Update on WWE Star Cody Rhodes’ Schedule Amid Wrestlepalooza and Street Fighter Filming
WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes has been absent from the ring, sparking speculation about his return as fans eagerly await his next move. With the inaugural Wrestlepalooza Premium Live Event (PLE) set for September 20, 2025, and his ongoing commitment to filming the Street Fighter movie in Australia, Rhodes’ schedule is a hot topic. Recent reports clarify his plans, shedding light on how he’s balancing Hollywood and wrestling while navigating a heated rivalry with Drew McIntyre. Here’s the latest on Rhodes’ status, the key details, and what’s next for “The American Nightmare.”
Trending: WWE’s Hollywood Crossovers Fuel Fan Buzz
Cody Rhodes’ role as Guile in the upcoming Street Fighter film, alongside Roman Reigns as Akuma, has wrestling fans and movie buffs abuzz on platforms like X, where posts with hashtags like #CodyRhodes and #StreetFighterMovie are trending. This high-profile crossover highlights WWE’s growing influence in entertainment, but it’s also raised questions about Rhodes’ availability for major events like Wrestlepalooza, WWE’s first PLE to stream on ESPN.
Key Details of Rhodes’ Schedule
According to a September 8, 2025, report from the Wrestling
Observer Newsletter, confirmed by Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, Cody Rhodes is scheduled to face Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship at Wrestlepalooza on September 20, 2025, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. This decision ends earlier uncertainty about Rhodes’ participation, which stemmed from his filming commitments for Street Fighter. The report indicates that Rhodes will complete his role as Guile by September 20, aligning with the PLE date.
Rhodes has been absent from WWE television since August 8, 2025, when McIntyre brutally attacked him on SmackDown, delivering a Claymore Kick through the announcer’s desk to write him off for filming. Initial plans had Rhodes facing McIntyre at Wrestlepalooza, but WWE prepared a backup feud between McIntyre and Randy Orton in case Rhodes’ filming ran over. With Orton vs. McIntyre now set for the September 12 SmackDown, WWE has confirmed Rhodes’ return for the PLE, ensuring the championship match proceeds as planned.
Voices from the Wrestling World
Dave Meltzer noted, “Cody Rhodes is scheduled now for Wrestlepalooza against Drew McIntyre for the championship. The Orton match was gonna take place first, but they didn’t know if they would do it on the pay-per-view. I presume it was because they didn’t know for a fact that he would be done filming by the 20th.” This reflects WWE’s strategic planning to accommodate Rhodes’ dual commitments.
On X, fans have voiced excitement, with posts like, “Cody Rhodes as Guile AND defending the title at Wrestlepalooza? Hollywood Rhodes is unstoppable!” (@Jwrasslintakes). Others speculate about potential surprises, suggesting Rhodes could return on the September 12 or 19 SmackDown to confront McIntyre.
Background: Rhodes’ Rise and Hollywood Venture
Cody Rhodes, a two-time WWE Champion and 2025 King of the Ring, has solidified his status as one of WWE’s top stars since returning in 2022. His current reign began at SummerSlam 2025, where he defeated John Cena in a Street Fight to reclaim the Undisputed WWE Championship. The McIntyre feud intensified after the August 8 attack, setting up a high-stakes title defense at Wrestlepalooza, which will compete head-to-head with AEW’s All Out.
Rhodes’ Street Fighter role as Guile, a character iconic for his flat-top haircut and military persona, marks a significant step in his acting career. The film, set for release on October 16, 2026, also features Roman Reigns as Akuma and NJPW’s Hirooki Goto as E. Honda. Reports confirm Rhodes began filming in Australia in late August, with his schedule wrapping just in time for Wrestlepalooza.
Impact and Next Steps
Rhodes’ confirmed return for Wrestlepalooza ensures a blockbuster main event, pitting him against McIntyre in a feud fueled by personal animosity. The match is one of two marquee bouts, alongside John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar, making Wrestlepalooza a pivotal event in WWE’s new ESPN era. A successful title defense could solidify Rhodes as the face of the company, while a loss to McIntyre might shift WWE’s creative direction heading into 2026.
Fans should watch the September 12 SmackDown for potential Rhodes appearances, as he’s advertised for the October 3 episode, suggesting a buildup to the PLE. His Hollywood commitments may limit his TV presence, but a pre-taped promo or surprise return could escalate the McIntyre rivalry. If filming delays arise, WWE’s contingency plan with Orton ensures flexibility.
On the Street Fighter front, Rhodes’ role could elevate his mainstream profile, following in the footsteps of WWE stars like John Cena and Dwayne Johnson. However, balancing wrestling and acting will test his stamina, especially with personal milestones like the recent birth of his second daughter, Leilani Ella, on August 30, 2025.
Conclusion: Rhodes’ Return Sets the Stage
Cody Rhodes’ confirmed return for Wrestlepalooza on September 20, 2025, dispels doubts about his availability, promising a thrilling title defense against Drew McIntyre. As he juggles his Street Fighter role and WWE obligations, Rhodes exemplifies the modern wrestler’s crossover appeal. For fans, the takeaway is simple: expect fireworks at Wrestlepalooza, and keep an eye on SmackDown for Rhodes’ next move. Whether in the ring or on the big screen, “The American Nightmare” is poised to shine.