Cody Rhodes responds to rumours about taking Triple H's WWE creative job

The Creative Pitch

Cody Rhodes is already the on-screen anchor of WWE. Now, the Undisputed WWE Champion is addressing the ultimate backstage rumour: whether he will eventually succeed Paul "Triple H" Levesque as the head of WWE creative. The talk has intensified as Rhodes takes on more behind-the-scenes responsibilities during his current championship run.

As reported by Wrestling Inc, Rhodes recently commented on his willingness to step into the chief creative role. He also outlined other executive avenues he wants to explore within the company once his active wrestling career concludes. This is not just idle chatter; it is a glimpse into the long-term succession plan for the industry leader.

From Stardust to Executive Vice President

Rhodes has the unique resume required for a top corporate booking position. He left WWE in 2016 after growing frustrated with the comedy Stardust gimmick. He spent the next three years rebuilding his brand on the independent scene, Ring of Honor, and New Japan Pro-Wrestling.

He proved he could draw money outside the WWE machine. That journey culminated in 2019 when he co-founded All Elite Wrestling alongside Tony Khan and the Young Bucks. As an Executive Vice President, Rhodes ran creative meetings, produced television segments, and booked matches.

He understands the pressure of programming live television under Warner Bros. Discovery oversight. His return to WWE at WrestleMania 38 changed the balance of power. Winning the Undisputed WWE Championship from Roman Reigns at WrestleMania XL cemented him as the top star.

At 41 years old, Rhodes is thinking about his second act. He knows his body cannot take the punishment of the road forever.

Why the WWE Booking Chair Fits Rhodes

Rhodes is a wrestling traditionalist who respects the history of the business. He is the son of Dusty Rhodes, one of the most famous bookers in wrestling history. Dusty booked Jim Crockett Promotions and later helped build NXT.

Cody grew up watching how stories were constructed from the ground up. His creative philosophy leans heavily on clear babyface and heel dynamics. He prefers long-term story arcs that reward fans for their patience.

In WWE, this classic booking style has flourished under Triple H, who took over creative control in 2022. Rhodes wants to continue that momentum when the time comes. He also possesses the public relations skills needed for the job.

He represents the company at upfronts, press conferences, and charity events. Unlike previous bookers, Rhodes maintains a professional, corporate-friendly demeanor that appeals to TKO executives. He speaks the language of both wrestlers and television executives.

Evaluating the Rumour and the Risks

The rumour stems directly from Rhodes' own comments. In his interview with Wrestling Inc, he did not dodge the question about succeeding Triple H. He addressed the creative head role directly, while also mentioning other backstage areas he would like to influence.

This gives the rumour a high level of credibility regarding his personal ambitions. However, we must separate his willingness from actual corporate planning. WWE has not issued any statements regarding a succession plan for Triple H.

The current chief content officer remains firmly in control of the product. The rumors represent a potential future rather than an imminent change. It is also worth noting that Rhodes' comments were measured.

He did not claim he was actively campaigning for the job today. Instead, he framed it as a possibility for when his in-ring days are done. This suggests a timeline of years, not months.

The Pitfalls of the Codyverse

Wrestling fans must remember that Rhodes' creative track record is not flawless. His final year in AEW was marked by booking decisions that polarized the audience. He created the "Codyverse," a self-contained section of the show that felt detached from the rest of the product.

His storylines dragged on without satisfying resolutions. He also locked himself into a stipulation where he could never challenge for the AEW World Championship. This decision limited his booking options and frustrated fans who wanted to see him in the main event.

It showed a stubbornness that could be problematic in a head booker. A creative chief must remain flexible to changing crowd reactions. His booking of the faction warfare with the Factory and Anthony Ogogo was heavily criticized.

The matches failed to draw ratings and left young talent in limbo. If he takes the book in WWE, he will have to avoid these self-indulgent tendencies. He must book for the entire roster, not just his personal vision.

The Creative Clash: Levesque vs. Rhodes

Triple H's booking style is defined by long-term factions and stable-based storytelling. The Judgment Day, Damage CTRL, and the Bloodline have dominated WWE television for years under his watch. This model relies on group dynamics and overlapping storylines that keep multiple performers occupied at once.

Rhodes, by contrast, operates on a more individualistic level. His storytelling centers on the hero's journey, a classic babyface overcoming insurmountable odds. In AEW, he focused on personal feuds with clear stakes, like his rivalry with Dustin Rhodes at Double or Nothing 2019.

He prefers singular focal points over massive group warfare. A Rhodes-led creative team would likely scale back the faction-heavy focus. He would place more emphasis on individual title pursuits and personal animosity.

The shift would alter the weekly rhythm of Raw and SmackDown. It would move away from Triple H's signature opening promo segments featuring stables.

The Verdict: Probability and Impact

Probability Assessment

The probability of Cody Rhodes becoming the WWE head of creative in the next three years is low. Triple H is highly successful in the role and has the backing of TKO management. There is no logical reason to replace him while business is booming.

Rhodes is also far too valuable as the active champion on SmackDown. In the five-to-ten-year window, the probability rises to medium-high. Rhodes has the corporate backing and the booking pedigree to step into the role.

He is one of the few active wrestlers with actual executive experience. He would be a natural fit to lead the creative team when Triple H decides to step back. Other contenders exist, including Shawn Michaels, who currently runs NXT creative.

Michaels has earned praise for developing young talent in Orlando. Rhodes would face competition for the job, but his crossover appeal gives him an edge. He is the prime candidate to carry the torch forward.

Expected Timeline and Impact

Do not expect a transition anytime soon. Rhodes is signed to a lucrative long-term contract as a performer. He will likely remain an active wrestler until at least 2030.

Any transition to a full-time backstage executive role will happen after his retirement match. If he does take the book, the impact will be felt across the entire product. We would likely see a return to more traditional territory-style booking.

He would prioritize clean babyface runs and clear, simple storylines. The focus would remain on heavy emotional investment and historical callbacks. The roster would also see a shift.

Rhodes has always championed undercard talent and workhorse wrestlers. We could see a push for technical wrestlers who can deliver long, athletic matches. The backstage culture would benefit from an executive who has stood in the ring and understands the physical toll of the job.