5 WWE Superstars who could interrupt Cody Rhodes’ interview on SmackDown

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An interruption could also establish a new contender through nothing more than a confrontation, stare-down, or pointed promo. With Money in the Bank approaching and the Undisputed WWE Championship scene already crowded, almost any interruption could have major consequences for the weeks ahead in WWE.

Here are five WWE Superstars who could interrupt Cody Rhodes’ interview on SmackDown.

#5. Randy Orton

Randy Orton is the most obvious name to interrupt Cody Rhodes, considering he is the man responsible for Cody’s latest defeat.

The Viper overcame his former Legacy teammate at Sunday Night’s Main Event, and he subsequently declared that his goal is to become Undisputed WWE Champion. The company also advertised Orton’s championship ambitions following his victory.

Therefore, Rhodes’ interview could quickly become another chapter in their rivalry. Orton could interrupt to remind Cody that their story is far from finished, especially if he believes The American Nightmare is still standing between him and the Undisputed WWE Championship.

A tense confrontation would also allow WWE to keep Orton firmly positioned in the title picture.

#4. CM Punk

CM Punk has another reason to confront Cody Rhodes: he has just lost the Undisputed WWE Championship.

Punk’s title reign ended when Sami Zayn defeated him on SmackDown in a chaotic championship match. Kevin Owens’ involvement accidentally contributed to Punk losing the title, leaving The Best in the World with plenty of unresolved business.

If CM Punk interrupts Cody, WWE could immediately establish that Punk is moving on from Sami and looking toward another major opponent. Rhodes would be a natural target, particularly because both men have occupied the upper echelon of the blue brand for much of 2026.

A heated verbal exchange could create a compelling collision without requiring either man to immediately enter a title feud.

#3. Sami Zayn

Sami Zayn could interrupt Cody Rhodes after successfully reclaiming the Undisputed WWE Championship.

Zayn defeated CM Punk last week to win the title, doing so amid chaos involving Kevin Owens, Johnny Gargano, and Candice LeRae. WWE has confirmed that Sami will be on this week’s SmackDown, meaning he could cross paths with Cody during the American Nightmare’s interview.

Sami could interrupt simply to establish himself as the new champion and warn Cody that the title belongs to him now. Alternatively, Rhodes could congratulate him before Sami turns the conversation toward potential challengers.

With Punk, Owens, Orton, and several other stars pursuing the championship, Sami has plenty of reasons to make a statement.

#2. Drew McIntyre could return on SamckDown and confront Cody Rhodes

Drew McIntyre returning to SmackDown could instantly transform Cody Rhodes’ interview into a major moment.

McIntyre has extensive history with Rhodes. Earlier this year, The Scottish Warrior battled Cody for the Undisputed WWE Championship, including a brutal Three Stages of Hell Match. Cody eventually regained the championship from McIntyre, ensuring their rivalry remained one of the defining title programs of the first part of 2026.

A surprise return would give Drew McIntyre an immediate storyline because Cody Rhodes remains one of the biggest names on SmackDown. McIntyre could interrupt the interview, remind Rhodes of their history, and declare that he wants another opportunity.

Even without attacking Cody, Drew’s return would dramatically change the title picture.

#1. Kevin Owens

Kevin Owens could be the most intriguing person to interrupt Cody Rhodes’ interview.

Owens has become deeply entangled in the Undisputed WWE Championship scene. Last week, he attempted to stop Sami Zayn from using the championship against CM Punk but accidentally struck Punk with the title. Zayn then capitalized and captured the gold.

That mistake gives Owens a strong reason to appear on SmackDown and explain himself. However, his appearance could become much bigger if he turns his attention toward Cody.

Kevin Owens and Cody Rhodes have history as rivals and allies. Thus, a confrontation could immediately revive their personal tension. With Sami now champion and Owens already involved in the title picture, interrupting Rhodes could give WWE another route toward a major SmackDown storyline.

Cody’s interview is officially confirmed, but nothing guarantees that The American Nightmare will be allowed to finish his thoughts. With so many stars chasing championship opportunities, the microphone could quickly become the center of a new rivalry.

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