NEWS - ABSURD Update On Cody Rhodes' WWE Status!

WhatCulture Wrestling11mApril 23, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

This week's Solo Thursday news episode from WhatCulture Wrestling delivers a mix of absurd, dramatic, and nostalgic updates from WWE. The segment opens with Cody Rhodes' bizarre yet positive medical update after a brutal WrestleMania 42 match against Randy Orton, where he sustained significant facial injuries. Despite being in concussion protocol, Cody is reportedly not concussed and is already back on TV, fueling speculation about a potential high-stakes rematch with CM Punk at WrestleMania 43. The episode then shifts to NXT, where Sol Ruka is widely expected to be called up to the main roster following a heartfelt Instagram farewell and a strong send-off match. Her rise is seen as a major boost for the women's division, with speculation about whether she’ll land on Raw or SmackDown. Meanwhile, Blake Monroe is reportedly being replaced by newcomer Micah Lockwood, a high-flying acrobat with a unique finisher, who’s already been introduced as part of The Vanity Project. The episode concludes with a wild story about Ric Flair being banned from WrestleMania 41 and 42 after threatening Ludwig Kaiser—despite Kaiser being 35, not 24—and Flair’s self-aggrandizing claims about his legacy, phone numbers, and red carpet expectations, which clash with his recent behavior. The host critiques Flair’s actions as undermining his own legendary status. Key takeaways include: Cody Rhodes is recovering well and likely returning quickly, setting up a potential WrestleMania 43 main event with CM Punk; Sol Ruka’s main roster call-up is imminent and highly anticipated; Micah Lockwood is poised to become a breakout star in NXT; Ric Flair’s recent behavior, including threats and outlandish claims, risks tarnishing his legacy despite his historic contributions; and WWE should prioritize legacy respect over ego-driven drama. The episode balances humor, fan speculation, and critical commentary, reflecting both excitement for upcoming storylines and concern over how legends like Flair are managing their public image.

Key Takeaways
1

Cody Rhodes is recovering from serious injuries but not concussed, and is expected to return quickly, possibly leading to a WrestleMania 43 main event against CM Punk.

2

Sol Ruka is widely expected to be called up to the main roster imminently, following a heartfelt farewell on NXT and strong performances across brands.

3

Micah Lockwood has been officially introduced as Blake Monroe’s replacement on NXT, bringing high-flying athleticism and a unique finisher to The Vanity Project.

4

Ric Flair was banned from WrestleMania 41 and 42 after threatening Ludwig Kaiser, despite Kaiser being 35, not 24, and Flair’s actions are seen as damaging to his legendary status.

5

WWE should honor Ric Flair’s legacy with respect, but not overlook the consequences of his recent behavior, including threats and ego-driven statements.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Cody Rhodes' Absurd Medical Update

You won't lose the eye. Has to be the most positive yet absurd thing I've ever heard in a doctor's office.

Highlight
2:00
3 min

Cody Rhodes' Return & WrestleMania 43 Speculation

Cody Rhodes is in concussion protocol but not concussed, and his quick return to Raw has fueled speculation about a potential main event match against CM Punk at WrestleMania 43.

5:00
3 min

Sol Ruka's Main Roster Call-Up Imminent

Thank you NXT, it's been real.

Highlight
7:30
3 min

Blake Monroe's Replacement by Micah Lockwood

Blake Monroe is being replaced on NXT by Micah Lockwood, a 24-year-old acrobat from the Next In Line program, who made her on-screen debut as a potential love interest for Jackson Drake.

10:00
1 min

Ric Flair's WrestleMania Ban & Legacy Crisis

A 24-year-old kid being threatened by a 76-year-old man, and I can't go to WrestleMania? Are you kidding me?

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
A 24-year-old kid being threatened by a 76-year-old man, and I can't go to WrestleMania? Are you kidding me?
Andrew Pollard8:26
Viral: 90.0
You won't lose the eye. Has to be the most positive yet absurd thing I've ever heard in a doctor's office.
Andrew Pollard1:37
Viral: 85.0
I called him. I said, hey, when I see you, I'm going to beat the shit out of you.
Ric Flair8:58
Viral: 80.0
Speakers

Host

Andrew Pollard
Topics Discussed
Ric Flair Legacy and Controversy95%Cody Rhodes Injury and Recovery90%WrestleMania 43 Speculation88%WWE Main Roster Call-Ups85%NXT Talent Transitions80%WWE Women's Division Development75%Wrestling Media and Commentary60%Professional Wrestling Gimmicks55%
People & Brands

Ric Flair

person

14xMixed

WWE

organization

12xNeutral

Cody Rhodes

person

12xPositive

Ludwig Kaiser

person

10xNeutral

Sol Ruka

person

8xPositive

NXT

brand

8xPositive

Raw

brand

6xPositive

Blake Monroe

person

6xNeutral

Micah Lockwood

person

5xPositive

SmackDown

brand

5xPositive

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