THREE POSSIBILITIESCody Rhodes wanted a WrestleMania-worthy opponent. Skeletor says he has found one. With the name still under wraps, here are three possibilities worth debating—not a tip-off about the general manager’s choice.
1. AJ Styles — the headline attraction
Styles is the kind of name that makes a hometown WrestleMania match feel enormous. A meeting with Cody would sell itself on the two men involved. The obstacle? AJ has just formed a partnership with Chris Jericho. Pulling him into Cody’s orbit immediately could leave that new direction without room to breathe.
2. Bobby Lashley — the physical test
Lashley reached the Elimination Chamber after winning his qualifier in Athens. He gives Skeletor a credible answer if the aim is to test Cody against power rather than sentiment. But qualifying for Chamber is not the same as building a personal issue with Rhodes. This choice would need a compelling reason beyond “big opponent, big occasion.”
3. Sheamus — the fight Cody did not prepare for
Sheamus competed in the Royal Rumble and chased a Chamber place in Dublin. He would offer a direct, bruising challenge in Atlanta. The drawback is momentum: Knight won their qualifier. Skeletor would be choosing the threat he believes Sheamus poses, rather than rewarding a recent marquee victory.
My pick for the most immediately exciting possibility is Styles. My biggest reservation is also Styles: WWE CJ has only just given him something new with Jericho. Whoever walks out, Cody’s homecoming needs an opponent with a purpose, not simply a recognisable entrance.