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Cody Rhodes finally finished the story as he pinned Roman Reigns to become the new face of the WWE amid a chaotic Night 2 of WrestleMania 40.
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.
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07:59 - 09.02.2024
WWE WrestleMania 40 Press Conference Recap: Cody Rhodes chooses Roman Reigns before getting slapped by The Rock
Thursday's press conference leading up to WrestleMania 40 added a layer of confusion to the main event.
His return at WrestleMania 38 marked the beginning of his quest to achieve that dream.
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15:50 - 20.03.2024
WWE Revealed: The Top 20 Richest Wrestlers in the world in 2024
Pulse Sports reveals the Top 10 richest professionals in the Wrestling industry as per net worth in 2024.
The Epic Showdown WrestleMania 40 Showdown: Battling Against the Odds
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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
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Other Results from WrestleMania 40
World Heavyweight Championship
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The night saw Drew McIntyre's reign as champion tested, first defeating Seth Rollins before ultimately losing to the emerging Damian Priest.
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WWE Women's Championship
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Bayley emerged victorious, dethroning the formidable Iyo Sky and cementing her place atop the women's division.
United States Championship
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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
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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
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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.
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