Eric Bischoff Says a Cody Rhodes Heel Turn Feels Inevitable

Cody Rhodes has spent years positioning himself as WWE’s ultimate modern-day babyface, but according to Eric Bischoff, that run may be approaching a natural turning point.

During the latest episode of 83 Weeks, Bischoff weighed in on the idea of shocking heel turns in 2026, and while several names were floated by fans, Cody Rhodes stood out for a very different reason. In Bischoff’s view, Cody wouldn’t be a surprise turn at all — and that’s exactly why it could work.

Bischoff explained that when Conrad Thompson raised the question of which top babyface could deliver the most impactful heel turn next year, Cody was the first name that came to mind. However, he immediately dismissed it as “shocking,” arguing that the groundwork has already been laid through Cody’s long-term positioning at the top of the card.

“Nobody comes to mind. You know, as you were talking and laying it out, I knew you was going to get the question. I was kind of rifling through in my mind. You know, first name that comes to mind obviously Cody Rhodes, but then he’s not on that list because it’s obvious, right?”

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Rather than framing a potential turn as a betrayal of the audience, Bischoff described it as the logical next chapter in Cody’s arc — one driven by timing rather than spectacle.

“I don’t think anybody’s going to be surprised if and when that happens because that’s the natural evolution of a character and the length of time before something significant happens to hit the refresh button.”

Later in the show, Bischoff was asked directly whether he believes a Cody Rhodes heel turn is coming in 2026. His answer was firm, but deliberate, stressing that the execution matters far more than the moment itself.

“I do. I do. I’m feeling it a little bit when I see Cody come out and hear him in his promos. I just — I think it’s time. Not right now, not tonight, but sometime this year.”

Bischoff made it clear that the worst possible approach would be a sudden, flashy swerve designed purely for shock value. Instead, he argued that Cody’s turn should feel inevitable, unfolding slowly in a way that pulls the audience deeper into the story.

“I think it will almost become a natural evolution, which is the way it should be — instead of, ‘Oh, let’s come up with a dazzly heel turn.’”

Drawing from his own experience crafting long-term narratives, Bischoff explained that subtle changes — not dramatic betrayals — are what create lasting impact.

“I really like a slow build. I want somebody to get me really sucked into the story before that happens… and I think it’s time for Cody.”

The comments come at a moment when Rhodes remains one of WWE’s most trusted and protected stars, making the idea of a heel turn both risky and potentially transformative. If WWE does pull the trigger, Bischoff’s comments suggest the payoff won’t come from shock — it’ll come from patience.

A Cody Rhodes heel turn may not blindside fans, but if it’s done the right way, it could redefine his legacy all over again.

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