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- Former World Heavyweight Champion would rather face Cody Rhodes than John Cena
Former World Heavyweight Champion would rather face Cody Rhodes than John Cena
Inside: Ryback in-ring return update and more
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John Cena may be the reigning Undisputed WWE Champion, but not everyone is lining up to challenge him. Despite being one of the most dominant Superstars over the past year, Drew McIntyre recently stated in an interview with Sports Illustrated that he has no interest in facing Cena right now.
While McIntyre praised Cena’s promo on CM Punk, calling it impactful, he also claimed that “The Greatest of All Time has gone soft.” Instead of targeting Cena, McIntyre revealed that he’s more interested in battling Cody Rhodes, whom he sees as a more worthy and focused opponent. This surprising stance adds an intriguing wrinkle to the championship picture heading into SummerSlam season.
 Drew McIntyre has shut down recent speculation regarding his brief absence from WWE. Following his grueling Steel Cage match against Damian Priest at Saturday Night’s Main Event in May, rumors swirled that the Scottish Warrior was injured and needed time to recover. However, in a recent interview with Sports Illustrated, McIntyre clarified that his hiatus was planned, not injury-related. He shared that stepping away helped him reset mentally and reflect on his performance, admitting he had been “holding himself back” in certain ways. Now refreshed, McIntyre is back with renewed focus and intensity. |  Former Intercontinental Champion Ryback has clarified that he doesn’t see himself returning to WWE anytime soon. In a recent Instagram post, the 43-year-old shared that while he has made peace with the company, health concerns and past experiences continue to keep him away from making a comeback. Ryback noted that his wrestling career was heavily impacted by injuries and acknowledged that his days as an in-ring competitor are behind him. However, he did leave the door slightly ajar, stating he might reconsider only if The Rock were to get involved in some capacity. |
FROM THE RUMOR MILL
WWE is going all out to build hype for SummerSlam 2025, with major names both in and out of the ring. The highly anticipated Undisputed WWE Championship match between John Cena and Cody Rhodes is already set, and now Cardi B has been confirmed as the official host for the two-night event in New Jersey.
Adding even more star power, country music sensation Jelly Roll is also set to appear. While initially announced for this week’s SmackDown, a new report from PWInsider suggests he’s doing more than just showing up. Jelly Roll is reportedly training for in-ring action, hinting at a surprise debut or cameo match at SummerSlam on August 2 and 3.
TOP FEATURES
Roman Reigns’ return to WWE appears to be just around the corner, and it’s poised to be a game-changing moment for the company. The Original Tribal Chief is expected to reignite his rivalry with Seth Rollins, setting up a high-stakes showdown that could shake RAW to its core.
With Reigns already advertised for SummerSlam 2025, speculation is heating up around the direction of his comeback. One exciting possibility being discussed is Reigns tapping back into his 'Big Dog' persona and forming a modern-day Shield with LA Knight and CM Punk to counter Rollins’ rising heel faction
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Uncle Howdy to kick two WWE stars out of Wyatt Sicks for failing to win Tag Team Titles? - Uncle Howdy may be unhappy.
Rhea Ripley to lose at WWE Evolution after highly anticipated return of top superstar? - Mami may not have expected that.
ANALYSIS CORNER
Tonight’s episode of WWE SmackDown promises high-octane action as it serves as the go-home show ahead of both Evolution 2 and Saturday Night’s Main Event. Broadcasting live from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, TN, the blue brand is set to deliver key developments leading into the weekend's major events.
Country music star Jelly Roll will appear as a special guest, adding star power to an already stacked show. WWE has also confirmed several matches for the night, ensuring that tensions run high just before the blockbuster Premium Live Events kick off.
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3 New Bloodline members who could debut in WWE at Saturday Night’s Main Event - SNME may see The Bloodline grow.
4 Ways The Ring General could be removed from Saturday Night's Main Event - Goldberg may have to wait.
3 reasons why Solo Sikoa is defending the WWE United States Championship against Jimmy Uso - The brothers will implode at SNME.
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