Cody Rhodes, whose real name is Cody Garrett Runnels, is a professional wrestler and actor widely recognized for his work in various wrestling promotions, including WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment), AEW (All Elite Wrestling), and other independent circuits.
Cody Rhodes was born on June 30, 1985, into a family deeply rooted in professional wrestling. He is the son of the legendary Dusty Rhodes (“The American Dream”) and the half-brother of Dustin Runnels, known in WWE as Goldust.
Cody Rhodes: A Biography
Full Name: Cody Garrett Runnels Rhodes
Ring Name: Cody Rhodes, also known as “The American Nightmare”
Date of Birth: June 30, 1985
Place of Birth: Marietta, Georgia, USA
Height: 6 ft 1 in (185 cm)
Weight: 220 lb (100 kg)
Early Life and Background:
Cody Rhodes was born to one of the most illustrious wrestling families in history. His father, “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes (Virgil Riley Runnels, Jr.), was a WWE Hall of Famer and one of the most influential wrestlers of all time. His older half-brother, Dustin Rhodes, is also a well-known professional wrestler, best known for his character Goldust.
Cody attended Lassiter High School, where he had a successful wrestling career, winning several championships. Post-high school, he briefly considered pursuing a college wrestling career before deciding to follow in his father’s footsteps and enter the world of professional wrestling.
Professional Wrestling Career:
WWE (2006–2016):
Cody debuted in WWE’s developmental territory Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) in 2006, quickly rising through the ranks. He made his main roster debut in July 2007. Over the next several years, Cody would capture various titles, including the WWE Intercontinental Championship and the WWE Tag Team Championship (with partners like Hardcore Holly and Drew McIntyre).
Cody was part of multiple storylines and factions during his WWE tenure, including Legacy (with Randy Orton and Ted DiBiase Jr.) and “The Uprising” phase as Stardust, a character mirroring his brother’s Goldust persona.
Independent Circuit and NJPW/ROH (2016–2019):
Disillusioned with his creative direction in WWE, Cody asked for and was granted his release in 2016. He then embarked on a remarkably successful run on the independent circuit. Highlights included winning the ROH World Championship, the NWA World Heavyweight Championship, and competing for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and various independent promotions.
All Elite Wrestling (AEW):
In January 2019, Cody, along with wrestlers The Young Bucks, Kenny Omega, and entrepreneur Tony Khan, founded All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Cody served as an Executive Vice President and was one of the primary faces of the company. In AEW, he continued to wrestle at a high level, engaging in memorable feuds and matches. Notably, he won the inaugural AEW TNT Championship.
Return to WWE (2022-Present):
In a surprising turn of events, Cody returned to WWE in 2022, making his re-debut at WrestleMania 38. He has since been involved in major storylines and championship pursuits.
Personal Life:
Cody is married to Brandi Rhodes, who is also a professional wrestler and television personality. The couple has been involved in various projects both within and outside the wrestling industry.
Legacy:
Cody Rhodes is widely respected for his versatility, in-ring skills, and ability to reinvent himself. His career trajectory has made him a standout figure in modern professional wrestling, and he continues to be a major influence in the industry
Departure from WWE:
Frustrated with his creative direction, Cody requested his release from WWE in 2016. After leaving WWE, he embarked on a highly successful independent wrestling career. He performed in various promotions including Ring of Honor (ROH), New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), and others.
Cody Rhodes age:
39 years
Cody Rhodes contract:
Cody Rhodes signed his latest contract with WWE in 2022, guaranteeing a base salary of $500,000.
Cody Rhodes championships:
Cody Rhodes, born Cody Garrett Runnels, is a professional wrestler who has competed in various wrestling promotions like WWE, AEW, and others. Over his career, he has held multiple championships. Here are some of the notable ones:
WWE:
1. WWE Intercontinental Championship: 2 times
2. World Tag Team Championship: 3 times (with Hardcore Holly once and with Ted DiBiase Jr. twice)
3. WWE Tag Team Championship: 3 times (with Drew McIntyre once and with Goldust twice)
4. 2023 Men’s Royal Rumble Winner
5. WWE Universal Championship: (1 time, current)
AEW (All Elite Wrestling)
1. AEW TNT Championship: 3 times
NWA (National Wrestling Alliance)
1. NWA World Heavyweight Championship: 1 time
ROH (Ring of Honor)
1.ROH World Championship: 1 time
2. ROH World Six-Man Tag Team Championship: 1 time (with The Young Bucks)
NJPW (New Japan Pro-Wrestling)
1. IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship: 1 time
Other Notable Independent Championships:
1. GWF Tag Team Championship: 1 time (with Doug Gilbert)
2. HOG Heavyweight Championship: 1 time
Cody Rhodes has had a remarkable career, and his achievements span various organizations, highlighting his versatility and talent in professional wrestling.
Cody Rhodes debut WWE:
The American Nightmare completed his tale 17 years after his official WWE debut. He first appeared on WWE RAW on July 2, 2007 as Rhodes.
Cody Rhodes defeated Roman reigns:
Cody Rhodes finally beat Roman Reigns at WWE WrestleMania 40 Cody Rhodes defeated Roman Reigns, securing the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship
Cody Rhodes ethnicity:
He is of Caucasian descent from his father’s side and Spanish-Cuban descent from his mother’s side.
Cody Rhodes first wife:
Brandi Rhodes
Cody Rhodes girlfriend:
Brandi Alexis Runnels
Cody Rhodes Instagram:
Cody Rhodes (@americannightmarecody)
Cody Rhodes kids:
Cody Rhodes has three children with his wife Brandi Rhodes: two daughters, Liberty Iris Runnels and Leona Rose Runnels, and a son, Rhodes Runnels.
Cody Rhodes King of the Ring:
Cody Rhodes defeated Logan Paul at WWE King and Queen of the Ring 2024 to retain the Universal Championship in an instant classic.
Cody Rhodes net worth:
Cody Rhodes net worth is estimated to be around $8 million as of 2024.
Cody Rhodes next opponent:
Solo Sikoa is set to challenge Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Cody Rhodes zodiac sign:
Cancer
