Cody Rhodes Becomes 4th Back-to-Back WWE Royal Rumble Winner
Cody Rhodes emerged victorious in the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble, earning the opportunity to challenge for a World title at WrestleMania 40.
Cody Rhodes entered the Royal Rumble in the 15th spot and lasted well over half an hour in the match while engaging in fights with Gunther, Shinsuke Nakamura, CM Punk and others.
As the Rumble reached its climax, the final four participants included CM Punk, Gunther, Drew McIntyre, and Cody Rhodes. Rhodes eliminated Gunther when he tried to counter a Crossrhodes, while Punk threw out McIntyre.
DO THE WORK.
— WWE (@WWE) January 28, 2024
FINISH THE STORY.@CodyRhodes just won the Men's #RoyalRumble Match for the second year in a row! The American Nightmare has his sights set on @WWERomanReigns as the Road to #WrestleMania is underway! pic.twitter.com/RkHT2oAsLT
In the intense final segment, Rhodes and Punk engaged in a fierce battle for about 5 minutes. Cody hit a Crossrhodes but was unable to throw out Punk. Punk also hit GTS but Cody survived an elimination attempt. Rhodes ultimately blocked Punk’s second GTS and eliminated him to secure the win.
This match also held significance as it marked CM Punk’s first television match since his return at Survivor Series 2023 PLE.
Cody Rhodes has become only the fourth wrestler to win back to back Royal Rumble matches after Stone Cold Steve Austin did so in 1997 and 1998. He has also become the tenth wrestler to win more than one Royal Rumble matches. Check here for the complete list of Royal Rumble winners.
After his win, Cody Rhodes pointed towards Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns, who was watching from skybox, to signal that he will challenge Roman for the title at WrestleMania 40 and try to “finish his story”.
WrestleMania 39 witnessed Rhodes falling short in his attempt to dethrone Reigns, creating anticipation for a potential storyline conclusion at WrestleMania 40.
2️⃣ YEARS IN A ROW!
— WWE (@WWE) January 28, 2024
RHODES TO WRESTLEMANIA!!! pic.twitter.com/YYwGa6MT11