Roman Reigns had held the WWE Universal Championship for an impressive 1,316 days, making him a formidable titleholder.
Rhodes has never held a world championship in WWE or AEW. Keeping the title on Reigns would have been the safer choice.
Rhodes faced obstacles, having lost a tag team match with Seth Rollins against Reigns and The Rock on WrestleMania Saturday.
The contest was conducted under Bloodline Rules, which meant no disqualifications and allowed for interference from Reigns’ dominant faction.
John Cena helped Cody Rhodes to win the WWE Undisputed Universal Championship at WrestleMania XL(40).
Out of the blue, The Undertaker suddenly emerged and snuck up behind The Rock. Then, he grabbed him and executed his signature move, the chokeslam, catching the Hollywood star completely off guard!
Cody Rhodes has won Royal Rumbles and main-evented WrestleMania. He’s positioned to be this generation’s version of Cena.
The current era features Reigns as the heel champion and Rhodes as the face of WWE. Despite Reigns’ successful run, WWE is taking a risk by removing him from the top spot.