Why Bully Ray Believes Cody Rhodes’ Crown Jewel Victory Was The Right Business Decision

One Big Thing

Cody Rhodes made history at WWE Crown Jewel, becoming the first-ever WWE Men’s Crown Jewel Champion by defeating GUNTHER in a grueling 23-minute match that ended with Rhodes reversing a rear naked choke into a winning pin.

Why It Matters

The victory reinforces Rhodes’ position as WWE’s top babyface and aligns with WWE’s corporate strategy for their Saudi Arabia events, according to WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray.

By The Numbers

• 23-minute match duration
• First-ever WWE Men’s Crown Jewel Championship match
• Two world champions colliding (Undisputed WWE Champion vs. WWE World Heavyweight Champion)

What They’re Saying

“Cody going over, is it the right decision? It’s the right decision for the big corporate company with their big money, corporate relationship with the Crown Jewel event,” Bully Ray explained on Busted Open Radio.

Behind The Scenes

The match was notable for its clean finish, with Bully Ray specifically praising WWE for avoiding any controversial endings or outside interference.

What’s Next

Rhodes is expected to pivot toward a program with Kevin Owens, following Owens’ attack at Bad Blood. Industry insiders suggest their confrontation could take place at the upcoming Saturday Night’s Main Event special.

Between The Lines

The decision to have Rhodes win reflects WWE’s commitment to building strong babyface champions for their major international events, though Bully Ray noted this strategy differs in the women’s division, where Liv Morgan’s victory served a different narrative purpose.

What do you think about WWE’s decision to have Cody Rhodes win at Crown Jewel? Was it the right call for business, or should GUNTHER have maintained his momentum? Share your thoughts in the comments below!