Cody Rhodes kicked off WWE RAW on June 6, just one day removed from his unforgettable performance at WWE Hell in a Cell.
At the premium live event, “The American Nightmare” fought through a torn pectoral tendon to defeat Seth “Freakin” Rollins in a Hell in a Cell Match. Rhodes will reportedly undergo surgery due to the injury this week.
He came to the ring on Monday night holding his chest, as it was clear that he was far less than 100%. The fans chanted, “Thank you Cody” to express their appreciation for him. He stated that it is a privilege to do what he does. Rhodes noted that this setback is demoralizing, but he doesn’t want to be downtrodden. Instead, he brought up his daughter and made it clear that he wanted her to know that, at Hell in a Cell, he stood and fought through what could have been the lowest point of his career. He then declared that he’s officially done with Rollins, and he wants to talk about what’s above him.
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Rhodes looked up, and the Money in the Bank briefcases were hanging above him. He said that the contract inside the case has escaped him his entire career, and while he’s banged up right now, he wants to climb the ladder, unhook the case, and earn the contract. Rollins interrupted and said he still doesn’t like Rhodes, but after what “The American Nightmare” put himself through, he has earned his respect. He called it one of the gutsiest performances in the history of this industry and told Rhodes he was the toughest person he has ever been in the ring with. He then stated that Dusty is very proud of his “baby boy” right now.
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Rollins noted that he came out to show his respect for Rhodes, and he offered him a handshake. He then left, and when Rhodes slowly made his way to the back, Rollins attacked him from behind with a sledgehammer. He then stomped on Rhodes’ arm to exacerbate his injured pectoral. Rollins continued the attack by pressing the sledgehammer into his chest.
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After a commercials, officials checked on Rhodes, and he got back to his feet before he collapsed. Officials helped Rhodes up, and he walked away on his own two feet.
On commentary, Corey Graves confirmed that Rhodes will have surgery on June 8.
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