Despite widespread online speculation and subtle storyline teases, WWE has no plans for a heel turn for its current champion, Cody Rhodes, in the foreseeable future. According to recent exclusive reports and insider confirmations, the American Nightmare will remain a top babyface as WWE continues to build on his strong fan support and marketability.

For several weeks leading up to SummerSlam 2025, many WWE fans and analysts speculated that Rhodes might undergo a major character change, switching from beloved hero to villainous heel. This theory gained momentum amid tense in-ring interactions and storyline cues suggesting discontent or moral ambiguity. However, the latest insights from trusted wrestling news sources and podcasts, including WrestleVotes Radio on WrestleBinge, have emphatically put these rumors to rest[1].

WrestleVotes hosts JoeyVotes and TC confirmed on their show that the seemingly “teased” heel turn was, in reality, a deliberate WWE storytelling device aimed at misdirecting hardcore fans rather than signaling any concrete plans. They emphasized that a heel Cody Rhodes would be an unusual fit given his current status as the face of the company and a prominent figure on nationwide merchandise, such as Minute Maid cartons in the United States. WWE’s marketing approach strongly supports keeping Rhodes as a heroic character whose image resonates positively with a broad audience[1].

Cody Rhodes himself addressed the prospect of a heel turn during a recent appearance on ESPN’s First Take. While he acknowledged that “never say never” applies in professional wrestling and that a heel turn could be conceivable eventually, Rhodes expressed skepticism about how well he could perform as a villain. He outlined a unique vision for a heel version of himself — a character stripped of typical entrance music and theatrics, aiming to be so detestable that fans might want to “cancel” him. Yet he wondered whether such an experimental heel persona would truly connect with WWE audiences[2].

Since his much-celebrated return at WrestleMania 38, Rhodes has emerged as arguably the most popular figure on WWE’s roster. His babyface status was further solidified when longtime fan-favorite John Cena turned heel against him at the Elimination Chamber event. Rhodes’s journey has since focused on regaining the WWE Championship he lost to Cena at WrestleMania 41, with anticipation building for their rematch at SummerSlam 2025[2][3].

The SummerSlam event was rife with rumors about a potential double-turn, with speculation suggesting Cena might revert to a babyface as Rhodes adopted heel traits. However, those theories were speculative and did not materialize during the actual event. Instead, Cena reclaimed his traditional babyface persona while Rhodes remained the heroic figure fans know and support, setting the stage for their high-stakes showdown without any drastic character shifts[3].

Sources close to WWE shared with Sportskeeda and other outlets that the company plans to keep Rhodes in his current role to maintain continuity and capitalize on his marketability. A heel turn at this moment could confuse the audience or dilute the clear narrative WWE has crafted around him as a resilient and likable champion[1].

This deliberate decision aligns with WWE’s broader strategy of preserving established character dynamics, especially for top-tier superstars who symbolize the brand. Rhodes’s prominence in promotional materials, merchandise, and community outreach reinforces the company’s investment in his babyface identity for both creative and business reasons[1].

In conclusion, while WWE creatively toys with audience expectations and occasional storyline ambiguity, Cody Rhodes’s future as a major babyface appears secure. Fans can expect to see the American Nightmare continue his championship pursuits and inspirational role without any immediate major character upheavals.

Backstage Insight: According to a WWE insider familiar with storyline development, “WWE sees Cody as their ‘gold standard’ hero right now. They want to build long-term emotionally with him rather than risk the backlash a heel turn sometimes brings, especially when he’s already a fan favorite and merchandise seller.”

This development underscores WWE’s commitment to steady character progression over shock turns for their flagship stars, ensuring that Cody Rhodes remains a banner figure leading the company forward.