In a surprising turn of events on WWE SmackDown, Jey Uso, fresh off his monumental victory at the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble, confronted Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, signaling his intent to challenge for the title at WrestleMania 41. This confrontation has set the stage for a highly anticipated showdown between two of WWE’s most dynamic superstars.
Jey Uso’s journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. Emerging as the winner of the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble, he secured his spot in the main event of WrestleMania 41. His victory was particularly poignant, as he eliminated WWE legend John Cena to claim the win, marking a significant milestone in his career. This triumph not only underscored Jey’s resilience and determination but also highlighted his readiness to step into the spotlight as a singles competitor.
The history between Jey Uso and Cody Rhodes adds an intriguing layer to their impending clash. In October 2023, the duo teamed up to capture the Undisputed Tag Team Championship from The Judgment Day’s Finn Bálor and Damian Priest. Although their reign was brief, lasting only nine days, it showcased their chemistry and mutual respect. This shared history now transitions into a rivalry, as both athletes prepare to face each other on the grandest stage of them all.
Cody Rhodes, who has been a dominant force since his return to WWE in 2022, successfully defended his Undisputed WWE Championship against Kevin Owens at the Royal Rumble. His reign has been marked by a series of high-profile matches and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The prospect of facing Jey Uso, a competitor with whom he shares a storied past, presents a unique challenge for the champion.
The dynamics within The Bloodline faction further complicate this narrative. Roman Reigns, the undisputed Tribal Chief and Jey Uso’s cousin, has been a central figure in WWE’s landscape. His reaction to Jey’s Royal Rumble victory was notably succinct, as he took to social media with a one-word message: “YEET!” This response has left fans speculating about Reigns’ true feelings regarding Jey’s ascent and his potential challenge to Rhodes.
The relationship between Reigns and Jey has experienced its share of turbulence. In the summer of 2023, Jey was embroiled in a deeply personal rivalry with Reigns, which led to his departure from The Bloodline. This feud was marked by intense confrontations and a struggle for dominance within the family hierarchy. However, recent developments suggest a possible reconciliation, with Reigns expressing support for Jey following his Royal Rumble win.
As WrestleMania 41 approaches, the WWE Universe is abuzz with anticipation. The potential match between Jey Uso and Cody Rhodes promises to be a compelling encounter, blending personal history, family dynamics, and the pursuit of championship glory. Fans are eager to see how this storyline unfolds and whether Jey can capitalize on his momentum to dethrone Rhodes.
In the weeks leading up to WrestleMania, all eyes will be on SmackDown to witness the interactions between Jey Uso, Cody Rhodes, and Roman Reigns. The evolving narrative promises to deliver high drama and intense action, hallmarks of WWE’s premier events. As the road to WrestleMania continues, the WWE Universe awaits with bated breath to see who will emerge victorious in this high-stakes confrontation.
