WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes Expected Return October 3 SmackDown

Cody Rhodes, the reigning Undisputed WWE Champion, has been absent from WWE television since a brutal attack by Drew McIntyre on August 8, 2025, which left him temporarily written off TV. Rhodes’ absence is also due to his filming commitments for the live-action “Street Fighter” movie, where he plays Guile, with filming expected to conclude by late September. Despite missing recent WWE events, Rhodes is advertised to return on the October 3, 2025, episode of SmackDown in Cincinnati, Ohio. In addition to his professional activities, Rhodes and his wife Brandi recently welcomed their second child, Leilani Ella Runnels, in late August. There is speculation about a possible heel turn for Rhodes, with some wrestling insiders suggesting creative changes may be forthcoming following his recent feud with John Cena and ensuing fan reactions. WWE fans eagerly await his return and what direction his character might take next.