Cody Rhodes defeats Randy Orton to win King of the Ring

In Saudi Arabia, Cody Rhodes achieved a significant victory over Randy Orton at WWE Night of Champions on May 27, 2025, earning the title of 2025 King of the Ring. The match showcased both superstars' wrestling skills, with Rhodes adopting a more aggressive and heelish approach. Despite the crowd initially supporting both competitors, Rhodes exploited Orton's back injury and used underhanded tactics, including an exposed turnbuckle, to secure his win. This victory sets up a potential championship rematch against John Cena at SummerSlam in August. Reactions to Rhodes' heel turn have sparked discussions about his evolving character and its impact on fans. The storyline surrounding Rhodes and Orton has been developing over time, especially after Rhodes lost the WWE title in a controversial manner to John Cena at WrestleMania 41. Their match at Night of Champions marked the first singles clash between the two since 2013, and with each competitor having a storied history, fans expected a thrilling encounter. Rhodes' win not only secured his place in WWE history but also reignited the rivalry with Cena, who now has a potential title match depending on the outcome of a separate match against CM Punk. Facing Cena, while turning heel, indicates a fresh direction for Rhodes and adds layers of intrigue to upcoming events. The unfolding narrative illustrates the intense competition within WWE, particularly as fan favorites, such as John Cena and CM Punk, draw significant crowd support. Rhodes’ heel tactics drew boos, surprising many who have cheered for him in the past, hinting at a dramatic character shift. This dynamic may lead to a complex scenario at SummerSlam, where Rhodes, possibly in a heel role, faces beloved characters that could bring out mixed reactions from the audience. The balance of crowd support between Rhodes, Cena, and Punk raises questions about WWE's booking strategies. Furthermore, the implications of this match could significantly influence WWE's landscape moving forward, particularly regarding Rhodes’ position as a leading figure in the heavyweight division. As fans anticipate SummerSlam, the stakes have never been higher for Cody Rhodes. His victory at Night of Champions has set the stage for what could be a career-defining match against either Cena or Punk, with wrestling fans keen to see how the changing dynamics will play out. The King of the Ring victory has propelled Rhodes to a potential title opportunity, ultimately leaving fans excited about what's next for one of wrestling's most compelling contemporary storylines.