Controversial Call at SummerSlam: Did Cody Rhodes Deserve a DQ Against Brock Lesnar?
WWE fans were on the edge of their seats this past Saturday night at Ford Field, Detroit. The long-awaited match between Cody Rhodes and Brock Lesnar culminated in an electrifying clash. Yet, amidst the flying fists and high-octane action, one pivotal moment raised eyebrows across the wrestling community: Rhodes used part of the steel steps as a weapon against Lesnar
It’s not unusual for WWE matches to push boundaries. Wrestlers have long utilized their environment as an extension of their arsenal. But where is the line drawn? That question arose when Cody Rhodes took the audacious step of wielding the steel steps against Lesnar. To many, including former WWE referee Jimmy Korderas, this wasn’t just strategy – it was a clear violation.
Speaking candidly on the show “Busted Open”, Korderas expressed his views, saying, “It technically should have been a disqualification.” He further explained the nuance behind the use of stairs in matches. “You can throw them into the stairs, and that’s not a disqualification… but he picked up the top half of the stairs and ran it into Brock. Technically speaking, that should have been a disqualification.“
Balancing Act: Rules vs. Spectacle
Korderas, having officiated numerous matches in his career, understands the complex balance between sticking to the rulebook and ensuring the fans get a show worth their money. He acknowledged this delicate balance, stating, “I get the argument about letting things fly because of the magnitude of the match, but at the same time, I think it should have been a DQ.”
The implications of these decisions are not just about the immediate result of a match but the broader reputation of the officials and the credibility of the sport. When these rules are bypassed or overlooked, it can inadvertently put the spotlight and blame on the referee. Korderas highlighted this concern, pointing out, “When you let that slide, the heat goes onto the referee for letting it go.”
Endorsement from a Legend
Interestingly, Korderas wasn’t alone in his perspective. Mark Henry, a WWE Hall of Famer and co-host on “Busted Open”, resonated with the sentiment. Henry emphasized that in the age-old battle of good vs. evil, the heat should be directed towards the heel, not the official in the ring. For the integrity of the sport, it’s essential that the villains and heroes of WWE maintain their roles without pushing the referee into an unintended spotlight.
What’s Next for Rhodes?
Despite the controversy, the result stands, and Cody Rhodes victory has cemented his status as a key player in the wrestling world. The post-match buzz indicates that he’s now set his sights on the WWE World Heavyweight Champion, Seth Rollins. The two engaged in both verbal spars and team dynamics on the August 7 edition of “WWE Raw”. As this new rivalry unfolds, fans and experts alike will be keen to see how the dynamics play out.
The debate surrounding Cody Rhodes’s actions at SummerSlam is a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of WWE. As the lines blur between entertainment and sporting integrity, decisions like these will always generate passionate responses from both sides. Regardless of where one stands on this particular incident, one thing is clear – WWE continues to captivate its audience with unexpected twists and turns, ensuring fans stay glued to their screens, eagerly awaiting the next big moment.
