Bloodline incoming, LA Knight & more - 5 challengers for Cody Rhodes' Undisputed WWE Championship on SmackDown

According to the WWE Draft 2024 rules, Cody Rhodes is now officially a part of SmackDown as the Undisputed WWE Champion. During the latest episode of Friday Night SmackDown, The American Nightmare has already competed in his first match as a member of the blue brand, defeating Carmelo Hayes in a singles bout.

Currently, Cody is slated to defend his Undisputed WWE Championship against AJ Styles at Backlash France. This marks Rhodes' first title defense of his championship reign, and many fans are confident that The American Nightmare will retain his title at the upcoming premium live event.

Meanwhile, the new roster will be locked in on May 6, 2024. In this article, we will explore five potential challengers for The American Nightmare's coveted title on Friday Night SmackDown.

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#5. The Bloodline might be coming for Cody Rhodes again

The rivalry between Cody Rhodes and The Bloodline is widely recognized. At WrestleMania XL, Rhodes defeated Roman Reigns to claim the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.

Since Rhodes and The Bloodline are both on the blue brand, members of the Samoan faction may target The American Nightmare once again. However, with Roman Reigns seemingly not associated with the group anymore, either Solo Sikoa or Tama Tonga could emerge as potential challengers.

Currently, Tama Tonga's presence on the blue brand is impressive. This indicates that he has a strong chance of being a challenger for Cody's Undisputed WWE Championship.

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#4. Andrade might try to make his presence felt

In the fourth round of Night One of the 2024 WWE Draft, Andrade was drafted to SmackDown. For those unaware, since his return at the 2024 Men's Royal Rumble Match, the former United States Champion has been on a winning streak on Monday Night RAW.

Since the 34-year-old star has moved to the blue brand now, Andrade may likely set his sights on earning a shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship. Additionally, his winning streak on the red brand gives him significant momentum, making him a strong contender for Cody Rhodes' title.

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#3. The Lone Wolf could eye for the Undisputed WWE Championship

After the conclusion of Night One of the 2024 WWE Draft, the Stamford-based company announced some additional draft picks on its social media handles, including Baron Corbin's move to SmackDown. The Lone Wolf is now officially a part of the blue brand, adding another potential challenger for Cody Rhodes' Undisputed WWE Championship.

A few months ago, Corbin was shifted to NXT, where he briefly held the NXT Tag Team Championship with Bron Breakker, who is now drafted to RAW. So, with his return to the main roster as a singles star, a world title shot could be the best way to reintroduce him on SmackDown.

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#2. Carmelo Hayes could seek redemption for his loss against Cody Rhodes

The main event match between Carmelo Hayes and Cody Rhodes on SmackDown was filled with near falls, but it ultimately concluded with The American Nightmare emerging as the victor. However, Melo might look to get another match against Cody, this time to contend for the Undisputed WWE Championship.

The potential scenario that might unfold could see the former NXT Champion winning a number-one contender's match. This would lead to Melo earning a shot for the Undisputed WWE Championship against Cody Rhodes, providing him with an opportunity to seek redemption following his loss to The American Nightmare on the latest episode of SmackDown.

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#1. LA Knight could be a perfect challenger for Cody Rhodes

Even after Night One of the 2024 WWE Draft, LA Knight remains a part of Friday Night SmackDown. However, with Cody Rhodes now also associated with the blue brand, The Megastar might try to earn a shot for the Undisputed WWE Championship. For those unaware, LA Knight also emerged victorious at WrestleMania XL, defeating AJ Styles.

So, it is possible that after Backlash France, The Megastar could confront Cody Rhodes and challenge him for the Undisputed WWE Championship.

Previously, Knight had competed against Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, but he failed to win due to interference from The Bloodline. Since Cody Rhodes is the top champion now, The Megastar might make another attempt to become a world champion in the Stamford-based promotion.