Nikunj Walia - Page 5

The premiere episode of WWE SmackDown on the USA Network ended on a high note, as an unlikely alliance between Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes has formed to take on their common enemies—Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fatu—in a tag team match at WWE Bad Blood.

The match came together after Reigns returned to SmackDown to aid Cody Rhodes, who had just survived a brutal steel cage match against Solo Sikoa to retain his Undisputed WWE Championship. As Rhodes was attacked by The Bloodline following the match, Reigns made a dramatic return to fend off the assault, setting the stage for their team-up at Bad Blood.

The tension continued to build on the September 20 edition of SmackDown, where Reigns and Rhodes met face-to-face at Georgia Tech’s field in Atlanta. The cinematic segment began with Reigns, known as “The OTC,” arriving in a convoy of cars, confidently walking onto the field. Moments later, Cody Rhodes pulled up in a sleek sports car, setting the scene for a confrontation between the two.

Standing in the center of the field, Reigns reminisced about his time playing football at Georgia Tech, claiming it as his territory. He then challenged Rhodes, asking what he had done for Atlanta, to which Cody responded by highlighting his family’s long history in the city, particularly their legacy at the State Farm Arena.

With the history lesson behind them, the focus shifted to their upcoming Bad Blood match. Reigns taunted Rhodes, reminding him of the Bloodline’s dominance, including their decimation of Roman’s own Wiseman, Jimmy Uso, and the symbolic loss of his Ula Fala. Cody fired back, stating that Reigns is no longer the Tribal Chief or the dominant World Champion he once was, reminding him that his kingdom is already crumbling.

Rhodes made it clear that he wants Reigns to watch his back during their tag team match at Bad Blood, but also hinted at a bigger goal—taking what he believes is rightfully his: the World Championship. Reigns, never one to back down, told Rhodes that after everything is settled, he would come straight for the title.

The segment concluded with both men attempting to walk away, only to repeatedly block each other’s path. Reigns cryptically told Rhodes, “You’re in my way in life,” before walking off, leaving the tension thick in the air as the show went off the air.

What are your thoughts on this unlikely alliance between Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes? Will they be able to coexist, or is another battle for the World Championship on the horizon? Let us know in the comments below!

What are your thoughts on Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes meeting face-to-face at Georgia Tech? Sound off in the comments!