4 WWE stars who can replace Cody Rhodes for WarGames after attack on SmackDown

The latest episode of WWE SmackDown started with The Vision getting one over on Team Punk. The Usos trotted out to counter Paul Heyman, Bron Breakker, Logan Paul, and Bronson Reed, but claimed they weren't alone.

When Cody Rhodes' music predictably hit, he was nowhere to be seen. Cameras rushed to the champ's bus to find Drew McIntyre leaving. He had attacked his bitter rival, leaving him stuffed into the front seat.

If The American Nightmare is slated to miss the annual cage match, Team Punk will need reinforcements. The next four WWE stars could replace Rhodes at WarGames.

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#4. Randy Orton could fill in for his friend

Randy Orton has been Cody Rhodes' staunchest ally since his return to WWE. The Viper was the "surprise" final member of his team in 2023 and has backed Rhodes up in nearly every one of his feuds.

The Legend Killer hasn't been on programming since an attack from Seth Rollins on the October 3 episode of SmackDown. Before that angle, Orton was feuding with McIntyre and Logan Paul.

Orton has a history with every member on Team Vision, including recent issues with Paul and The Scottish Warrior. Due to his friendship with Rhodes, it wouldn't be a stretch if he filled in at WarGames.

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#3. Damian Priest could get a boost

While he has been feuding lately with Aleister Black, Damian Priest has experience in WarGames. He opposed Orton in 2023 alongside The Judgment Day.

After a face turn, he's feuded with McIntyre and other heels. Priest even saved Rhodes one week when Black faced the Undisputed Champion in the main event of SmackDown.

McIntyre showed up to attack the ref and Cody, so there's still recent history between the two. Priest could back up Team Punk after the attack.

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#2. LA Knight could revisit the feud

LA Knight has been the forgotten man in the ongoing drama between The Vision, The Usos, and CM Punk. He battled fellow heroes for chances at the World Heavyweight Title, but fell short.

The Megastar had issues with both Jey Uso and Punk, but didn't turn heel. If Rhodes truly misses WarGames, adding Knight would finally let those teases pay off.

Most people think he'd turn heel, but it'd be a huge shock and bigger moment if Jimmy or Jey turned. Knight is a great replacement if needed.

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#1. Sami Zayn's recent history in WWE

Sami Zayn has competed in every WarGames match ever since WWE brought it to the main roster. He's won three times and is still a member of the OG Bloodline.

He may be leading his own team the night before in a traditional 5-on-5 match, but his hero complex could always lead him to show up for WarGames. His loyalty to The Usos, Cody, and Roman Reigns could bring him back into the fold.

Zayn was also among the first to oppose Seth Rollins as he created The Vision. That would be a good callback to earlier this year if Rhodes doesn't compete in WarGames.