| Real Name: | Cody Garrett Runnels Rhodes |
| Birthday: | June 30, 1985 |
| Net Worth | $8 million |
| Height: | 185 cm |
| Occupation: | American Professional Wrestler, Actor, Son of Dusty Rhodes, Brother of Dustin Rhodes |
Cody Rhodes, born on June 30, 1985, has established himself as a renowned professional wrestler in the world of sports entertainment. Having gained fame and recognition in various wrestling promotions, Rhodes’ versatile persona and tenacity as a competitor have led him to become a fan favorite. His time in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) from 2019 to 2022 allowed him to serve as an executive vice president and become the record-tying three-time AEW TNT Champion.
In 2023, Cody Rhodes made his return to WWE, where he had initially built a reputation for himself prior to his time in AEW. His dedication, skill, and charisma in the ring helped him cement his position as a top star in the company. As he continued to evolve as a wrestler and performer, Rhodes set his sights on becoming the face of WWE, showcasing his ambition and relentless pursuit of success.
Throughout his career, Cody Rhodes has continued to surprise fans with his accomplishments in both WWE and AEW. His contributions to both promotions have helped shape the landscape of professional wrestling, setting an example for future generations of performers. As his journey unfolds, audiences eagerly anticipate the milestones that he will reach, firmly establishing his legacy in the wrestling world.
Content Compass
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Dusty Rhodes’ Influence
Cody Rhodes was born on June 30, 1985, in Marietta, Georgia. He grew up in a wrestling family, with his father being the legendary Dusty Rhodes, a highly influential figure in the world of professional wrestling. Dusty’s influence on Cody was immense, as he was exposed to the business at an early age, building a strong foundation for his future in the industry.
Training and Debut
Before embarking on his professional wrestling career, Cody made a name for himself in the amateur wrestling circuit, becoming a two-time Georgia state champion. Eager to continue his family legacy, Cody pursued a career in professional wrestling and joined WWE in 2006. Initially assigned to WWE’s developmental territory, Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), he underwent rigorous training to hone his skills.
Within OVW, Cody showcased his technical abilities, earning the attention of WWE officials. Combining both his father’s influence and his prolific training in OVW, Cody Rhodes laid the groundworks for a successful wrestling career that would span multiple wrestling promotions and see him win numerous championships.
Cody’s journey in professional wrestling is a testament to his dedication, determination, and the influence of a wrestling icon in Dusty Rhodes.
WWE Tenure
Stardust Character
Cody Rhodes’ WWE career featured a memorable run as the Stardust character. Initially teaming up with his half-brother Goldust, the duo embraced their cosmic personas, entertaining the WWE Universe with their unique gimmicks and in-ring abilities.
Intercontinental and Tag Team Championships
Rhodes accomplished significant success within WWE, including winning the Intercontinental Championship twice. Additionally, he clinched the WWE Tag Team Championships on seven occasions, partnering with various superstars like Ted DiBiase Jr. and Jey Uso. His title victories demonstrate his versatility and adaptability in the squared circle.
Storylines and Key Feuds
Over the years, Cody Rhodes found himself in several notable storylines and rivalries. Early in his career, Rhodes was part of The Legacy faction, alongside Randy Orton and Ted DiBiase Jr. The group caused havoc in the WWE, engaging in high-profile feuds with top stars.
Departure and Independent Circuit
Rhodes eventually departed from WWE to explore opportunities on the independent circuit. During this period, he gained valuable experience, honing his craft and building his brand as a wrestler. Despite his absence, fans eagerly anticipated a potential return to the WWE stage in the future.
All Elite Wrestling (AEW)
Co-Founder and Executive Roles
In January 2019, Cody Rhodes, also known as “The American Nightmare,” was unveiled as an executive vice president of the newly formed All Elite Wrestling (AEW). AlongsideThe Young Bucks and Tony Khan, Rhodes played a pivotal role in its creation, following the success of their independent show, “All In.”
As an executive vice president, Rhodes was responsible for various aspects of AEW’s operations and creative direction. During this time, he continued to serve as a wrestler, showcasing his in-ring talent and captivating persona.
Memorable Matches and Championships
In AEW, Cody Rhodes had several memorable matches and championship reigns. One notable accomplishment was winning the AEW TNT Championship. Under his tenure as both an executive and wrestler, AEW experienced growth, and the promotion became a force within the professional wrestling industry.
Departure and Return to WWE
In February 2022, after failing to negotiate a new contract, Cody Rhodes relinquished his executive position within AEW. Not only was this a turning point for Rhodes, but also for AEW itself, as they lost a vital member of their executive team and roster. In April, Rhodes made a surprising return to WWE at WrestleMania 38, where he defeated Seth Rollins.
Cody Rhodes’ time in AEW left a lasting impact on the company. His contributions as both a performer and executive will not be forgotten. As he continues his career in WWE, the legacy of his work in AEW will live on.
Return to WWE
Royal Rumble and WrestleMania 38
Cody Rhodes made a triumphant return to WWE after a six-year hiatus. His reappearance was first witnessed at the Royal Rumble, where he and CM Punk engaged in a face-to-face confrontation that had fans buzzing with anticipation. This pivotal moment in WWE history paved the way for a high-stakes showdown between the two accomplished wrestlers at WrestleMania 38. The event, held on April 2, 2022, marked the beginning of a new chapter for Cody, who reemerged as a “completely different individual,” according to WWE coverage.
Pursuit of the WWE Championship
The Royal Rumble confrontation fueled Cody’s ambitions to pursue the prestigious WWE Championship. In the highly competitive landscape of WWE, this coveted title represents ultimate success. Among the various contenders, two of the most prominent are Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar, both of whom have proven their dominance in recent years.
While Cody is a formidable competitor in his own right, challenges against formidable champions such as Reigns and Lesnar make the WWE Championship an elusive goal. However, Cody’s undeniable talent and renewed focus on WWE bring the potential for exciting rivalries and alliances, creating a thrilling path toward the sought-after championship.
Future Prospects
Cody Rhodes’ return to WWE has reignited interest in his career trajectory and the possibilities of what lies ahead. His storied history, which includes his departure and subsequent founding of AEW, has demonstrated his capacity to shape the wrestling industry in meaningful ways. Although it is too early to predict specific outcomes, it is certain that Cody’s WWE return will bring electrifying matches, intense storylines, and potential championship pursuits.
In conclusion, Cody Rhodes’ return to WWE has generated excitement and anticipation among wrestling fans, sparking a renewed interest in the sport. With his sights set on the WWE Championship and a burning desire to make an impact, the future looks promising for this talented athlete.
Promo Skills and Wrestling Style
Mic Work and Character Development
Cody Rhodes, known as the “American Nightmare,” is renowned for his outstanding promo skills and compelling character development. Throughout his career, he has showcased his ability to captivate audiences and communicate effectively. His promo style often incorporates stories of personal struggle and his journey in the wrestling world, drawing audiences in with authenticity and emotion.
Cody has mentioned in interviews that his father, Dusty Rhodes, had a significant influence on his promo style. Dusty used to teach promos at NXT, encouraging the importance of communication skills and effective storytelling. This teaching has clearly had an impact on Cody, as he continues to engage fans through character work and solid promo skills.
In-Ring Prowess and Signature Moves
When it comes to in-ring performance, Cody Rhodes boasts exceptional prowess and technique. Alongside his compelling mic work, Cody’s wrestling style combines a perfect mix of athleticism and storytelling. As a multi-talented wrestler, he has proven himself capable of adapting to various styles and opponents over the years to create engaging matches.
Some of Cody’s most notable signature moves include:
- Cross Rhodes: This finisher is an effective spinning facebuster, where Cody hooks his opponent’s arm and leg before slamming them face-first into the mat.
- Disaster Kick: A springboard roundhouse kick, often used as a surprise counter-attack to opponents coming off the ropes.
- Beautiful Disaster: A spinning enzuigiri that connects with the back of the opponent’s head and typically serves as a setup for Cross Rhodes.
As a versatile wrestler and exceptional promo artist, Cody Rhodes has remained an influential figure in the wrestling industry. His dedication to character development and in-ring capabilities keeps fans engaged and excited for what comes next in his already impressive career.
Media and Pop Culture Presence
Television Appearances
Cody Rhodes has successfully expanded his presence in media and pop culture over the years. He has appeared in various television shows, most notably in the popular series Arrow. In this show, he played the role of Derek Sampson, a villainous character who gains superhuman strength. Cody’s charisma and physical prowess made him a natural fit for the role.
In addition to acting, Cody has also been a part of reality TV, as a judge on the Go-Big Show, a talent competition series. His experience and knowledge as a professional wrestler gave him a unique perspective on judging various acts in this show.
Rhodes to the Top and Autobiography
Cody’s life, along with his wife Brandi Rhodes, their pets, and their soon-to-be-born daughter, has been the subject of a reality series titled Rhodes to the Top. The show aired on the TNT network, offering a glimpse into the personal and professional life of Cody Rhodes and his family. The series showcases their journey in the world of wrestling and gives fans a behind-the-scenes look at their daily lives.
In addition to his appearances on television, Cody Rhodes has penned an autobiography titled American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes ([source needed]). The book details his journey from the early days of his career to his current status in the wrestling world. It covers the challenges he has faced and the various milestones he has achieved. The autobiography also highlights his experiences growing up in a legendary wrestling family, with his father Dusty Rhodes and his older brother Dustin Rhodes.
Personal Life and Legacy
Family Background and Personal Achievements
Cody Rhodes, born June 30, 1985, hails from a prestigious wrestling family. He is the son of the late professional wrestling legend Dusty Rhodes and the brother of Dustin Rhodes, widely recognized by his ring name, Goldust. Born in Marietta, Georgia, Cody began wrestling at a young age, aspiring to follow in his father’s footsteps.
In his illustrious career, Cody has gained numerous accomplishments. One notable victory includes winning the Royal Rumble match in January 2023. Besides his success in WWE, Rhodes also made a significant impact in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) from 2019 to 2022. As an executive vice president at AEW, he became the inaugural and record-tying three-time AEW TNT Champion.
Influence in Professional Wrestling
Cody Rhodes’ influence in professional wrestling spreads across multiple promotions and extends to various aspects of the industry. As an executive vice president of AEW, he played a vital role in shaping the organization’s creative direction, focusing on engaging storylines and developing fresh talent.
Moreover, Cody’s work has also extended into the world of documentaries. The Peacock documentary, “American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes”, delves into Cody’s life story and his journey in and out of WWE.
Here’s a brief summary of Cody Rhodes’ accomplishments:
- WWE: Royal Rumble winner (2023)
- AEW: Inaugural and three-time AEW TNT Champion (2019-2022)
- Executive Vice President of AEW (2019-2022)
Overall, Cody Rhodes’ personal life and legacy showcase his relentless dedication to professional wrestling and his tenacity to keep challenging himself. As he continues to carve out his own legacy, he remains an essential figure in the industry, drawing from his family’s rich wrestling heritage to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Fan Engagement and Philanthropy
Cody Rhodes has always been a fan favorite, engaging with his fans and making his impact in the wrestling community through various philanthropic endeavors. His recent acts of kindness and fan interaction have elevated his status as a WWE superstar who values his supporters.
In one notable instance, Cody Rhodes made a wish come true for The Wrestling Club in New York City. He generously took care of their hotel accommodations and WrestleMania 40 tickets, allowing these passionate students to witness the event of a lifetime. This act of giving back demonstrates Cody’s commitment to his fans and the wrestling community.
When it comes to personal fan engagement, Rhodes does not shy away from unique requests. In January 2024, he accepted a fan’s request to be the best man at their wedding in March of the same year. This gesture reflects his willingness to connect with his fans on a deeply personal level, making their special moments even more memorable.
Cody Rhodes also makes it a point to correct past wrongs and recognize his fans’ long-standing loyalty. When a fan was denied a prize for a decade, Cody personally reached out, expressing his gratitude and offering them tickets to a WWE SmackDown event in April 2024, as well as additional gifts.
Throughout his career, Rhodes has been involved in numerous charity events and community involvement initiatives. His actions, such as providing hotel accommodations and tickets for The Wrestling Club members, showcase his dedication to giving back to the community that supports him.
All of these instances exemplify Cody Rhodes’ unwavering commitment to engaging with his fans, contributing to charitable causes, and promoting a strong sense of community among the wrestling enthusiasts. His philanthropic actions and close interaction with fans have cemented his reputation as a respected and cherished WWE superstar.
Industry Impact and Recognition
Accolades and Championships
Cody Rhodes, born June 30, 1985, in Marietta, Georgia, U.S., has had an impressive career with numerous championships and accolades to his name. As a testament to his tenacity and prowess as a competitor, Rhodes’ most notable achievements include winning the WWE Tag Team Championship and becoming the NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion. Furthermore, his return to WWE at WrestleMania 38 speaks volumes about his dedication and influence in the wrestling industry.
In addition to these prestigious titles, it’s worth mentioning that during his time in the WWE, Rhodes was involved in several high-profile feuds, one of which was with WWE veteran Hardcore Holly. Milestones such as these have helped cement Rhodes’ legacy.
Contributions to Wrestling Evolution
Rhodes has been recognized by various publications for his impact on the wrestling world. For example, Sports Illustrated acknowledged his work, admitting that wrestling has undergone significant evolution due to his contributions.
Beyond championship wins, Rhodes has also been instrumental in driving changes and setting new standards within the professional wrestling landscape. Fellow WWE superstar Kevin Owens has praised Rhodes for his part in “changing the industry.” In this light, it’s clear that Rhodes’ influence stretches beyond his own in-ring accomplishments.
Rhodes’ career trajectory and wrestling legacy showcase his ability to make a lasting impact, both as a talented competitor and as a change-maker in the professional wrestling industry.