Fightful Select has confirmed a report by Dave Meltzer of The Wrestling Observer, that it was pitched to Cody Rhodes for him to turn heel and align with The Rock for his title match at WrestleMania 41 against John Cena. However, Cody turned down the heel turn idea and instead a heel turn was then brought up to Cena, who agreed with The Rock fully on board with the idea for the storyline.
Furthermore, it was said the idea for Cody to turn heel was part of WWE’s normal planning for WrestleMania to generate buzz. It was added that those close to Cody were not aware the pitch was made to him for a heel turn.
Storyline plans last November were already created with Cody defending the Undisputed WWE Championship against Cena at WrestleMania 41.