WWE SummerSlam 2025 delivered unforgettable moments, marked by surprising backstage developments that changed some of the event’s original plans. Notably, country music star and WWE debutant Jelly Roll altered the scripted outcome of his marquee tag match, Cody Rhodes postponed his heel turn, and sources indicate that Karrion Kross is poised for a significant push following SummerSlam’s aftermath.

Jelly Roll’s Request Reverses Planned Victory at SummerSlam

One of the most talked-about shifts came from the highly anticipated tag team match featuring Grammy-nominated artist Jelly Roll and WWE legend Randy Orton against Drew McIntyre and Logan Paul. Initially, WWE creative had scripted Jelly Roll and Orton to win the bout, with Logan Paul taking the fall. However, during the match preparations, Jelly Roll himself requested to lose. On Cody Rhodes’ podcast What Do You Wanna Talk About?, Jelly Roll revealed he proposed the loss deliberately to fuel his motivation to return to active in-ring competition with WWE in the future[1][2].

This change was confirmed by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter’s Dave Meltzer, who reported the original plan was indeed for Orton and Jelly Roll to emerge victorious but Jelly Roll successfully advocated for the opposite result as a sign of respect for the company and his partners[1]. WWE insiders have since praised Jelly Roll for his professionalism and humility, highlighting the respect he earned backstage from fellow WWE Superstars.

The match itself was well-received, with fans and critics applauding Jelly Roll’s performance and the chemistry between the teams. His decision to lose breaks the common pattern of celebrity wrestling debuts ending in wins, showcasing a willingness to put the business and narrative over personal glory[3].

Cody Rhodes’ Heel Turn Holds Off for Now

Meanwhile, fans eagerly awaiting a change in Cody Rhodes’ character direction have been met with a delay in his anticipated heel turn. Rhodes, who recaptured the Undisputed WWE Championship in a brutal Street Fight against John Cena on Night Two of SummerSlam, continues to embody a babyface role for the time being[2][4]. Sources close to WWE creative reveal that the company is strategically pacing Rhodes’ character development, intending to build further tension and narrative depth before turning him into a villain.

According to insiders, the decision to hold off on Rhodes’ heel turn stems from the overwhelmingly positive reception his triumphant championship victory received and the iconic nature of his post-match acknowledgement with Cena. The emotional exchange between the two icons was a major highlight of SummerSlam 2025 and has solidified Rhodes as a fan favorite for the foreseeable future[2][3].

Karrion Kross Eyes Big Push Following SummerSlam

Another notable name making news from SummerSlam is Karrion Kross. After a competitive match where he was ultimately defeated by Sami Zayn, reports indicate WWE is preparing to elevate Kross in the coming months. Fightful and other wrestling news outlets have learned from backstage sources that WWE officials see Kross as a prime candidate for a major push, potentially positioning him in title contention soon[3].

This planned ascent appears timely, as WWE looks to strengthen its roster depth and create fresh main-event scenarios post-SummerSlam. Kross’s in-ring skills and magnetic presence have earned praise, and WWE is capitalizing on his momentum by advancing his storyline in the Raw brand[3].

Additional Highlights and Backstage Insights from SummerSlam 2025

• The two-night SummerSlam event, held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, was WWE’s first SummerSlam to span multiple nights, expanding its WrestleMania-style format to another of its biggest pay-per-views. The show featured numerous title defenses, intense rivalries, and memorable moments, including Naomi retaining the Women’s World Championship in a triple threat against Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky[2][3].

• WWE legend John Cena made what is expected to be his final SummerSlam in-ring appearance before retiring from professional wrestling by the end of 2025[4].

• The event was also under the spotlight due to the controversial return of Brock Lesnar, which drew mixed reactions amid ongoing discussions surrounding his off-screen controversies[4].

According to a WWE insider, “The changes made to SummerSlam’s plans — especially Jelly Roll’s decision and Cody’s delayed heel turn — reflect WWE’s commitment to long-term storytelling and respect for its talent. The company is preparing carefully to maximize fan engagement moving forward.”

As WWE progresses through the latter half of 2025, fans can expect evolving storylines around Rhodes’ character, increased opportunities for stars like Karrion Kross, and the potential for Jelly Roll to return stronger, having already won the admiration of WWE’s locker room.

For continued coverage of WWE’s evolving narratives and wrestler pushes, stay tuned to WWE.com, trusted wrestling news outlets, and exclusive podcasts such as Cody Rhodes’ What Do You Wanna Talk About?.