Rikishi Gives Cody Rhodes a 6/10 as Babyface Champion

Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes is on the road to what many believe will be a monumental WrestleMania 41 match against The Rock.

While The Rock has been positioned as the heel in their ongoing feud, some fans have speculated that Cody might eventually embrace his darker side before the end of his wrestling career. His polished look, fancy suits, and perceived political persona have sparked rumors that a heel turn could be in his future.

During the latest episode of the “Off The Top” podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi rated Cody’s current run as champion and gave his thoughts on Cody possibly turning heel down the line. Rikishi didn’t hold back, giving Cody a rating of 6 out of 10 as a babyface champion and expressed his belief that Cody is destined for a villainous transformation.

“I think it’s a six. He’s trying so hard. To be a babyface champion of the company, that’s a lot of pressure,” Rikishi said. “Cody’s a great worker, but for me, I just feel he can be a better heel. He’s that guy with the suave look, and he’s a white boy. C’mon. He’s got the suits on. It’s almost like a Million Dollar Man type of vibe, a new era Million Dollar Man, just that heat seeker.”

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Rikishi continued to explain that Cody’s polished persona, combined with his undeniable in-ring skills, would make him an easy target for fan resentment if he fully embraced a villainous role. “It’s so easy to hate him. When you watch him wrestling, he does a lot of good stuff, but I think nowadays, to get heat, you gotta know how to move theatrical,” Rikishi added, envisioning a future where Cody controls the crowd with just a stare.

“The day he turns heel, I’m gonna be really happy for him because now he’s just gonna let loose on everybody.”

While there’s no immediate indication that Cody will be turning heel anytime soon, Rikishi’s thoughts have certainly sparked further speculation. Could a heel turn be in the cards for the champion as he winds down his career? Only time will tell.

What do you think of Rikishi’s take? Should Cody Rhodes embrace his inner villain? Share your thoughts and feedback in the comments below!