Cody Rhodes’ use of Paul Heyman catchphrase on Aug. 21 SmackDown sparks alignment speculation
On the August 21 edition of WWE SmackDown in Toronto, Cody Rhodes used Paul Heyman’s catchphrase, “That is not a prediction, it’s a spoiler,” during a heated promo with Randy Orton, prompting fan speculation that Rhodes may align with Heyman.
Rhodes and Orton were set to renew their rivalry in a WrestleMania 42 rematch next month at Sunday Night’s Main Event in Atlanta, Georgia, but GM Nick Aldis warned that if either man laid a finger on the other before that match they would never get another shot at the WWE Championship; the pair refrained from brawling and continued trading words on the microphone. Rhodes labelled himself “the Legend Killer” during the exchange and concluded his remarks with Heyman’s line, which immediately drew attention.
The mention of Heyman led many fans to theorize that Rhodes could become a “Paul Heyman Guy” and potentially turn heel; the two performers have shared multiple segments and storylines in WWE, and the reference reignited conversations about an on-screen partnership. The topic of Cody Rhodes turning heel has been a recurring subject among supporters, with rumors surfacing after attacks, brawls, or provocative promos.
Observers noted Heyman is not currently aligned with any performer; he has served as the on-screen manager for Brock Lesnar, the Wiseman to Roman Reigns, and the Oracle for the Vision. The article states Heyman is currently unaffiliated, particularly after Lesnar retired and Heyman opted to stay away from the Vision faction.
Some fans believe pairing Rhodes with Heyman would introduce a new dynamic to the Blue brand and could follow a similar storyline trajectory to past Heyman-led alliances. Supporters argue that if Rhodes abandoned his face persona and embraced a heel role, it would make his character more unpredictable; nevertheless, there remains no on-screen confirmation that Rhodes will turn heel.
The piece also notes that even if WWE resists a full heel turn for Rhodes—citing that he is currently the face of the company and one of the top merch sellers—a gradual villain arc with Heyman at his side is viewed by some as a viable alternative. The article reports that Cody’s on-screen manner has appeared more ruthless in recent months, a factor fans point to in the debate over his alignment.
Sunday Night’s Main Event is scheduled for Sunday, September 6, 2026, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, billed as WWE’s first-ever Sunday Night’s Main Event, with the announced card listing Cody Rhodes vs Randy Orton, Oba Femi vs Bron Breakker, and Baron Corbin vs Lil Yachty (If Yachty lasts 5 minutes, Trick Williams will get a US title shot against Corbin).