Why WWE keeps having Cody Rhodes beat Gunther

Why WWE keeps having Cody Rhodes beat Gunther

Cody Rhodes and Gunther have been presented as two of WWE's most important stars, yet whenever the company reaches a major crossroads, Cody often ends up standing taller.

That pattern has sparked questions among fans about why WWE repeatedly chooses the American Nightmare over one of its most dominant modern champions.

The answer appears to be less about Gunther's shortcomings and more about Cody's unique position within WWE's broader business and creative plans.

Since finishing his championship reign, Cody Rhodes has remained one of WWE's most recognizable faces. He appeals to casual viewers, sells merchandise, generates media attention, and fits the role of a traditional heroic lead character.

When WWE wants a match outcome that reinforces stability at the top of the card, Cody is frequently the preferred choice.

Gunther, meanwhile, occupies a different role. His value comes from credibility, intensity, and the perception that beating him means something. That allows WWE to use him as an elite measuring stick without necessarily damaging his standing after a loss.

The victories are about Cody's position, not Gunther's weakness

Looking at WWE's booking strategy, Cody Rhodes' wins over Gunther help establish a clear hierarchy for audiences. WWE often prefers having one central babyface who can anchor major events, headline promotional campaigns, and serve as a reliable face of the brand.

That role currently belongs to Cody.

The interesting part is that Gunther rarely loses enough to feel diminished. Instead, his defeats are usually framed as hard-fought battles against top-level opponents. That distinction matters because it preserves his credibility for future championship pursuits.

From a storytelling perspective, WWE also benefits from keeping Gunther hungry. A dominant champion can eventually run out of fresh challenges. A motivated contender seeking redemption often creates more long-term possibilities.

The bigger takeaway is that Cody Rhodes' victories are less about one rivalry and more about WWE's long-range creative direction.

The company appears committed to maintaining him as a cornerstone attraction while still protecting Gunther as a future main-event force.

If that approach continues, future encounters between the two stars could become even more significant.

Every Cody victory raises expectations for the moment when Gunther finally gets a chance to reverse the outcome, creating a storyline that may carry major value for WWE's championship picture in the months ahead.