Cody Rhodes Reveals Why He Refused The Rock’s Offer

Cody Rhodes isn’t about to bow down to The Final Boss—and now he’s explaining exactly why.

Speaking with ESPN’s First Take, the Undisputed WWE Champion addressed the moment earlier this year when The Rock offered him a spot by his side on Friday Night SmackDown. While it looked like a career-defining opportunity, Rhodes turned it down—leading to John Cena stepping in at Elimination Chamber 2025 and turning on Cody in one of WWE’s most shocking betrayals.

So why did Rhodes walk away from The Rock’s offer? The answer, according to him, is simple: it didn’t feel real.

“Mainly because it’s a lot and a bit vague, and what I said to him in the ring again. This is a very real situation, and I said what I said,” Cody explained. “I gave my soul up to the wrestling audience and the ring years and years ago. I don’t know how much more I would have to give, and I also don’t know truthfully what The Rock was offering. Maybe, TBD; you never know with The Final Boss.”

Rhodes has stood firm in his decision not to side with The Rock, even as the road to WrestleMania 41 has grown more chaotic. Cena’s betrayal and The Rock’s looming presence have only raised the stakes—but Cody continues to stand alone, refusing to sell out for power or protection.