In the dramatic highlight of WrestleMania 39, Cody Rhodes didn’t clinch the long-anticipated victory against Universal Champion Roman Reigns. His thwarted championship quest sent shockwaves through the wrestling community. The decision by WWE not to hand Rhodes his crown went against prediction trends, and many fans who had rooted for “The American Nightmare,” leaving them disappointed and frustrated.
While some poured out their critique on WWE, an adage may hold sway over this unexpected development, ‘Patience reaps rewards.’ With the growing trajectory of Rhodes, it seems like WWE might set the stage for a grand rematch, possibly at WrestleMania 40.
“Tuesday with Taskmaster” recent episode brought some depth to the conversation. Its former WCW booker, Kevin Sullivan, shared his insightful perspective. He made a compelling case as to why this delayed victory for Rhodes may be a smart strategy by WWE.
Sullivan asserted that a victory for Rhodes is in the cards, but careful timing is crucial. If Rhodes had seized the belt immediately after Sami Zayn’s defeat at the Elimination Chamber, it might have done more harm than good. Such a move could potentially have sparked a negative fan sentiment, accusing him of opportunism at the expense of voicing support for long-standing wrestlers.
He pointed out the cushioning effect of Rhodes winning his feud against Lesnar before his faceoff with Reigns – a key factor as it primes Rhodes as a formidable opposition.
Sullivan commended WWE’s savvy strategy in delaying Rhodes’ victory. With a view to WrestleMania 40, Sullivan underscored that it might be the ideal moment for Rhodes to claim his belt. WWE’s play seems grounded in the idea that fans’ excitement and anticipation should be nurtured – sated but keen for more.
