The former IWGP United States champion and group member alongside Jay White and Austin and Colton Gunn has been sidelined since last November, when he suffered a broken fibula during the Continental Classic tournament.

Following his WrestleMania 41 defeat against John Cena, where he lost the Undisputed WWE title, Cody Rhodes has been absent from WWE. Upon his return, Rhodes could pursue the World Heavyweight Championship,

On April 20, 2025, Rhodes' first reign with the Undisputed WWE Championship ended. He held it for 378 days after beating Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40 for it. The loss was thanks in large part to rapper Travis Scott, who interfered in the match. He helped Cena win by distracting Rhodes. It furthered the growing feud between Rhodes and Scott.