There’s an ongoing debate among wrestling fans about who deserves the most credit for carrying major WWE storylines in 2024. One popular view is that Sami Zayn is the one “carrying” the Bloodline storyline, given his integral role and ability to capture the audience’s attention. However, fans who support this perspective often don’t extend the same logic to other storylines, particularly when it comes to Cody Rhodes. While Zayn undeniably adds emotional depth to the Bloodline’s saga, it’s equally clear that Kevin Owens and Randy Orton have been vital in elevating Cody’s storyline this year. This contrast in perception is striking and raises the question of why fans may not keep the same energy across different storylines.
Sami Zayn’s contributions to the Bloodline storyline can’t be denied. His complex relationship with Jey Uso, his roller-coaster alliance with Roman Reigns, and his tension-filled history with Owens have all woven additional layers into the Bloodline’s narrative. Zayn has excelled in portraying a character filled with internal conflict, and his onscreen chemistry with Reigns and Jey adds emotional resonance. Fans have praised Zayn for his efforts, crediting him for carrying much of the intrigue around the Bloodline. But the idea that he alone is responsible for carrying the story is an oversimplification, as it overlooks the efforts of other key players like Jey, Jimmy, and Roman himself.
In contrast, the storyline involving Cody Rhodes this year has heavily relied on the presence of Kevin Owens and Randy Orton to keep things fresh and engaging. KO has brought his own unique intensity and unpredictability to the mix, while Orton’s charisma and storyline depth have added complexity to Cody’s journey. Owens, with his rebellious edge, is often the perfect counterpoint to Cody’s heroic persona, creating compelling tensions that keep fans invested. Randy, on the other hand, provides a storied history with Cody that brings additional stakes, especially for longtime fans who remember their past alliances and betrayals. These two have not only made Cody’s journey more layered but have actively shaped the direction and intensity of the storyline.
The inconsistency in fan perception is interesting, as both Zayn and KO-Orton have significantly contributed to their respective storylines. When fans single out Zayn as the “savior” of the Bloodline story, they often fail to apply the same standard to the other angles. Cody’s story, after all, could be seen as being carried just as much by KO and Orton, who continue to amplify the stakes and add intensity to Cody’s narrative arc. This selective acknowledgment might stem from personal preferences, but it also highlights the bias within wrestling fandom. Fans are quick to credit certain wrestlers for their contributions while downplaying others’ impact, even when they play a similar role in keeping their storylines engaging.
At the end of the day, every major storyline in WWE is the result of multiple wrestlers collaborating, each bringing something essential to the table. Sami Zayn’s impact on the Bloodline story has been invaluable, and so has the work of KO and Orton in Cody’s saga. Rather than downplaying certain wrestlers’ roles, it’s worth recognizing that they all contribute something unique. Both storylines are a testament to WWE’s collaborative storytelling, where each superstar’s performance helps elevate the entire narrative. In this way, wrestling fans should keep the same energy when crediting performers across the board, celebrating the collective effort that makes these stories unforgettable.