Cody Rhodes’ SmackDown Title Win Bombed by Bot-Driven Dislikes
The recent championship victory of Cody Rhodes at WWE SmackDown on March 6 has sparked significant controversy. Rhodes faced Drew McIntyre in a pivotal match held at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon. Following his win, social media platforms exploded with criticism, particularly regarding the match’s video uploaded to YouTube.
Cody Rhodes Reclaims the Championship
During the main event, Rhodes defeated McIntyre to reclaim the Undisputed WWE Championship. The contest ended in chaos, marked by multiple referee bumps and a dramatic finish. Jacob Fatu intervened when McIntyre attempted to use a steel chair, allowing Rhodes to secure his victory with the Cody Cutter and Cross Rhodes.
Backlash and Controversy Over Dislikes
Upon its release, the YouTube match video garnered intense backlash. As of 4:30 PM on March 7, 2026, the video amassed approximately 996,000 views. However, it registered a staggering 119,000 dislikes compared to just 28,000 likes. This disparity raised eyebrows within the wrestling community, leading to discussions about potential manipulation.
- Video Statistics:
- Views: 996,000
- Likes: 28,000
- Dislikes: 119,000
Allegations of Bot-Driven Dislikes
Adding to the controversy, a Twitter user named @rawaftermania40 claimed responsibility for artificially inflating the dislike count. This individual boasted about purchasing 65,000 dislikes and even indicated plans for further purchases. Screenshots reportedly showed an order for these dislikes. The account has since been deleted amid the backlash.
Future Implications for WWE Events
Despite the negative online reception, Cody Rhodes’ victory paves the way for his upcoming title defense against Randy Orton. Orton earned this opportunity by winning the 2026 Men’s Elimination Chamber match and subsequently attacking Rhodes with an RKO.
As conversations continue about the authenticity of fan reactions, questions remain about the impact of bot-driven dislikes in the world of professional wrestling. The situation exemplifies the complex dynamics between fan engagement and online manipulation.
What are your thoughts on the authenticity of the backlash against Cody Rhodes’ title win? Was it genuine frustration from fans, or could bot activity have skewed perceptions?
