Since then, he has successfully defended the title eight times on WWE TV and premium live events.

Let’s take a look at his best matches from that time period.

As a result, a number of his title defenses on premium live events tend to be forgettable.

Cena Orton Backlash (1)

But his first title defense against AJ Styles atBacklashwill likely live on in WWE history forever.

for Styles so loudly that it caused the cameras in the arena to shake.

3Cody Rhodes vs. Solo Sikoa (Steel Cage Match) -WWE SmackDown

Rhodes Vs.

R-Truth and John Cena holding his championship

But most of his singles matches with both Rhodes and Reigns left something to be desired.

Long-term storytelling can be fun, even when it’s not always intentional.

Meanwhile,Rhodes was allowed to show off a much more ruthless sideas he brutalized Owens throughout the match.

Cody Rhodes celebrates winning the WWE Championship with pyro at WrestleMania 40

Cody Rhodes celebrates after defeating Kevin Owens in a Ladder Match at the 2025 Royal Rumble event.