Cody Rhodes. The name resonates with wrestling fans across the globe. But Cody Rhodes is more than just a wrestler. He’s a symbol of perseverance, a testament to family legacy, and a prime example of betting on yourself, even when everyone else tells you it’s impossible. Let’s be honest, his journey is a rollercoaster, packed with unexpected twists, turns, and, of course, signature wrestling moves. What fascinates me is how he managed to carve his own path, escaping the shadow of his legendary father, Dusty Rhodes, and building a legacy that stands alone.
The “American Nightmare” Rises | From Stardust to Stardom
Remember Stardust? The glittery, bizarre character Cody portrayed in WWE? It was… something. But here’s the thing: that character, as much as it was creatively stifling for Cody, was a crucial stepping stone. It forced him to realize what he didn’t want to be.
And so, in 2016, Cody Rhodes did something audacious. He left WWE. He bet on himself. He embarked on a journey through the independent wrestling scene. Now, many wrestlers have done this, but few have done it with the sheer determination and strategic brilliance that Cody displayed. It wasn’t just about wrestling in different promotions; it was about building a brand, connecting with fans on a deeper level, and proving to the world that he was more than just Dusty’s son. It was about showing his true potential as a top professional wrestler.
Cody showcased his wrestling talent in promotions like Ring of Honor (ROH), Impact Wrestling, and New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), showcasing to wrestling fans he was a bonafide wrestling star.
The All In Gamble and the Birth of AEW
This is where the story gets really interesting. Cody, along with The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega, decided to organize a wrestling event called “All In.” The goal? To prove that independent wrestling could draw a massive crowd. And guess what? They sold out a 10,000-seat arena.
“All In” wasn’t just a successful wrestling show; it was a proof of concept. It demonstrated that there was a huge, underserved market of wrestling fans craving an alternative to WWE. This event was the catalyst of All Elite Wrestling (AEW). AEW, co-founded by Cody Rhodes, emerged as a legitimate competitor to WWE, forever changing the landscape of professional wrestling. It provided a platform for wrestlers to showcase their talent, tell compelling stories, and connect with fans in a more authentic way. This approach resonated with a large audience, leading to AEW’s rapid growth and success .
But, here’s the thing: even in AEW, Cody faced criticism. Some felt his storylines were self-indulgent. Others questioned his booking decisions. But you can’t deny the impact he had on the company’s early success. He helped establish AEW as a viable alternative and created a platform for countless wrestlers to shine.
The Homecoming | Cody’s Return to WWE
Then came the shocker. In 2022, Cody Rhodes returned to WWE. Many saw it as a betrayal of AEW. Others saw it as a strategic move to finally achieve his ultimate goal: winning the WWE Championship, a title his father never held.
Let me rephrase that for clarity… Cody’s return to WWE wasn’t just about fulfilling a personal dream. It was about proving that he could succeed on the biggest stage, under the brightest lights, and against the toughest competition. His WrestleMania 38 match against Seth Rollins was a masterclass in storytelling, emotion, and in-ring action. It felt like a genuine homecoming, a moment of redemption for a wrestler who had spent years proving his worth.
Cody would suffer a torn pec before defeating Seth Rollins at WWE Hell in a Cell in June of 2022.
Now, he is WWE Undisputed Universal Champion after dethroning Roman Reigns at Wrestlemania 40. What is Cody’s next move?
The Legacy Continues | More Than Just a Last Name
So, why does Cody Rhodes’ story matter? Because it’s a story about resilience. It’s a story about believing in yourself, even when others don’t. It’s a story about creating your own destiny. It’s about more than wrestling; it’s about the power of dreams and what you can achieve when you pursue them with unwavering passion.
Cody has said that his late father, Dusty Rhodes, told him that every professional wrestler has 3 or 4 runs in them. Dusty also said that in between these runs you need to change up the character because wrestling fans need something fresh.
And here’s the kicker: Cody’s story is far from over. He’s still writing new chapters, inspiring new fans, and proving that the name Rhodes carries a weight of its own, a weight of passion, dedication, and unwavering belief in the power of professional wrestling. Perhaps he’s looking at WWE Wrestlemania 41 and thinking what can I do next?
One thing you absolutely must understand about Cody is he is more than just a last name. He’s a proven WWE superstar. His impact on the wrestling worldis undeniable.
FAQ | Decoding the “American Nightmare”
What is Cody Rhodes’ real name?
His real name is Cody Runnels. Rhodes is his wrestling name, honoring his father, Dusty Rhodes.
What are Cody Rhodes’ signature moves?
Some of his most well-known moves include the Cross Rhodes (a spinning facebuster) and the Disaster Kick.
Has Cody Rhodes ever won the WWE Championship?
Yes, Cody Rhodes defeated Roman Reigns at Wrestlemania 40 to become the WWE Undisputed Universal Champion.
What’s next for Cody Rhodes in WWE?
That’s the million-dollar question! Keep watching WWE programming to find out what’s next for the “American Nightmare.”
How did Cody Rhodes get his start in wrestling?
Cody followed in his father’s footsteps, training to become a professional wrestler and eventually signing with WWE.
Ultimately, Cody Rhodes isn’t just carrying on a legacy; he’s building one of his own, brick by brick, dream by dream. And that’s a story worth following.
