4 Opponents for Cody Rhodes at WWE Night of Champions

Cody Rhodes survived one of the toughest challenges of his Undisputed WWE Championship reign at Clash in Italy. Despite a highly controversial finish against Gunther, The American Nightmare once again proved why he remains the face of the company heading into the summer.

With Night of Champions rapidly approaching, speculation has already begun regarding who could be next in line for a title opportunity. Cody has defeated several elite names during his championship run. However, there are still a handful of superstars capable of stepping up and creating compelling rivalries.

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Some contenders have unfinished business with the champion. Meanwhile, others are rising stars looking for the biggest opportunity of their careers. Regardless of who ultimately receives the next title shot, WWE has plenty of intriguing directions it can explore.

That said, in this article, we look at four opponents for Cody Rhodes at Night of Champions.

#4. Gunther

If WWE wants to continue the controversy from Clash in Italy, Gunther may be the most logical challenger. The Ring General came incredibly close to dethroning Cody Rhodes before a disputed finish changed the outcome of the match.

During the decisive pinfall, replay footage showed Gunther’s leg underneath the bottom rope. According to WWE rules, that should have resulted in a rope break and stopped the count. Instead, the referee counted to three and awarded Rhodes the victory.

The ending immediately sparked debate among fans. Also, it has become one of the biggest talking points coming out of the premium live event. More importantly, it gives Gunther a legitimate reason to demand another championship opportunity.

WWE has frequently used controversial finishes to extend rivalries. Hence, this situation feels tailor-made for a rematch. The Ring General can argue that he was robbed of the championship. Meanwhile, Cody can insist that he merely capitalized on the referee’s decision. The story practically writes itself.

A rematch at Night of Champions would allow WWE to settle the controversy while giving fans another blockbuster encounter between two of the company’s top stars.

#3. Royce Keys

One of WWE’s fastest-rising stars could soon find himself in the championship picture. Royce Keys has steadily built momentum throughout 2026 and continues to establish himself as a future main-event player. His athleticism, confidence, and ability to connect with audiences have made him one of the most exciting emerging talents on the roster.

A match against Cody Rhodes would represent the biggest opportunity of his WWE career. Unlike some of the more established names on this list, Keys doesn’t necessarily need to win the championship. Simply sharing the ring with Rhodes in a major title match could elevate him significantly.

The global juggernaut has often used championship programs to create new stars. Hence, the former AEW standout appears to be an ideal candidate for that treatment.

The dynamic between the two men would also be fascinating. The American Nightmare represents the established face of the company. Meanwhile, Keys symbolizes the next generation trying to break through.

Even in defeat, a strong showing against Cody Rhodes could cement Royce Keys as a future world champion. If WWE wants to create a new star while giving Cody a fresh opponent, Keys could be an excellent choice for Night of Champions.

#2. Randy Orton

A returning Randy Orton could instantly create one of the biggest matches WWE can book. The Viper has been absent since losing to Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 42, leaving fans wondering when he will make his long-awaited return. Given Orton’s history with Rhodes, a comeback centered around the Undisputed WWE Championship would make perfect sense.

Their match at ‘Mania 42 was a major attraction. However, the rivalry still feels like it has unfinished business, especially after Cody’s post-match attack at the hands of The Viper.

Randy Orton could easily return and argue that one loss doesn’t erase everything he has accomplished throughout his legendary career. As one of WWE’s most decorated champions, he would immediately be viewed as a credible threat to Rhodes’ reign.

Perhaps most importantly, Night of Champions is the type of event that benefits from marquee matches featuring established stars. Hence, a returning Randy Orton challenging Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship would undoubtedly be a blockbuster rematch.

#1. Jacob Fatu could challenge Cody Rhodes

Perhaps no challenger feels more dangerous to Cody Rhodes right now than Jacob Fatu. Although Fatu suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Roman Reigns at Clash in Italy, he remains one of the most popular and explosive superstars on the roster. In many ways, the loss may actually make him an even more compelling challenger.

The Samoan Werewolf has spent the past year proving that he belongs at the top of the division. His unmatched intensity and unpredictable offense make him a threat to anyone standing across the ring from him.

After falling short against Reigns, Fatu may decide that pursuing the Undisputed WWE Championship is the fastest path back to the top. The story would be incredibly compelling. The duo even has a storied history in the Stamford-based promotion.

A frustrated Jacob Fatu could enter Night of Champions determined to redeem himself after the biggest disappointment of his career. Meanwhile, Cody Rhodes would be forced to deal with arguably the most dangerous challenger he has faced since becoming champion.