Cody Rhodes Embraces ‘Golden Boy’ Persona Ahead of WrestleMania 42 Title Defense
Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes is leaning into the “golden boy” label as he prepares to defend his title against Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas, Nevada, on April 18th. Rhodes recently discussed his mindset and preparation for the match, revealing a shift in perspective regarding a previously critical term.
Finding Identity Through the ‘Golden Boy’ Moniker
Rhodes shared in an interview with Complex’s Graps the Podcast that he initially perceived the term “golden boy” as a negative one, but has since embraced it as a potential defining characteristic of his current championship reign. “I heard a term that was said in a condescending fashion, but I didn’t grab it that way; I actually blushed,” Rhodes explained. “I heard someone say ‘golden boy,’ and I loved it.”
He intends to further embody this persona, potentially influencing his attire and presentation at WrestleMania 42. “I might even dial up my WrestleMania gear to lean into it further,” Rhodes hinted, adding that he wants this reign to solidify his identity within professional wrestling.
Road to WrestleMania 42
Rhodes reclaimed the Undisputed WWE Championship from Drew McIntyre on SmackDown last week, securing his place in the WrestleMania 42 main event. The path to this rematch was fraught with interference from McIntyre, including incidents during the Elimination Chamber match and the Royal Rumble. Following the Elimination Chamber, SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis scheduled a title match between Rhodes and McIntyre, which Rhodes won to regain the championship. WrestleMania will be held on Saturday, April 18th at 6/5 PMC.
Orton’s Path to a Championship Opportunity
Randy Orton earned his title shot by winning the Elimination Chamber match, overcoming Cody Rhodes, LA Knight, Logan Paul, Trick Williams, and Je’Von Evans. The victory was aided by interference from Drew McIntyre, setting the stage for the championship clash at WrestleMania. Orton is a 14-time World Champion, a Grand Slam Champion, a two-time Royal Rumble winner, and a Money in the Bank winner.
WrestleMania 42 Landscape
Alongside the Undisputed WWE Championship match, WrestleMania 42 will also feature CM Punk defending his World Heavyweight Championship against Roman Reigns. The event promises to be a significant showcase for WWE’s top stars.
Both Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton were aware of the WrestleMania 42 plans as early as January, according to Fightful Select.