Is Roman Reigns Stealing Cody Rhodes' Spotlight?

Pro wrestling fans are in for a treat these days. The clash between Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes has sparked endless debates, and this weekend’s events only amplified the excitement. Roman Reigns made his long-awaited return to SmackDown, reigniting the flames of the WWE Universe, and fans can hardly contain their excitement. The upcoming tag team match at Bad Blood, where Roman and Cody will team up, feels like a dream come true. Yet, amidst the excitement, there's a divide within the wrestling community. Some fans argue that Roman is overshadowing Cody, while others claim the reverse.

To appreciate the magnitude of this rivalry, let's take a trip down memory lane. Remember Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock? Back in 2001, WWE had the good fortune of having two megastars as the faces of the company. It was a golden era for the business, and both men carried the company to unprecedented heights. John Cena later stepped into this role, becoming the company’s stalwart through its post-Attitude Era downturn, offering consistency and long-term star power.

Now, with Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes, WWE finds itself in a similar situation. Since Roman’s character transformation in 2020 and Cody’s return from AEW, both have risen to the top, cementing their status as WWE's premier stars. As of September 2024, these two titans sit atop the wrestling world, each with their own devoted fanbase. While some see them as rivals, they have the potential to headline shows both individually and together. The rivalry between their fanbases — Roman's Tribal Chiefs and Cody's Cody Warriors — may lead to some tribalism, but at its core, this competition is exactly what wrestling needs right now.

The discussion among fans often revolves around who's the true face of WWE. Some argue Roman remains the biggest star, despite not always being the champion, while others believe Cody’s fresher presence since WrestleMania 40 gives him an edge. Ultimately, it's subjective. What matters most is that WWE is currently in a unique and thrilling position where it can boast two megastars, both capable of carrying the company. This dynamic not only benefits fans but also keeps the product fresh, with each man pushing the other to new heights.

But it’s not just about the headlining names. Behind the scenes, the competitive spirit between Cody and Roman is undeniable. Both men want to be the guy who headlines the biggest shows, sells the most merchandise, and delivers the best promos. This competition is natural, but it’s also what drives innovation and creativity within WWE. Their rivalry creates better matches, more compelling storylines, and unforgettable moments, all of which keep fans coming back for more.

Looking ahead, the future of WWE looks bright. While Roman’s return has generated enormous buzz, Cody’s consistent presence since WrestleMania 40 has solidified his status. Roman’s occasional absences have only heightened the excitement for his appearances. Both men seem to be in WWE for the long haul, with Roman’s increasing legendary status and Cody’s aspirations of leaving a legacy that lasts beyond his in-ring career.

The excitement doesn’t end with these two, though. WWE’s current roster is stacked with talent. From rising stars like Damian Priest and Rhea Ripley to established names like Drew McIntyre, WWE has positioned itself for long-term success. Even stars like CM Punk and Randy Orton continue to make waves. Meanwhile, Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill are primed to be the future of women’s wrestling.

In the end, whether you're team Roman or team Cody, there’s no denying that WWE is experiencing a renaissance. The company has come a long way since the darker days of 2018 and 2019, and the competition — both internally and externally with AEW — has only made it stronger. This renewed sense of urgency and drive is why WWE is back on top, and we, the fans, are the biggest beneficiaries.

So pick your side, root for your favorite, but remember — this is an extraordinary time for wrestling. With Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes leading the charge, WWE is in safe hands, and the best is yet to come.