Real Reason Cody Rhodes Missed AEW Battle Of The Belts
An update from the TNT Champion on his AEW Battle of the Belts absence.
Cody Rhodes missed last night's AEW Battle of the Belts show as he and wife Brandi are currently isolating with family members who have tested positive for COVID-19.
The reigning TNT Champion has revealed as much via his Instagram story, having posted the following on Saturday:-
I appreciate everybody reaching out. Brandi and I are in isolation with family that have unfortunately tested positive for COVID. It’s been a scary time dealing with such a strong virus and the complications that can come with it. We are doing all we can to nurse and protect the family during this time. I will remain in quarantine as long as needed. Every day is more encouraging. Thank you immensely for your support and respect of our privacy. Thank you to AEW for understanding and allowing me to be where I am needed today, and for still allowing the TNT Title to be represented. I look forward to being back soon. All the love in the world!
Rhodes was originally scheduled to defend the TNT Championship against Sammy Guevara on the show. It was announced on the previous night's episode of Rampage that due to a medical issue, this wouldn't go ahead, with Cody's brother Dustin and Guevara contesting an interim title fight instead. In Cody's absence, Guevara pinned Dustin.
This all followed Cody defeating Sammy to become a three-time TNT Champion on AEW Rampage's 25 December episode.
There is currently no word on how AEW plans to resolve the issue of technically having two TNT Champions, though Guevara has challenged Daniel Garcia to a title match following a Battle of the Belts brawl.