Early Years (2006-2016):
Trained by his father, the legendary Dusty Rhodes, Cody entered WWE's developmental territory in 2006.He quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his in-ring skills and charisma.Teaming with various partners, Cody became a prolific tag team wrestler, capturing eight world tag team championships.Despite his tag team success, Cody struggled to gain traction as a singles competitor.In 2013, he received a push as Stardust, a flamboyant character modeled after his half-brother Goldust. However, the gimmick wasn't well-received, and Cody requested his release in 2016.
Departure and Reinvention (2016-2022):
Seeking creative freedom, Cody left WWE and embarked on a journey that would redefine his career.He wrestled for various promotions worldwide, including NJPW and ROH, where he won prestigious championships and honed his craft.Along with other wrestlers, Cody co-founded All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in 2019, becoming an EVP and a top star.In AEW, Cody won the inaugural AEW TNT Championship three times, establishing himself as a major force in wrestling.
The Prodigal Son Returns (2022):
After years of speculation, Cody returned to WWE at WrestleMania 38 in a shocking moment.The crowd erupted as he defeated Seth Rollins in a memorable match, marking a triumphant homecoming.
Road to WrestleMania (2022-2024):
Cody's return was met with immense fan support. He delivered captivating promos and consistently impressed in high-profile matches.His rivalry with Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship became a major storyline.Despite a valiant effort at WrestleMania 39, Cody fell short against the dominant Roman Reigns.
Victory at WrestleMania 40 (2024):
In a highly anticipated rematch at WrestleMania 40, Cody finally dethroned Roman Reigns.The emotional victory capped off a long and arduous journey, fulfilling his dream and his family's legacy.
What's Next for WWE under Cody's Reign?
With Cody Rhodes as champion, WWE is poised for a new era. Here are some potential directions:
Fresh Matchups: Fans can expect exciting dream matches between Cody and rising stars, or rematches with old rivals.
Focus on In-Ring Competition: Cody's emphasis on athleticism could lead to a renewed focus on high-quality wrestling matches.
Innovative Ideas: Cody is known for his creative mind, and he may introduce new concepts to enhance the WWE product.
Elevating Younger Talent: Cody's experience and leadership could be instrumental in pushing the next generation of WWE superstars.
