Seth Rollins had a mystery opponent at WrestleMania 38, and it was revealed to be none other than “The American Nightmare” Cody Rhodes!
In the lead up to WrestleMania 38, Seth Rollins was desperate to have a match on WWE’s biggest show of the year. After losing multiple last-chance matches, Vince McMahon told Rollins he would have a match at WrestleMania, but it would be against an opponent of his choosing.
Rollins made his way to the ring inside AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas and awaited his opponent. Pyrotechnics went off on the ring posts and the lights went out, then “Kingdom” by Downstait was played throughout the venue. Sure enough, “The American Nightmare” Cody Rhodes rose to the stage as Rollins’ challenger!
WWE fans lost their minds at ‘American Nightmare’ Cody Rhodes appearing at WrestleMania 38
Fans and members of the media reacted to Rhodes making his return to WWE for the first time in six years.
In what was a fun back and forth match, Rhodes eventually picked up the win over Rollins. After hitting two Cross Rhodes finishers, Rhodes hit his father’s, “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes, signature punches before hitting a third Cross Rhodes to pick up the victory.
Rhodes lat appeared in WWE in 2016, when he requested his release. After spending time with Ring of Honor and New Japan Pro Wrestling, Rhodes served as an executive vice president for All Elite Wrestling since its inception in 2018.
Earlier this year, Rhodes announced his departure from AEW, and reports indicated that he would join WWE soon. Then, he was linked to a match with Rollins at WrestleMania.
Rhodes is now back in WWE, has his full “American Nightmare” persona and earned the win at WrestleMania in his first match back in six years. What a moment for Rhodes and wrestling fans viewing the show.
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