4 WWE Superstars who could emerge as the next challenger to Cody Rhodes on SmackDown

Cody Rhodes is in his second reign as the Undisputed WWE Champion. While The American Nightmare is in a feud with Drew McIntyre on SmackDown, he will face NXT Champion Oba Femi in an exhibition match at Saturday Night’s Main Event XLII.

However, McIntyre is still suspended from SmackDown. Despite Rhodes’ best efforts last week, Nick Aldis refused to reinstate The Scottish Warrior. That said, if the Scotsman is absent, this week’s episode of the blue brand show could see a new challenger to challenge the WWE Undisputed Champion.

In this list, we’ll look at four WWE Superstars who could emerge as Cody Rhodes’ next challenger on SmackDown:

#4. Sami Zayn is a man on a mission

Sami Zayn has been on a quest to win his first world title in WWE. The Canadian star had a brief backstage confrontation with Cody Rhodes a while back, sparking a potential show between them.

The Underdog from the Underground could step up to challenge The American Nightmare for the title on Friday.

#3. Jacob Fatu could continue his quest for gold

Jacob Fatu he was last seen on the October 17 episode of SmackDown, where he was mysteriously attacked backstage before his match against Drew McIntyre. The Samoan werewolf was reportedly turned away from TV due to a real-life injury.

Before stopping, Fatu had his sights set on the undisputed WWE Championship. The Samoan star could return to SmackDown and continue his quest for gold by facing The American Nightmare.

#2. Bronson Reed

The Vision has been on a dominating run lately. After picking up victory for his team in the men’s WarGames match, Bron Breakker will challenge CM Punk for the World Heavyweight Championship on the January 5, 2026 episode of Monday Night RAW.

As Breaker chases the world heavyweight title, Bronson Reed could target WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes on SmackDown so The Vision could secure both world titles. Rhodes and Reed faced off for the title before Survivor Series: WarGames, but the bout ended in a disqualification.

The Aus-zilla could demand a rematch against The QB1 on this week’s episode of the Friday night show.

#1. Randy Orton could finally challenge Cody Rhodes

Randy Orton he has been away from television for more than two months. He was last seen on the October 3 episode of SmackDown, where he teamed with Rhodes in a losing effort against The Brons. The creative team led by Triple H has been hinting at a rivalry between Orton and Rhodes for some time, but it has yet to come to fruition.

The Viper could return to action on this week’s SmackDown and finally begin his long-awaited feud with Cody Rhodes for the WWE Undisputed Championship.