WWE Backlash 2024: 10 Things That Must Happen
3. Cody Rhodes Retains
No-brainer, huh?
AJ Styles is one of those workers WWE can slot into matches like this with supreme confidence. The bosses know he'll deliver the goods, and his career-long credibility makes it easy for fans to get invested. 'AJ has been champ before, so what if...?' That sort of thing. It's why Styles is one of the best to ever do it.
However, Cody Rhodes literally just finished his story at 'Mania. He doesn't want to kick off another one. There's just no way Hunter takes the title from Cody during his first PLE title defence - Rhodes will be relied upon to carry the WWE brand for the rest of 2024 and into the new year. This 'American Nightmare' is a PR team's dream.
Of course, there will be a few meaty near falls along the way. AJ can always come close with a Styles Clash, or perhaps even hit his Phenomenal Forearm for a looooooong two count. The success of Cody's title run may depend on his ability to show weakness. That starts here.