The wrestling world was abuzz with excitement when Cody Rhodes triumphantly lifted the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania 40, marking his first reign with the title after besting Roman Reigns. This victory was made all the more thrilling owing to his previous year’s setback.
It emerged from earlier reports that Rhodes was originally set to overcome Reigns and claim the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania 39. Triple H and Vince McMahon had initially endorsed this outcome. Nevertheless, in a turn of events, Roman Reigns emerged victorious and retained his championship.
Information disclosed in a recent issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter by Dave Meltzer indicated that the initial plans had Rhodes capturing the title at WrestleMania 39. It was, instead, the influence of Paul Heyman and Roman Reigns that swayed McMahon and Triple H to reverse the original finish, ensuring Reigns retained.
“Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman persuaded both Vince McMahon and Paul Levesque last year to alter the WrestleMania 39 finale to result in Roman Reigns defeating Cody Rhodes.”
While the exact reasons behind this decision have not been disclosed, the outcome evidently served Rhodes well. His loss added to his momentum, essentially heightening the drama and anticipation leading into the main event of WrestleMania 40—where he faced defeat the previous year.
With opinions split, the question lingers on whether Roman Reigns should have conceded his WrestleMania 39 main event match. Fans and followers of the WWE Universe are invited to share their thoughts in the comments section below.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Was Cody Rhodes supposed to win at WrestleMania 39?
Yes, Cody Rhodes was initially slated to win the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 39, according to earlier reports.
- Who influenced the change in the match result?
Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman were influential in changing the decision, convincing Vince McMahon and Triple H for Reigns to retain the title.
- Did the change in WrestleMania 39’s outcome benefit Cody Rhodes?
Many believe that Cody Rhodes’ loss at WrestleMania 39 actually built up momentum for his character, making his eventual victory at WrestleMania 40 more dramatic and satisfying for the fans.
- What are fans saying about the decision?
The wrestling community is divided with some questioning if Reigns should have been the one to come out on top at WrestleMania 39. Fans are encouraged to express their opinions on the matter.
Conclusion
The spirit of wrestling thrives on unexpected turns and the scripting of its storylines. The reveal that Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman played a decisive role in altering the outcome of the main event at WrestleMania 39 adds another layer to the rich narrative tapestry of WWE. Despite the initial plans for Cody Rhodes to win, the amended result crafted a path that eventually led to a rewarding culmination at WrestleMania 40. This twist in the tale showcases the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of professional wrestling, where not only the athletes but also their behind-the-scenes decisions shape the sport’s history.