The WWE Universe is buzzing with electricity after a shocking teaser on SmackDown 2025 hinted at the imminent return of none other than Cody Rhodes — The American Nightmare. And this time, it looks like he’s coming back with one man in his crosshairs: John Cena.
In a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment during the final segment of SmackDown, WWE aired a mysterious glitch-style video filled with cryptic images — burning flags, broken thrones, and a shattered golden mask. But the final shot sent fans into a frenzy: a brief flash of the words “NIGHTMARE REBORN” alongside a silhouette unmistakably resembling Cody Rhodes’ iconic entrance pose.
And just below that? A faded image of John Cena’s dog tags resting on the ground.
The message was loud and clear: Cody Rhodes is coming back — and he wants Cena.
This jaw-dropping teaser comes after months of silence from Rhodes, who has been off WWE television following a brutal match at WrestleMania 40. After failing to finish the story against Roman Reigns and suffering a kayfabe injury, Rhodes disappeared from TV, leaving fans to wonder if he was taking a break or planning something big behind the scenes.
Now, it seems the wait is almost over — and he’s got unfinished business with another WWE legend.
Sources close to WWE creative have hinted that Cody’s return is set to kick off a massive rivalry with John Cena, possibly leading to a dream match at SummerSlam 2025. And while neither superstar has officially commented, Cena’s recent promos about “protecting the legacy of WWE from outsiders” are now being viewed in a completely new light.
Is Cena calling out Cody? Or is Cody calling Cena out?
Fans are speculating that this could be more than just a match — it’s a battle of eras. Cena, the face of WWE’s past and present, versus Rhodes, the man who left WWE to build his own legacy, only to return and try to claim the throne. It’s a classic story of pride, redemption, and unfinished legacies.
Social media has exploded with theories, memes, and hype. #CodyVsCena and #NightmareReturns trended worldwide within minutes of SmackDown going off the air. Some fans believe this could be Cody’s final push to cement his place at the top of WWE, while others are hoping this is Cena’s true farewell feud — and what better way to pass the torch than with a war against The American Nightmare?
Either way, one thing is clear: Cody Rhodes is not coming back quietly.
He’s coming back with a message, a purpose, and possibly… a vengeance.
With the next episode of SmackDown already being advertised as “The Return of the Nightmare,” all eyes are now locked on Friday night. Will Cody show up in person? Will Cena respond? Or will WWE keep fans guessing a little longer?
One thing’s for sure — the road to SummerSlam just got a whole lot more dangerous.
