Cody Rhodes: The Man Who Rewrote His Own Wrestling Legacy
Cody Rhodes: The Man Who Rewrote His Own Wrestling Legacy
Deets On AEW
Cody Rhodes: The Man Who Rewrote His Own Wrestling Legacy
Cody Garrett Runnels Rhodes was born on June 30, 1985, into one of the most storied wrestling families in history. His father, "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes, was a legendary figure in professional wrestling, known for his charisma, in-ring ability, and connection with fans. His older brother, Dustin Rhodes (better known as Goldust), also carved a unique path in the wrestling industry. Growing up, Cody was immersed in the world of professional wrestling, and it was only natural for him to follow in his family’s footsteps.
After excelling as an amateur wrestler in high school, Cody transitioned to professional wrestling in 2006, signing with WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment), where he would begin his journey under the shadow of his father’s immense legacy.
WWE Beginnings and Stardust Gimmick
Cody debuted in WWE as part of its developmental territory, Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), where he quickly rose to prominence by capturing several titles. By 2007, he made his official WWE debut on the main roster and aligned himself with hardcore wrestling fans, particularly for his technical skill and charisma. Cody initially teamed with Hardcore Holly, capturing the WWE World Tag Team Championship, but it wasn’t until his partnership with Ted DiBiase Jr. and Randy Orton in the faction "Legacy" that Cody's character began to evolve.
While his initial run saw flashes of potential, it was his transformation into the Stardust character that significantly marked a turning point in his WWE career. Introduced in 2014, Stardust was a bizarre, cosmic alter ego created in the vein of his brother Goldust’s eccentric character. The Stardust persona received mixed reactions. While Cody performed the role with dedication, portraying a colorful and theatrical character who obsessed over the stars and cosmic energy, it felt like a creative dead-end for a wrestler who had greater aspirations.
Over time, the Stardust gimmick began to weigh heavily on Cody. Despite his efforts to breathe life into the character, it became apparent that WWE management saw him as a mid-card attraction rather than a top-tier talent. This creative frustration, combined with the fact that WWE was seemingly unwilling to invest in him as a main event star, led Cody to one of the most significant decisions of his life.
Cody Rhodes Leaves WWE: The Beginning of a New Chapter
In May 2016, Cody Rhodes made the bold choice to leave WWE. His decision was not just about rejecting the Stardust character, but about rejecting WWE's creative system, which he felt had pigeonholed him into a role he no longer wanted to play. For Cody, leaving the safety and security of WWE was a risk, but it was also a calculated one. He knew he could offer more to the wrestling world and wanted to prove that outside the constraints of WWE.
Upon his departure, Cody released a now-famous list on social media, outlining a series of dream opponents he wished to face on the independent circuit. It was clear that Cody was not merely stepping away from WWE but embracing the freedom to wrestle in multiple promotions and work with talents across the globe.
The Indie Circuit: The Reinvention of Cody Rhodes
Cody’s time on the indie scene allowed him to reinvent himself as a wrestler. No longer bound by the limitations of WWE’s creative structure, he showcased his ability as a versatile performer. Cody worked with a variety of promotions, including Ring of Honor (ROH), New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), and Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG), among others.
One of the defining moments of his post-WWE career came when Cody joined the Bullet Club in 2016. The Bullet Club, one of the most popular factions in modern wrestling, gave Cody a new platform to show his skills and allowed him to connect with an international fanbase. Aligning himself with stars like Kenny Omega, The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson), and others, Cody became a central figure in one of the hottest factions in wrestling. His matches in NJPW and ROH further solidified his reputation as someone who could deliver high-caliber performances in the ring, whether in singles competition or tag team matches.
Cody’s time in the indies was characterized by a commitment to showcasing his versatility, from winning the ROH World Championship in 2017 to competing at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom event, where he faced wrestling icon Kota Ibushi in a high-profile match. Cody’s ability to not only reinvent himself but also thrive in a variety of settings proved that he was much more than the gimmick WWE had assigned him. His stock as a global wrestling star rose significantly during this period.
Perhaps the most important element of Cody's indie run was his growing connection with the fanbase. In leaving WWE and achieving success independently, he became a symbol of what was possible outside the company's often restrictive system. Fans saw in Cody a wrestler who was willing to bet on himself and take risks to reach new heights, something that resonated with the growing discontent toward WWE’s monopoly on the wrestling industry.
The Birth of AEW: A Wrestling Revolution
Cody Rhodes’ indie run reached its crescendo with an event that would change the landscape of professional wrestling forever. In 2018, Cody, along with The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega, were the architects behind the independent wrestling show All In. The event, which was largely a self-funded endeavor, became the largest independent wrestling show in the United States in decades, selling out a 10,000-seat arena in Chicago and garnering attention from wrestling fans and media outlets worldwide. All In was a statement: there was a market for wrestling outside of WWE, and the appetite for an alternative product was massive.
All In was more than just a single event—it became the precursor to the formation of All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Backed by billionaire Tony Khan, AEW officially launched in 2019, with Cody serving not only as one of the company's top wrestlers but also as an Executive Vice President. Alongside The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega, Cody was instrumental in shaping AEW’s vision and mission.
The creation of AEW marked a seismic shift in the professional wrestling landscape. For the first time in nearly two decades, there was a major wrestling promotion with the financial backing and talent to compete with WWE. Cody's role as a founding member of AEW was crucial. He was not only a top performer but also a key creative force behind the scenes. His presence gave AEW credibility, especially among fans who had followed his journey from WWE to the indies, and now to a position of power within a brand-new wrestling organization.
Cody’s AEW Career: Establishing the Legacy
Cody’s role in AEW was multifaceted. As one of the company’s most recognizable faces, he took part in several high-profile feuds that helped establish AEW’s identity. One of his earliest and most impactful storylines was his feud with his former mentor, Chris Jericho, over the AEW World Championship. Cody's quest to become AEW's first champion ultimately fell short, but the match showcased his dedication to elevating the product and putting over other talents.
Cody’s matches in AEW were often a blend of old-school storytelling and modern wrestling. His love for wrestling's history and tradition was clear, and he worked hard to connect with the audience through emotional and dramatic bouts. His rivalries with stars like MJF, Darby Allin, and Brodie Lee were some of the most captivating storylines in AEW, often blending personal stakes with intense in-ring action.
In 2020, Cody also became the first-ever AEW TNT Champion, further solidifying his place in the company’s history. As TNT Champion, Cody made it his mission to defend the title frequently, elevating younger talent and putting on a series of standout matches with rising stars like Jungle Boy, Ricky Starks, and Eddie Kingston.
The American Nightmare: Cody’s Legacy in AEW
Throughout his AEW tenure, Cody adopted the moniker “The American Nightmare,” a tribute to his father, Dusty Rhodes, while simultaneously establishing his own identity. Cody’s persona in AEW was that of a noble fighter—a man willing to sacrifice everything for the wrestling business. His connection to the fans remained strong, particularly because they saw in him someone who was fighting for a new vision of wrestling, much like Dusty had done decades earlier.
Despite his undeniable importance to AEW, Cody’s time in the company was not without controversy. As AEW grew, so did the expectations of the fanbase, and Cody’s booking decisions, both for himself and the company, came under scrutiny. Some fans felt that Cody, as an Executive Vice President, was giving himself too much prominence, while others believed his refusal to challenge for the AEW World Championship (a stipulation he imposed on himself after losing to Jericho) limited his character’s potential.
However, Cody’s contributions to AEW’s rise cannot be overstated. He was instrumental in bringing legitimacy to the promotion, attracting mainstream attention, and helping to create a new wrestling landscape where talent could thrive outside of WWE’s shadow.
Legacy and Departure from AEW
Cody Rhodes' departure from All Elite Wrestling in February 2022 sent shockwaves through the wrestling world. As one of the founding members and Executive Vice Presidents, Cody had been instrumental in shaping AEW’s identity, making his exit both surprising and significant. The reasons behind his departure were the subject of much speculation, with rumors circulating about creative differences, backstage politics, and Cody’s desire to seek new challenges. Ultimately, the decision reflected Cody’s ongoing pursuit of personal growth and professional fulfillment—principles that had defined his career ever since he left WWE in 2016.
In a statement following his departure, Cody expressed his gratitude for AEW and his belief in the company’s mission to provide an alternative to WWE. He acknowledged the groundbreaking work that had been accomplished but alluded to the fact that his journey was not yet complete. For fans who had watched Cody’s transformation from a frustrated mid-card talent in WWE to a top star and executive in AEW, the news of his exit was bittersweet. It marked the end of a pivotal chapter in Cody’s career and left many wondering what his next move would be.
Return to WWE: A Hero’s Welcome
Just a few months after his departure from AEW, Cody Rhodes made his triumphant return to WWE at WrestleMania 38 in April 2022. In a highly anticipated and dramatic reveal, Cody was announced as the surprise opponent for Seth Rollins, reigniting his WWE career in grand fashion. Fans erupted in cheers as Cody, now fully embodying his "American Nightmare" persona, made his way to the ring. The moment was historic, not just because of the magnitude of WrestleMania but because of what Cody’s return represented: a homecoming to the company he had left years earlier on his own terms.
Cody’s return to WWE was characterized by a renewed sense of purpose. No longer confined to the Stardust gimmick or mid-card status, he was presented as a top-tier talent, fully in control of his destiny. His match against Rollins received widespread acclaim, with Cody delivering one of the best performances of his career. It was clear that WWE now viewed Cody as a main event-level star, and he wasted no time establishing himself as a cornerstone of the company’s future plans.
Cody’s New WWE Role: The Road to Redemption
Cody’s return to WWE came with a narrative of redemption and unfinished business. During his initial run, he had been unable to fully realize his potential due to creative constraints and the company’s reluctance to elevate him beyond a certain level. However, after years of proving himself on the independent circuit and helping to build AEW into a legitimate competitor, Cody returned to WWE with newfound credibility and confidence.
One of the key storylines that emerged from Cody’s return was his desire to honor his father’s legacy by winning the WWE Championship—something Dusty Rhodes had never accomplished. This goal gave Cody’s WWE run a deeply personal and emotional edge. His quest to become WWE Champion became a central focus of his character, and fans rallied behind him as a symbol of determination, perseverance, and the pursuit of legacy.
Cody’s rivalry with Seth Rollins extended beyond their WrestleMania match, with the two engaging in a series of high-stakes, critically acclaimed bouts. Each match elevated Cody further in the eyes of the WWE Universe, solidifying his place as one of the company’s top stars. However, his journey took an unexpected turn when he suffered a torn pectoral muscle in June 2022, sidelining him for several months.
Injury and Comeback
The timing of Cody’s injury was unfortunate, as it occurred during the height of his momentum in WWE. Despite this setback, Cody’s resolve remained unshaken. In fact, his decision to compete in a Hell in a Cell match against Seth Rollins just after tearing his pectoral muscle only heightened his reputation as a tough, resilient competitor. The match, which saw Cody wrestle with a visible and severe injury, earned him widespread admiration for his courage and dedication.
After undergoing surgery to repair the torn muscle, Cody took time off to recover, but his absence did not diminish his standing in WWE. If anything, it only fueled anticipation for his eventual return. Fans eagerly awaited the continuation of Cody’s story, knowing that he had unfinished business in the ring—particularly his goal of winning the WWE Championship.
Cody made his highly anticipated return at the 2023 Royal Rumble, entering as a surprise participant and ultimately winning the match to secure a title shot at WrestleMania 39. His return was met with a hero’s welcome, and the victory positioned him for a potential showdown with the reigning champion, Roman Reigns.
The Road to WrestleMania 39: A Defining Moment
WrestleMania 39 was set to be a defining moment in Cody Rhodes’ career. The stage was set for a monumental clash between Cody and Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, with the stakes higher than ever. For Cody, the match was about more than just winning a title—it was about fulfilling a dream that had eluded his family for decades. It was the culmination of his journey from being overlooked and underutilized in WWE to becoming one of the most respected and influential figures in the wrestling world.
The buildup to WrestleMania 39 was filled with emotional promos, as Cody reflected on his father’s legacy, his personal struggles, and his desire to become the face of WWE. The match itself was an epic encounter, with both men giving everything they had in pursuit of victory. While Cody ultimately fell short in his quest to dethrone Reigns, the match was a testament to his resilience and determination.
Although Cody did not walk away with the WWE Championship that night, his performance solidified his place as one of WWE’s top stars. The loss was seen as a temporary setback rather than a definitive end to his story, and fans remained hopeful that Cody’s time as champion would come sooner rather than later.
Winning the WWE Championship: Fulfilling a Family Legacy
Cody Rhodes' long-awaited moment came at WrestleMania 40 in 2024, when he finally achieved the dream that had eluded his family for generations—winning the WWE Championship. The road to this victory was paved with hard work, personal growth, and a deeply emotional connection to his father, the legendary Dusty Rhodes. After years of being considered an underdog and enduring numerous setbacks, Cody stood tall as the champion, fulfilling the prophecy he had set out to achieve since his return to WWE.
The match that earned Cody the WWE Championship was nothing short of historic. He faced Roman Reigns, who had been the reigning champion for over 1,000 days and was considered one of the most dominant figures in modern WWE history. The build-up to their clash was filled with high stakes, personal animosity, and a sense of destiny. Cody entered the match carrying the weight of his father’s legacy, as well as the expectations of fans who had followed his journey from Stardust to the "American Nightmare."
In a grueling and emotional contest, Cody overcame Reigns after an over 30-minute battle that saw both men push each other to the limit. The moment Cody lifted the WWE Championship was a watershed in his career—a culmination of everything he had worked for, from leaving WWE to build himself up on the indies and AEW to returning as one of the most respected figures in the industry.
As Cody celebrated with the title in hand, the WWE Universe erupted in cheers, acknowledging not just the victory but the significance of what Cody had accomplished. For Cody, the moment represented the fulfillment of a personal and professional dream, as well as a tribute to his father, Dusty Rhodes, whose presence had been felt throughout his son’s career. Cody dedicated his victory to Dusty, reminding the world of the impact the Rhodes family had on wrestling.
Cody Rhodes’ Lasting Impact on Wrestling
Cody Rhodes' career has left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling, one defined by his relentless pursuit of independence, innovation, and respect for his family’s legacy. From his early years as a mid-card talent in WWE to his groundbreaking role as a founder of All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and eventual return to WWE, Cody’s journey has been a story of resilience and transformation.
His decision to leave WWE in 2016 not only sparked his own personal growth but also reshaped the wrestling landscape. Cody’s contributions to the rise of AEW as a viable competitor to WWE signaled a new era in professional wrestling, offering an alternative platform for wrestlers and fans seeking creative freedom. As one of the promotion’s key architects, Cody helped solidify AEW as a major player in the industry, bridging the gap between mainstream wrestling and the independent scene.
Cody’s return to WWE in 2022 and his subsequent quest for the WWE Championship showcased a performer who had matured both as an athlete and a leader. His commitment to honoring his father, Dusty Rhodes, while carving out his own path in the industry, earned him the respect of fans and peers alike. When Cody finally captured the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 40, it symbolized not just personal triumph but also the culmination of a multi-generational story of perseverance.
Cody Rhodes’ legacy is that of a trailblazer—a wrestler who broke free from the limitations imposed on him and built a career on his own terms. Whether through his time in the indies, his role in AEW, or his championship success in WWE, Cody has continually pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in wrestling. His story is one of evolution, proving that with passion and determination, a wrestler can truly change the game and inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps