Ahead of Cody Rhodes leading Team USA into battle against Team Mexico at WWE Survivor Series 2026, he shared some interesting comments during the latest episode of his ‘What Do You Wanna Talk About?’ podcast.

Speaking to special guest Chelsea Green, “The American Nightmare” revealed he’s been “actively trying” to form a group on WWE TV, which has unsurprisingly led to speculation regarding these potential plans.

With Rhodes recently punt kicking Randy Orton in the head – and saying he “loved” doing so – could he finally be nearing a heel turn, complete with his own faction?

Here are three potential additions to a new Cody Rhodes-led heel faction in WWE:

Ricky Saints

The first name that comes to mind for a Cody Rhodes faction also happens to be one of his real life best friends: “Absolute” Ricky Saints.

The former NXT Champion made a splash on his first night on SmackDown back on May 1, interrupting a Cody Rhodes promo and later facing off with the then Undisputed WWE Champion in that show’s main event.

Saints continued to be featured on TV regularly after this when he entered the United States Championship picture, but ultimately he would fail in his attempt to win the title from Trick Williams at Night of Champions 2026.

Saints would then spend more time appearing in social media exclusive segments than on TV, but a feud with Rey Fenix over the AAA Cruiserweight Title would lead to him returning to SmackDown and putting on some exciting matches opposite his fellow AEW alum.

With that rivalry also ending in defeat, Saints is now in desperate need of some new direction and an alliance with Rhodes would be about as good as it gets. Working with an established star like Rhodes should allow Saints to show more of his personality and secure him a consistent spot on TV, much like Johnny Gargano’s partnership with Sami Zayn.

BirthRight

Why just recruit one or two names to your side when you could just take over an entire faction?

WWE NXT’s BirthRight is a group of multi-generation stars that are out to ensure that the legacy of their respective family names is carried forward and built upon in a new era.

With Rhodes being a second-generation star himself – and one who is mighty proud to honor his father at every opportunity – it would be fitting to see him step in as the new leader of BirthRight and bring them to the main roster in a high profile spot.

Charlotte Flair

Another second-generation star that is very proud of her last name is Charlotte Flair, and “The Queen” is someone that has made no secret about her wish to work alongside Cody Rhodes on WWE TV. 

With Ric Flair and Dusty Rhodes being such legendary rivals it would be fitting to see the pair link up as allies in a faction, one that carries an air of superiority given their legendary last names.

This could be a new version of the aforementioned BirthRight group led by Rhodes and Flair, or something new entirely, but as two power hungry heels, Rhodes and Flair could make for quite the pairing.