"I Quit" stipulation spoils outcome of Cody Rhodes versus AJ Styles

Cody Rhodes and AJ Styles put on an amazing match at WWE Backlash. The two veterans were expected to have a great match, but when coupled with the crowd reaction, this will be remembered as one of the biggest moments of the year. Running it back at Clash at the Castle Scotland makes sense. Unfortunately, making this an “I Quit” match spoils the outcome.

Cody Rhodes is the champion that WWE needs heading into this post-WrestleMania and post-Vince McMahon world. As the company attempts to distance itself from the heinous allegations facing McMahon, John Laurinaitis and the company, Rhodes as the front-facing man gives the company a performer who can carry the shield. He was the right choice to defeat Roman Reigns, and that moment delivered. Two months later the momentum is palpable and WWE wants to ride that for as long as possible.

AJ Styles won’t defeat Cody Rhodes and this match type makes it clear. Imagine a scenario where Rhodes, that figure that’s become the face of the company, quits because he takes too much pain in a match. That’s not going to happen. Not to this version of Rhodes.

But what is interesting is how this will impact Styles. The story right now is that Styles is desperate for one final run at the top. As he’s put it, Styles doesn’t have much time left and he’s willing to do whatever is necessary to get the WWE Undisputed Championship. Fans want to see Styles reach that point. There’s a loud contingent of fans that don’t think Styles truly got his time at the top in WWE, and regardless of the stance on that opinion – Styles deserves recognition as one of the best in the industry. Still, he’s going to lose this match.

AJ Styles versus Cody Rhodes II is going to be an epic battle. The fans in Scotland are already going to be hyped for this show, giving them a big title match will be the icing on the cake. Expect the duo to check all the boxes in the match, including brawling through the crowd. There’s a push to see Styles at the top for one last run of his career, and while that may come it’s not going to come in Scotland. Making this an “I Quit” match tips WWE’s hands that Cody Rhodes will successfully retain in this pivotal matchup.