EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - AUGUST 03: Cody Rhodes celebrates after defeating John Cena to become the WWE Undisputed Champion during the WWE 2025 SummerSlam at MetLife Stadium on August 03, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Cody Rhodes was left in a pool of his own blood during a WWE match against Randy Orton.
Rhodes and Orton were wrestling in the Men’s Elimination Chamber. The two were wrestling for a chance to win the WWE championship at WrestleMania 42. Orton defeated Rhodes with an RKO.
During the match, Rhodes received several cuts across his face and chest. This led to him bleeding profusely.
Previously, under the leadership of Vince McMahon, WWE had a “no-blood” policy that would prevent blood from being shown on screen. However, this has been relaxed in recent years. Although this gives the illusion of the matches being more realistic, it’s also gross to look at. Many fans on social media couldn’t believe what they were seeing.
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During the Women’s Elimination Chamber, Kiana James suffered a wardrobe malfunction after her bra slipped down after being knocked down. The camera didn’t pan away or black out during the malfunction. It seems WWE wants to show more unfiltered action.
Rhodes has been one of the biggest victims of the “permissible blood” policy. John Cena, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and now Orton have all caused Rhodes to bleed on camera.
However, being RKOed by Orton probably hurt the most, both physically and mentally. Rhodes credits Orton’s teachings for the success in his wrestling career. Rhodes worked closely with Orton during Rhodes’ debut in 2008. The two have remained close since, but there was no love in the ring.
Rhodes is currently the defending champion of the WWE. However, that could change during WrestleMania 42.
WrestleMania 42 will take place on April 18 and 19 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. The headliner match will be defending heavyweight champion CM Punk wrestling against Roman Reigns. Rhodes will look to defend his Undisputed WWE Championship against Orton.
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