The brewing rivalry between WWE’s Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes and World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins has caught the attention of wrestling insiders and former stars alike. Nic Nemeth, widely known for his impactful Tenure in TNA and WWE as Dolph Ziggler, recently shared his insights into what makes this feud one of the most compelling storylines currently in WWE, stressing why Seth Rollins needs to overcome Cody Rhodes at the upcoming Crown Jewel event.
A Rivalry Built on History and High Stakes
Nemeth highlighted that the Cody-Seth rivalry is far more than just a title conflict; it stems from deep personal and professional tensions forged over years. Both men have storied careers filled with championship glory, shared alliances, and betrayals, creating a layered narrative that captivates fans.
“The history between Cody and Seth adds an intense weight to this feud,” Nemeth explained in a recent interview. “They’ve been everything from friends and allies to bitter rivals, so every match feels like something much bigger than just winning a belt”[6].
Indeed, footage from recent WWE Raws showcased how their tumultuous past plays into their confrontations, with each man bringing physicality and emotional intensity to their matches, making it clear that neither rivalry nor pride will be easily conceded[1][4].
Why Seth Rollins Must Win at Crown Jewel
According to Nemeth, Seth Rollins’ victory at Crown Jewel is crucial—not only for storyline progression but for reinforcing his position within WWE’s landscape. He believes that Rollins embodies a fighting spirit and resilience that resonate deeply with the WWE Universe.
“Seth has to come out on top because it keeps alive that narrative of the relentless competitor,” Nemeth said. “He represents a counterbalance to the legacy Cody carries and the expectations that come with it. It’s kind of a passing of the torch moment or a reinforcement of Rollins’ own legacy”[6].
Backstage sources confirm that WWE officials see this match as a pivotal chapter. “There’s unanimous agreement that Seth winning would shake up the status quo and build anticipation for future pay-per-views,” a WWE insider revealed. “It’s about story structure, progression, and creating a landscape where Seth can go into WrestleMania as a top-tier face”[6].
The High-Caliber Athleticism and Storytelling
Both Rhodes and Rollins are praised for their phenomenal in-ring skills combined with storytelling that goes beyond moves and finishing maneuvers. Their matchups are characterized by a fluency of emotion and psychology uncommon in many contemporary feuds.
Nemeth emphasized that this dynamic requires a certain mastery of performance: “These two can tell a story with physicality alone, but their promos and character work add a vital dimension. That’s why every time they face off, it feels like a high-stakes drama”[6].
This artistry has been showcased in recent WWE broadcasts, where commentators often note the respect and animosity visible between the two—an interplay that enriches match narratives and fan engagement[3][4].
The Impact on WWE’s Landscape
Cody Rhodes’ return and championship run have undeniably shaken WWE, bringing fresh energy to main event scenes. Simultaneously, Seth Rollins’ consistent excellence ensures he remains a cornerstone of WWE programming. Nemeth points out that their rivalry symbolizes a clash of eras and philosophies within the company.
“While Cody brings legacy and redemption stories tied to his family name, Seth projects innovation, grit, and the heart of a fighting champion focused on proving himself every night,” Nemeth noted. “Their rivalry is perfect for this moment in WWE, where storytelling and athleticism must coexist to keep fans invested”[6].
WWE’s Crown Jewel pay-per-view thus becomes a nexus for these multiple narrative threads to converge, promising high drama and compelling outcomes that will ripple across WWE programming.
Looking Ahead: What Crown Jewel Could Mean for Both
As Crown Jewel approaches, expectations soar for a match that could redefine both men’s careers. The stakes are unmistakably high, with titles on the line and legacies hanging in the balance.
Sources close to Cody Rhodes suggest he is determined to prove his dominance by defeating a longtime rival who once helped him overcome monumental challenges like Roman Reigns’ Bloodline. “Cody sees this as more than a match; it’s a statement about where he fits in WWE history,” an insider said[1].
For Seth Rollins, the match represents a chance at reaffirming his elite status after setbacks and controversies. Winning would validate his resilience and capacity to overcome adversity, signaling his readiness to head toward the biggest stages once more.
Final Thoughts: A Rivalry Worth Watching
Nic Nemeth’s breakdown brings a veteran perspective to one of WWE’s hottest rivalries. His insistence on the importance of Seth Rollins’ victory highlights the storytelling depth and competitive spirit that define this feud.
Fans and analysts alike should expect Crown Jewel to deliver not just a wrestling match but a powerful narrative chapter that reflects the evolution of two of WWE’s most dynamic performers.
As WWE continues to invest in complex, character-driven rivalries, the clash between Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins stands out as a showcase of what modern professional wrestling can achieve—intensity, athleticism, and storytelling in seamless harmony.
“They’re writing a story here that will be talked about for years,” Nemeth concluded. “And Seth beating Cody at Crown Jewel is the key to unlocking the next level of that journey.”[6]