Cody Rhodes Wins 2025 King of the Ring After Brutal Battle with Randy Orton

Cody Rhodes has officially ascended to wrestling royalty. At WWE Night of Champions, he defeated Randy Orton in a grueling, emotionally charged final to be crowned the 2025 King of the Ring—marking a career-defining moment for the “American Nightmare” and potentially setting the stage for a SummerSlam main event against either CM Punk or John Cena.

The match, which opened the pay-per-view event, was far from ceremonial. It was violent, personal, and strategic, underscoring just how far Rhodes has come since returning to WWE in 2022. Facing off against Orton—a man he once called both mentor and brother during their time in the Legacy stable—Rhodes took a far more aggressive approach than fans have come to expect.

He targeted Orton’s surgically repaired lower back throughout the match with ruthless precision. Using everything from stretch holds around the ringpost to repeated, targeted kicks, Rhodes methodically wore down the veteran superstar. It was a physical departure from the emotionally driven matches that have previously defined Rhodes’ WWE run. Here, he was not the sentimental fan favorite. He was the predator.

But Orton didn’t go quietly. Despite being visibly hobbled by the back injury, the 14-time world champion dug deep into his arsenal, delivering two RKOs that nearly ended the contest. At one point, he even teased a Punt Kick—a move once synonymous with his most dangerous persona. The hesitation, though, cost him. Rhodes dodged the kick and regained control of the match.

Desperation drove Orton to slide out of the ring and retrieve a steel chair, but the referee quickly intervened. As the official removed the weapon, Orton shifted tactics and ripped off the top turnbuckle pad, attempting to drive Rhodes into the exposed steel. Once again, Rhodes anticipated the move and reversed it—slamming Orton face-first into the bare buckle.

That reversal spelled the beginning of the end. Rhodes capitalized with a Cross Rhodes in the center of the ring, securing the three-count and a monumental victory that crowned him the 2025 King of the Ring.

The crowd roared as Rhodes was presented with the symbolic crown, but the post-match moment was just as compelling. In a heartfelt promo, he acknowledged the significance of the win and the history he shared with Orton. Despite their violent confrontation, he expressed gratitude for the mentorship Orton once offered and saluted Jey Uso, his semifinal opponent and close friend.

As Rhodes stood tall in the ring, Orton lingered on the entrance ramp, his eyes locked on the new King of the Ring. It was a stare that suggested unfinished business, though Orton ultimately turned away and disappeared into the backstage area—leaving Rhodes to soak in the spotlight alone.

But Rhodes was far from finished.

With the crowd still buzzing, he made it clear that his royal ascension was just the beginning. He declared his intention to challenge for the Undisputed WWE Championship at SummerSlam, setting his sights on the winner of the night’s main event: a blockbuster clash between CM Punk and reigning champion John Cena.

Though Rhodes didn’t name a preference, his mention of both names—each carrying iconic legacies and complex histories with Rhodes—has already ignited speculation. A potential showdown with Cena would be a headline-grabbing generational battle. A match with Punk, on the other hand, would offer a combustible clash of ideologies, mic skills, and momentum.

From a business standpoint, Rhodes’ coronation as King of the Ring couldn’t come at a better time. As WWE continues to expand its global presence, invest in premium live events, and evolve its storytelling, Rhodes embodies a rare mix of legacy and modern star power. He’s the son of wrestling legend Dusty Rhodes, yet he has carved out a singular identity—one built on grit, narrative depth, and a hunger for redemption that has resonated with fans across generations.

For Orton, the match was a return to high-profile singles competition after years of intermittent injuries and tag team runs. Despite the loss, his performance underscored that he’s still capable of delivering main-event caliber matches. Whether this signals another championship pursuit or a possible rivalry rekindling with Rhodes remains to be seen.

Meanwhile, Rhodes’ King of the Ring victory sets the tone for WWE’s summer slate, building anticipation for one of the most significant SummerSlam events in recent memory. With Rhodes’ declaration made, the only remaining question is who he’ll face—and whether his royal momentum will be enough to finally claim the company’s top prize.

No matter the outcome, one thing is undeniable: Cody Rhodes has never been closer to the throne he’s chased for years. And now, with a crown on his head and the WWE Universe firmly behind him, the American Nightmare is no longer just a contender. He’s the King.