Cody Rhodes Ambushed After 1/27 WWE RAW Goes Off Air

The fireworks didn’t stop when WWE Raw ended on January 27. After the show went off the air in Atlanta’s State Farm Arena, Carmelo Hayes made a shocking statement by blindsiding Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes.

Hayes sprinted to the ring and attacked The American Nightmare, making it clear he wasn’t just there to watch. The former NXT Champion grabbed a mic and declared himself for the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble—but he didn’t stop there.

With the WWE Universe in shock, Hayes pulled a table from under the ring, seemingly setting the stage for something big. However, Cody wasn’t about to let that slide. The champ fought back, landing a Cross Rhodes before powerbombing Hayes straight through the table to send a message of his own.

Earlier in the night, Cody was already dealing with major drama. CM Punk interrupted the Undisputed WWE Champion, questioning whether the pressure of carrying the title was getting to him. Punk reminded Cody that being champion is exhausting, saying, “No one is Superman.” But then, he dropped a bombshell—he’s winning the Royal Rumble and coming for Cody at WrestleMania 41.

Cody fired back, acknowledging their history and reminding Punk that he used to chase him, but now the roles are reversed. The tension escalated quickly, and Cody made it clear he’s ready for whatever’s next.

While Hayes’ confidence was on full display, his actual status for the Royal Rumble match remains unconfirmed. Was this just an attempt to get inside Cody’s head before his upcoming ladder match with Kevin Owens, or is Melo really about to shake up the Rumble? Drop your thoughts below!