In a churlish and tense closing moment at this year’s WrestleMania 40, Cody Rhodes became the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion over Roman Reigns, bringing Reigns’ long reign of dominance inside the ring to an end. In the uniquely stipulated ‘Bloodline Rules’ contest, Rhodes walked away with his hand raised high in victory at the climax battle on the second night of WrestleMania.

This stipulation came into effect following Rhodes and Seth Rollins’ loss to The Rock and Reigns on the opening night. Under these rules, Reigns’ allies, including Jimmy Uso, Solo Sikoa, and The Rock, were permitted to intervene.

However, Rhodes wasn’t without his own formidable backup. Seth Rollins donned his SHIELD attire to aid Rhodes, alongside Jey Uso, John Cena, and even The Undertaker, turning the tide in Rhodes’ favor.

Rhodes’ Decisive Victory

The match escalated quickly with both contenders exchanging their signature moves—from Rhodes’ Disaster Kicks and Cody Cutters to Reigns’ spears and Superman punches—each trying to outmaneuver the other.

The pivotal moment came when Rhodes delivered three consecutive Cross Rhodes to Reigns, who was momentarily distracted by Rollins, sealing the victory. Post-match celebrations saw Rhodes surrounded by fellow babyfaces like Kevin Owens, LA Knight, and Randy Orton, with his wife Brandi Rhodes, his mother, and Brodie Lee’s family also joining him in the ring.

In a touching moment, Rhodes took the microphone to express his gratitude towards Bruce Pritchard and invited Paul “Triple H” Levesque to the ring, marking the onset of what he described as a ‘new era’ in WWE. The night concluded with Rhodes thanking various members of the WWE roster, employees, and fans, highlighting his journey and the collaborative spirit of the wrestling community.

This victory not only signifies a monumental career milestone for Rhodes but also promises a fresh direction for WWE’s storytelling saga.