SUMMARY
- Cody Rhodes and AJ Styles have never faced each other in their respective illustrious careers.
- However, if fans get their way, it may soon change at "Backlash" as Cody Rhodes is in search for his first opponent after WrestleMania 40.
AJ Styles will hope to inch closer to the WWE Undisputed title when he collides with LA Knight on the upcoming episode of WWE SmackDown on April 19, 2024. From a storyline perspective, a strong heel like Styles would make more sense as Cody Rhodes’ first opponent than another babyface like LA Knight.
The Phenomenal One’s career achievements mirror those of The American Nightmare in many ways. Before becoming main-event players in the Stamford promotion, both superstars made a name for themselves in non-WWE promotions like NJPW, TNA, ROH, and NWA. Surprisingly, despite being in the business together for about 16 years, the two superstars have never crossed paths in a singles encounter.
Fun fact: AJ Styles has faced Dusty Rhodes…but never had a one-on-one with Cody Rhodes.
Think we get it at Backlash? pic.twitter.com/GXaKpxRdPg
— A Kenny For Your Thoughts (@_kennythoughts) April 14, 2024
What is even more surprising is that despite not facing Cody Rhodes even once, AJ Styles has shared the ring with his father, Dusty Rhodes.
AJ Styles fought Dusty Rhodes in a generational NWA World Title clash
At the TNA Weekly PPV #65 in 2003, The Phenomenal One found himself across the ring with The American Dream, Dusty Rhodes. On paper, a speedy high-flyer in Styles seemed like an insurmountable threat for a 57-year-old Rhodes, who was clearly past his prime.
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Styles ultimately fought back by bludgeoning the old legend with repeated strikes to his face. Following the bloodshed in the audience area, the two men found their way back into the ring, where Styles continued with his assault. Never afraid of the “Hard Times,” Dusty shrugged off the damage caused by taking down Mr.TNA again.
AJ Styles (c) vs Dusty Rhodes
TNA Weekly PPV #65NWA World Heavyweight Championship pic.twitter.com/GEgf8o3Cat
— Vick (@Vick_8122) April 14, 2024
The crowd’s support immensely helped The Midnight Rider hang with a technically superior opponent. However, just as Rhodes looked to finish off AJ with a Figure Four Leg Lock, the NWA Champion threw the referee out of the ring.
Styles then proceeded to apply a Figure Four of his own, hoping to earn a submission victory. However, Dusty chose to pass out instead of tapping to his heel opponent. Ultimately, The Phenomenal One earned a pinfall victory over the NWA legend, adding another remarkable achievement to his early career.
What can we expect from Cody Rhodes vs. AJ Styles at WWE Backlash?
Following his legendary title victory at WrestleMania, Cody Rhodes now awaits his first opponent. If fans get what they want, The American Nightmare would have his first title defense in France at WWE Backlash against AJ Styles.