar who turned on Cody was an established legend. Lesnar, The Rock, and Cena have all headlined WrestleMania and held multiple world championships. Perhaps their motivation wasn’t just about stopping Cody, but about keeping themselves in the spotlight.
#### **3. The Bloodline’s Influence Runs Deep**
The Bloodline has been the most dominant faction in WWE for years. Roman Reigns, along with Paul Heyman and his allies, has orchestrated countless betrayals to keep himself on top. Could it be that all of Cody’s betrayals have been manipulated behind the scenes by The Bloodline? If so, that would mean Cody’s war is far from over.
### **What’s Next for Cody Rhodes?**
After three years of heartbreak, Cody Rhodes is at a crossroads. He could continue his quest, knowing that betrayal might always be lurking around the corner. Or, he could take a different path—one that involves turning against the system that has continuously wronged him.
One thing is certain: Cody Rhodes refuses to quit. Whether he finally wins the WWE Championship or suffers another devastating setback, his journey is one of the most compelling stories in professional wrestling today.
But the biggest question remains—will 2025 be the year Cody finally finishes his story, or will another betrayal rewrite his destiny once again?