Cody Rhodes Retains WWE Championship in Brutal Royal Rumble Ladder Match

Rhodes defeated Kevin Owens in a high-stakes match, solidifying his path to WrestleMania 41 while tensions with Sami Zayn linger.

Cody Rhodes defeated Kevin Owens in a physically intense ladder match at the 2025 Royal Rumble, retaining the Undisputed WWE Championship.
The match featured dangerous spots, including an Alabama Slam that sent Owens through a ladder, marking Rhodes' third title defense against Owens.
The rivalry between Rhodes and Owens stems from events following WWE Bad Blood 2024, including Owens' off-camera heel turn and attacks on Rhodes and Randy Orton.
Sami Zayn, a key figure in the storyline, remained neutral during the match, fueling speculation about his role in the upcoming WrestleMania season.
Reports suggest Rhodes is likely heading toward a WrestleMania 41 showdown with John Cena, where Cena could pursue a record-breaking 17th world title.