Currently, The Rock and Cody Rhodes are not on great terms with one another in WWE. Their relationship has evidently deteriorated, moving into a complex and challenging phase that reflects a genuine animosity rather than professional camaraderie.
The State of Their Relationship
Recent events within WWE have significantly strained the relationship between Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Cody Rhodes. What initially appeared to be a storyline setup for the main event of WrestleMania 40 quickly escalated into a situation where their personal dynamics became notably tense.
Cody Rhodes has openly discussed the intricacies of his relationship with The Rock, emphasizing how deeply personal and "very real" the situation became when The Rock re-entered the picture with a prominent role. This indicates that the issues between them extend beyond typical professional rivalries, suggesting a deeper breakdown in their rapport.
Why Their Dynamic Changed
The friction primarily stemmed from the lead-up to WrestleMania 40. A widely anticipated match between The Rock and Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship threatened to sideline Cody Rhodes, who had earned the right to "finish his story" by challenging Reigns after winning the Royal Rumble. This pivotal moment ignited a strong reaction from fans and led to the direct confrontation between Rhodes and The Rock.
The ensuing narrative, which saw The Rock align with Roman Reigns and embrace a villainous persona, intensified the animosity. Cody Rhodes has explicitly indicated that the circumstances surrounding this period led to a significant deterioration in their relationship. The situation underscored a genuine rift, as both competitors vied for the top spot and the respect of the WWE Universe.
Key Aspects of Their Current Relationship:
- Not on Great Terms: Their current dynamic is characterized by a notable lack of camaraderie or mutual appreciation.
- "Very Real" Tension: According to Rhodes, the conflict was not merely a manufactured storyline but reflected a genuine personal and professional deterioration between them.
- Competitive Conflict: Their issues are deeply rooted in direct competition for top-tier opportunities and a struggle for perceived dominance within the WWE landscape, leading to real-world friction.
This ongoing tension underscores that, at present, The Rock and Cody Rhodes do not share a cordial or appreciative relationship.
