On the latest episode of WWE SmackDown Cody Rhodes discovered his next challenger after defeating AJ Styles at Backlash France. Nick Aldis announced YouTube sensation and current United States Champion Logan Paul. as Rhodes’ next opponent at the King and Queen of the Ring PLE in Saudi Arabia. But things have been different for ”The American Nightmare” if certain chips would’ve fallen into place.
Rhodes had a trilogy of matches last year against “The Beast” Brock Lesnar, coming out on top 2-1. At the end of their final match at SummerSlam, Lesnar broke character to raise Rhodes’ arm as a token of respect. But could he have come back for a title match against the new Undisputed WWE Champion?
Would Brock Lesnar have been Cody Rhodes’ opponent in Saudi Arabia?
On the Busted Open Podcast, hosts Justin and Jonathan discussed the main event of King and Queen of the Ring that features Logan Paul going against the American Nightmare in a ‘Champion vs. Champion’ match. Paul made sure to let the wrestling community know that he is currently the longest-reigning champion in the promotion with a 190+ day reign. The YouTube star’s box office appeal and crossover potential coupled with Rhodes’ quest to achieve Grand Slam status provide a mystique around the match. However, the argument of the feud not having an organic build does hold weight. Hence, while the clash seems good on paper, the encounter does not create much excitement according to the podcast hosts.
When it comes to shows in Saudi, in the past WWE have usually gone with traditionally bigger names for its shows in the Gulf Nation. Fans are used to seeing names like Goldberg, Brock Lesnar, John Cena and other big hitters making an appearance in these shows. But that may have changed to some extent given the lack of availablity of these stars.