Cody Rhodes has learned a lesson about referencing fan-given nicknames on live television, and he is candid about why the moment did not land the way he intended.
During the February 6 episode of SmackDown, Rhodes made an on-air reference to "Raheem," the nickname fans had given him, while commenting on the tension between Roman Reigns and CM Punk. The moment was meant to be funny, but Rhodes has since reflected on why taking ownership of it himself changed the dynamic entirely.
Speaking on Matt and Shane's Secret Podcast, Rhodes addressed the decision with characteristic self-awareness.
"I referenced my nickname on TV, Raheem, and that was funny until I said it. Now, I live with it. It's not mine to say. It's not mine. I learned. I learn every day," he said.
The comment captures something genuine about how fan culture works in wrestling. A nickname that generates organic laughter and goodwill when it exists in the crowd or on social media can lose its energy the moment the person it belongs to tries to adopt it themselves. Rhodes acknowledged that reality directly rather than trying to walk back the moment or pretend it did not happen.
Rhodes defends the Undisputed WWE Championship against Randy Orton in the Night One main event of WrestleMania 42 on Saturday, April 18 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
