Wrestlemania 40 Results: Cody Rhodes DETRONES Roman Reigns to become new Universal Champion as Tribal Chief’s 1,316 days run ends and other results from epic night
Since departing WWE in 2016, Cody Rhodes embarked on a remarkable journey to carve his own path in the wrestling world.
His time on the independent scene saw him redefine himself and establish All Elite Wrestling (AEW) as a major player in the industry.
However, one goal remained elusive: capturing the world championship that had eluded his father, the revered "American Dream" Dusty Rhodes.
His return at WrestleMania 38 marked the beginning of his quest to achieve that dream.
The Epic Showdown WrestleMania 40 Showdown: Battling Against the Odds
As the lights dimmed and the crowd roared, Cody Rhodes stood face-to-face with Roman Reigns, the imposing Universal Champion, in a match shrouded in uncertainty.
With "Bloodline Rules" in effect, Rhodes knew he was in for a battle unlike any other.
The stipulation meant no disqualifications, giving Reigns' Bloodline faction free rein to wreak havoc.
But Rhodes was undeterred, fueled by a burning desire to etch his name in the annals of wrestling history.
How Cody Rhodes ended Roman Reigns’ epic run as WWE Universal Champion to officially kick start the Paul Lavesque era
As the match unfolded, chaos ensued as expected.
Reigns unleashed his trademark brutality, but Rhodes fought back with everything he had.
When it seemed like all hope was lost, a chorus of familiar music echoed throughout the arena.
Jey Uso, Seth Rollins, John Cena, and even The Undertaker emerged from the shadows, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Rhodes against the onslaught of the Bloodline.
Roman Reigns seemed to mentally struggle with the thought of the heartbreak Seth committed 10 year prior.
Instead of taking out Cody for the win, the Tribal Chief and Head of the Table seemingly chose to attack his former ally instead, which would eventually lead to his dethronment.
TEN YEARS IN THE MAKING.#WrestleMania pic.twitter.com/z6gwSwMNXH
— WWE (@WWE) April 8, 2024
With sheer determination and the unwavering support of his allies, Rhodes executed the Cross Rhodes, laying Reigns flat on the canvas.
In a moment that will be etched in WrestleMania lore, Cody Rhodes delivered the defining blow.
The referee's hand hit the mat for the third and final time, signaling the end of Reigns' historic reign and the beginning of a new era.
FINISHED. THE. STORY. ❤️#CodyRhodes earned that #WrestleMania moment. pic.twitter.com/U5IAnBimgv
— WWE (@WWE) April 8, 2024
However, that was not before Jimmy Uso, Sikoa and The Rock’s attempted interference to help the Tribal chief retain his title was effectively snuffed out by John Cena, The Undertaker and Jey Uso.
UNDERTAKER!!!!!!#WrestleMania pic.twitter.com/zUlo3bItZu
— WWE (@WWE) April 8, 2024
ROCK. CENA.
— WWE (@WWE) April 8, 2024
WRESTLEMANIA. pic.twitter.com/3OHIA3wRWS
Cody Rhodes’ victory officially marked the beginning of Paul Lavesque (Triple H)’s era in the WWE following the resignation of Vince McMahon as CEO as Rhodes finally ‘finished the story’ ending Reigns' run as world champion at 1,316 days.
THIS. IS. WWE. ❤️#WrestleMania pic.twitter.com/lprQnyXPrz
— WWE (@WWE) April 8, 2024
When you DO THE WORK, you go from UNDESIRABLE TO UNDENIABLE!#CodyRhodes rules at #WrestleMania XL! pic.twitter.com/5ZzUKCdD3y
— WWE (@WWE) April 8, 2024
With tears of joy streaming down his face, Rhodes lifted the undisputed WWE Universal Championship high above his head, finally fulfilling the dream that had driven him for so long.
Hear what @TripleH has to say about @CodyRhodes at the #WrestleMania XL Press Conference! pic.twitter.com/CJDVVybYRX
— WWE (@WWE) April 8, 2024
Other Results from WrestleMania 40
World Heavyweight Championship
The night saw Drew McIntyre's reign as champion tested, first defeating Seth Rollins before ultimately losing to the emerging Damian Priest.
WWE Women's Championship
Bayley emerged victorious, dethroning the formidable Iyo Sky and cementing her place atop the women's division.
United States Championship
Logan Paul managed to retain his title in a grueling triple threat match against Kevin Owens and Randy Orton, proving his mettle in the face of adversity.
Tag Team Match
In a battle that spilled out into the streets of Philadelphia, Bobby Lashley & The Street Profits emerged triumphant over The Final Testament
LA Knight vs. AJ Styles
The night also featured a clash of titans as LA Knight secured a shocking victory over the legendary AJ Styles, solidifying his place among the elite of sports entertainment, as he is now poised to turn his attention to the new WWE Universal champion.