| Real Name: | Teil Runnels |
| Birthday: | September 12, 1982 |
| Net Worth | N/A |
| Height: | 152 cm |
| Occupation: | Daughter of Dusty Rhodes, Sister of Dustin Rhodes and Cody Rhodes |
Teil Runnels is a prominent figure in the world of professional wrestling, primarily due to her family connections. She is the daughter of legendary wrestler Dusty Rhodes and the sister of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) star Cody Rhodes. Born in Austin, Texas, Teil is a proud US citizen who holds her family’s legacy in high regard. She is a devout Christian and her zodiac sign is Virgo.
Over the years, Teil has remained an ardent supporter of her brother Cody Rhodes, as he climbed the ranks and achieved fame in the world of professional wrestling. While the public may know her due to her relation to her famous family members, Teil maintains a strong bond with her relatives, cherishing each moment and always remaining by their side.
Her father, Dusty Rhodes, and brother, Cody Rhodes, have always been key players in the wrestling world, but Teil has managed to keep a relatively low profile, choosing to focus on her family life. Although her journey doesn’t always make headlines, her unwavering support and love towards her family members speak volumes about her character and her commitment to the Rhodes legacy.
Content Compass
Background and Early Life
Birth and Family
Teil Runnels was born on September 12, 1982, in Austin, Texas, United States. She is the daughter of the late Dusty Rhodes, a renowned American professional wrestler, booker, and trainer, and Michelle Rubio. Her full name is Teil Runnels Gergel. Teil has a younger brother, Cody Rhodes, who is also a wrestler, businessman, and actor. In addition, she has a half-brother named Dustin Rhodes from her father’s previous relationship.
Early Interest in Wrestling
Growing up in a family of wrestlers, it was only natural for Teil Runnels to develop an interest in the world of wrestling. She witnessed her father, Dusty Rhodes, contribute significantly to American wrestling history during his career. Teil’s early exposure to wrestling and the influence of her father and brothers played a crucial role in shaping the family’s legacy in the wrestling industry. Despite not becoming a wrestler herself, Teil maintains a strong connection with the sport, celebrating her family’s accomplishments and staying involved in the wrestling community.
While Teil Runnels’ personal and professional life remains private, she is often seen supporting her brother, Cody Rhodes, at wrestling events. The family’s passion for wrestling has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the sport, ensuring a lasting legacy that wrestling fans across generations can appreciate.
Professional Wrestling Career
Early Career
Teil Runnels, born on September 12, 1982, in Austin, Texas, is part of the renowned Runnels family. Her father, Dusty Rhodes (Virgil Riley Runnels Jr.), was a legendary professional wrestler known as “The American Dream.” He primarily worked in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), later renamed World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Dusty held the NWA World Heavyweight Championship multiple times and contributed significantly to the wrestling business as a booker and trainer.
WWE and WCW Tenure
Teil’s two brothers, Cody Rhodes (Cody Garrett Runnels Rhodes) and Dustin Rhodes, followed in their father’s footsteps, becoming successful professional wrestlers themselves. Cody began his career in WWE, while Dustin first gained fame in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) under the ring name Goldust. Later, Dustin would also join WWE, and the two brothers would compete alongside and against each other in various storylines and feuds.
Cody’s achievements in WWE include multiple championship reigns, while Dustin reached prominence as an enigmatic and outlandish character. Despite their individual success, both brothers left WWE to pursue opportunities elsewhere in the world of professional wrestling.
Return to WWE
Cody and Dustin have both made their returns to WWE at various points in their careers. Cody has transitioned back to the company after stints at Ring of Honor, New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and other organizations. Dustin has also found his way back to WWE, where he continued to showcase his wrestling abilities and remained an essential figure in the company’s sports entertainment programming.
AEW Involvement
In 2019, Cody and Dustin took part in the formation of the new wrestling promotion All Elite Wrestling (AEW), co-founded by Cody. The brothers have continued to build their legacies at AEW, with Cody serving as an executive vice president and becoming the inaugural and record-tying three-time AEW TNT Champion. Dustin, now wrestling under the moniker “The Natural,” has contributed his experience to the growing promotion, helping to shape the future of professional wrestling.
As Teil Runnels continues to be part of the illustrious Runnels family, her father Dusty’s impact on the industry and her brothers Cody and Dustin’s ongoing success in WWE and AEW speak to the family’s significant contributions to the world of professional wrestling.
Personal Life
Marriage and Relationships
Teil Runnels, daughter of the late Dusty Rhodes, is known for maintaining a relatively low profile compared to other members of her famous wrestling family. She is married to Kevin Gergel and the couple is known for their strong bond and unwavering support for one another. Kevin Gergel is often seen at public events and charity initiatives, such as the Dusty Rhodes Foundation, alongside Teil.
Children and Family Life
Teil and Kevin are proud parents of two children, a daughter named Maris, and a son named Kellan. The couple ensures that their children are kept away from the public eye to protect their privacy. Teil is also known to cherish her role as an aunt to her brother Cody Rhodes’ daughter, Kristin.
Teil has made it a priority to concentrate on her family life, striking a balance between her involvement with the Dusty Rhodes Foundation and her personal commitments as a wife, mother, and sister. As a part of the Rhodes family legacy, Teil continues to contribute positively to various charitable causes, honoring the memory of her father and supporting her brother’s wrestling career.
Teil and Kevin’s marriage serves as a testament to the power of a strong and supportive partnership. Their combined efforts to raise their children, contribute to their community, and maintain a close-knit family create a nurturing environment in which their family continues to thrive.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Non-Profit Work
Teil Runnels is notably involved in philanthropy through his work with the Dusty Rhodes Foundation. This non-profit organization focuses on supporting underserved communities by providing resources and opportunities to young people. A key aim of the foundation is to empower youth athletes, helping them achieve their full potential and reach their goals.
Through various programs and initiatives, the Dusty Rhodes Foundation offers:
- Financial assistance to deserving youth athletes
- Mentorship programs fostering personal growth and development
- Sports-based workshops, camps, and clinics
The foundation not only seeks to provide resources but also strives to create an environment that fosters lasting change and impact in the community.
Supporting Underserved Communities
The Dusty Rhodes Foundation is particularly committed to addressing the unique needs of underserved communities. By offering comprehensive support to these areas, the foundation endeavors to bridge the gap and reduce disparities between different socio-economic groups.
Some of the key initiatives undertaken by the foundation are:
- Encouraging and facilitating access to education for the youth within underserved communities.
- Developing skills training programs, enabling young people to improve their employment prospects and contribute positively to their communities.
- Organizing community events that promote cohesion, collaboration, and a sense of belonging.
Through Teil Runnels’ work with the Dusty Rhodes Foundation, he continually demonstrates the power of philanthropy and advocacy in creating tangible change for underserved communities and young athletes alike.
Legacy and Awards
Hall of Fame Inductions
Teil Runnels’ father, Dusty Rhodes, was an influential figure in the wrestling world and a true legend. Dusty’s contributions to the industry have been widely recognized, as he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007, and later, the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) Hall of Fame in 2011. His impact extended across the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW), leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Dusty Rhodes was well-respected by his peers and had received numerous accolades. In fact, he was honored by Bill Apter—the editor of several wrestling magazines—at the 2011 Cauliflower Alley Club reunion.
Continued Influence in Wrestling
Dusty Rhodes’ legacy continues to thrive in the wrestling world through his children, most notably Cody Rhodes and Goldust (born Dustin Runnels). Both have achieved incredible success in their wrestling careers:
- Cody Rhodes: A versatile and skilled wrestler, Cody has followed in his father’s footsteps, making a name for himself across various promotions, including WWE and All Elite Wrestling (AEW). He has held multiple championship titles and is considered one of the industry’s top talents.
- Goldust: Dustin has enjoyed a storied career in professional wrestling, with highlights such as his iconic and controversial character of Goldust and his multiple title reigns. Dustin has competed in WWE, WCW, and AEW.
The influence of Dusty Rhodes can also be seen in the recent documentary about Cody’s journey in the wrestling industry, released on the Peacock streaming platform called “American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes.” Featuring interviews with influential industry insiders, such as Jim Cornette from Sportskeeda Wrestling, the documentary sheds light on Dusty’s role in shaping the next generation of wrestling stars.
In conclusion, the legacy of Teil Runnels’ father, Dusty Rhodes, is secure as his life and work have impacted the wrestling world immensely. His Hall of Fame inductions stand as testament to his achievements, and his children, Cody and Dustin, continue to exemplify his values and passion for the sport.
Media and Appearances
Television and Film Projects
Although Teil Runnels Gergel is not primarily known for her presence in the limelight, she has occasionally appeared alongside her brother, Cody Rhodes, during his wrestling career. As the sister of a prominent figure in the wrestling industry, Teil has also made a few appearances on social media platforms, such as Twitter, where she shares her thoughts on wrestling-related topics.
Wrestling Video Games
As for wrestling video games, there hasn’t been any significant involvement of Teil Runnels Gergel. However, her brother, Cody Rhodes, has been featured in many popular wrestling video games, providing fans with the opportunity to play as their favorite wrestler.
Documentary Features
Teil Runnels Gergel gained notable attention through her appearance in the Peacock documentary, ‘American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes.’ The documentary offers an insight into the life of Cody Rhodes, previously known as Cody Runnels, and his journey within the world of sports entertainment. In the documentary, Teil shares her perspective on her brother’s success and the challenges he faced, including his struggle to move out of the mid-card during his first run with WWE from 2006-2016.
Some of the topics covered in the documentary include Cody Rhodes’ relationships with fellow wrestlers, such as D’Lo Brown and David Flair, as well as his time as the character Stardust. By providing personal anecdotes and insights, Teil Runnels contributes to a better understanding of the life and career of her brother, Cody Rhodes.
In conclusion, Teil Runnels Gergel’s media appearances are mostly linked to her brother’s wrestling career, and she has demonstrated support for him through various outlets, including social media and documentary features.
Teil Runnels in Popular Culture
Representation in Literature
Teil Runnels, sister of Cody Rhodes, a prominent wrestler known as the “American Nightmare,” has gained attention in popular culture due to her appearances in media related to sports entertainment. In the documentary “American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes,” premiered on Peacock, viewers get a glimpse into the life of Cody Rhodes and his family, including Teil. This documentary highlights the family’s dynamics, the dreams, and aspirations of the professional wrestler, creating a connection with the fans.
Impact on Professional Wrestling Fandom
Teil Runnels’ contribution to professional wrestling fandom has been primarily through her support for her brother, Cody Rhodes, and his journey in the world of sports entertainment. With her appearances in interviews and media events, Teil represents the Rhodes family and their dedication to wrestling. The Rhodes family, including Teil, has a long-standing influence on wrestling, as their father, Dusty Rhodes, also known as “The American Dream,” was a wrestling legend.
During an interview with Sportskeeda Wrestling, Teil shared her excitement and thoughts about her brother’s achievements and the involvement of other wrestling stars like The Young Bucks. Her candid discussions about the personal side of Cody’s life allow fans to see beyond the ring and into the relationships that shape their favorite wrestler. Furthermore, by shedding light on her family’s wrestling history and experiences, she helps to maintain the legacy of the legendary American Dream and its influence on current professional wrestling fandom.
Business Ventures and Projects
Wrestling Promotions Involvement
Teil Runnels, sister of well-known professional wrestlers Cody Rhodes and Dustin Rhodes, has explored ventures in the wrestling business herself. Her association with the wrestling industry is mainly seen through her brothers’ career and the family’s legacy in the sport. Cody Rhodes, a prominent figure in wrestling, co-founded the professional wrestling promotion, All Elite Wrestling (AEW). While it is unclear if Teil has any direct involvement in the management of AEW, she has publicly shared her excitement about the company’s success.
Teil’s connection to the wrestling industry is further solidified through her participation in wrestling-related documentaries. For example, she was interviewed in the Peacock documentary American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes, where she provided insight into her brother’s journey within the world of sports entertainment.
Other Business Endeavors
Apart from her indirect involvement in the wrestling business, Teil Runnels Gergel has focused on her personal life and family. Though specific details about her other business ventures are scarce, it is evident that Teil has made a name for herself as a prominent figure in the celebrity family member category.
Her academic background includes a college education, and she maintains a good reputation in the entertainment industry. Teil is recognized for her talent and professionalism both on and off the screen, as evidenced by her various appearances and interviews. With a height of 5 feet 6 inches and a weight of 65 kilograms, Teil’s physical attributes are often highlighted in discussions about her public persona.
In summary, Teil Runnels has navigated her way through various business ventures and projects connected to the wrestling world and beyond. Her experience and background have made her a respected figure in the entertainment industry, while also maintaining a strong connection with her family’s wrestling roots.
Recent News and Upcoming Events
Return to In-Ring Action
Teil Runnels, sister of wrestling superstar Cody Rhodes, has recently grabbed the attention of wrestling fans worldwide. Rumors suggest that Teil might be considering a return to WWE. While there has been no official confirmation from Teil herself, fans are eager to see if she steps back into the ring after her last appearance on November 1, 2008.
New Projects and Collaborations
Teil’s brother, Cody Rhodes, has had a successful journey in the world of sports entertainment, and part of his life was documented in Peacock’s American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes, which premiered on August 1, 2023. Teil has openly shared her support for her brother’s ventures and her entire family’s dedication to wrestling.
Recently, Cody Rhodes devoted his focus to All Elite Wrestling (AEW). With Teil’s potential return to WWE, fans are curious whether there will be a collaboration between WWE and AEW. Such a collaboration would create an exciting environment for wrestling enthusiasts.
Upcoming Events
Keep an eye out for the following events that involve the Rhodes family:
- WWE Live Event: A special event featuring the Rhodes family is scheduled for later this year. Details are yet to be released.
- Brandi Rhodes’ Debut: Brandi, Cody Rhodes’ wife, will make her in-ring debut in AEW later this year.
Stay tuned for more updates on Teil Runnels and the Rhodes family as they continue to make a significant impact in the world of wrestling.
Contact and Social Media Presence
Official Channels
Teil Runnels maintains a presence on various social media platforms, allowing fans and followers to stay updated on her personal and professional life. Her main channels include Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. While specific follower counts and engagement rates are not available, it is evident that Teil is fairly active on social media, sharing content related to her family, career, and interests.
Fan Interaction
Teil Runnels values her fanbase and often communicates with them through her social media channels. Some ways she interacts with her fans include:
- Responding to comments: Teil takes the time to acknowledge and reply to fans’ comments on her social media posts, fostering a sense of connection and gratitude.
- Sharing interviews: Teil occasionally participates in interviews, such as the one with Sportskeeda Wrestling Senior Editor Bill Apter, where she discusses topics related to her family and career. These interviews provide her fanbase with insights and updates about her life.
- Posting updates: Teil frequently shares updates about her life, family, and activities on social media, giving her fans a glimpse into her daily experiences.
In summary, Teil Runnels’ contact and social media presence are characterized by her official channels on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, as well as her fan interactions through responding to comments, sharing interviews, and posting updates. With a confident, knowledgeable, neutral, and clear tone, Teil maintains an active and accessible presence for her fanbase while providing insights into her life.