Cody Rhodes reveals scrapped WWE storyline involving Simone Johnson

Cody Rhodes has revealed an alternative creative direction for his 2025 WWE storyline involving Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. During an episode of his podcast, ‘What Do You Wanna Talk About?’, Rhodes discussed a pitch where, instead of refusing The Rock’s demand for his soul, he would have surrendered it to The Rock’s daughter, Simone Johnson (known as Ava during her tenure as NXT General Manager).

Rhodes explained that the plan involved him becoming silent and allowing Johnson to act as his voice. Both Rhodes and Johnson expressed that the angle ‘would have crushed it’ and noted that Johnson believed her father would have supported the creative shift. The storyline ultimately took a different path, leading to a heel turn by John Cena at Elimination Chamber 2025.

Additionally, Johnson reflected on the personal impact of facing fan backlash following her time as NXT General Manager. She noted that the negative reactions changed her perspective on the wrestling business, eventually helping her build more confidence in her professional journey.