Russo casts doubt over Rhodes' ability to lead WWE

Cody Rhodes. Hali Tauxe/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

Vince Russo casts doubt over Cody Rhodes' ability to lead WWE

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 10/15/23

Cody Rhodes is one of the most popular wrestlers on the planet. "The American Nightmare" is the quintessential babyface.

Since returning to WWE last year, Rhodes has become a major draw and merchandise moves. Rhodes is viewed as a superstar of the future.

However, Vince Russo isn't sold. The incredible wrestling mind doesn't believe Rhodes can be "that guy." Speaking on a recent episode of Sportskeeda's "The Wrestling Outlaws," Russo stated, "The American Nightmare" is someone who can hold a title but not lead the company.

"I look at Cody Rhodes the very same way," Russo said. "He would be my Jeff Jarrett. He's a great wrestler, he could get heels over, and he gets hurt a little bit more than Jeff did, but somebody you can definitely depend on to carry that title ... I don't think he's that guy. I think he's a good little hand, he's a great wrestler, he could carry your belt, but I don't think he has that kind of star power. That's just my opinion."

Russo's experience within wrestling ensures that his opinion is heard. However, Rhodes has proven that he's capable of being "the guy" for WWE. Rhodes was the face of AEW during his tenure with the company and oversaw a period of huge growth.

A downside to Rhodes is that he's rarely the heel. His role as a babyface fits his character arc perfectly. Heel turns are generally when a star takes the step from champion to the face of the company.

Every great champion has been a heel in their time. Yet, for Rhodes, that turn is hard to envision. But just because we haven't seen it happen doesn't mean it isn't possible.

Eventually, the WWE will need to mastermind Rhodes, becoming a "nightmare." When that happens, he will undoubtedly ascend to his spot at the top of the company. Rhodes has the talent. He's just waiting his turn.

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