Cody Rhodes Addresses WWE Leadership Void Left By John Cena

Cody Rhodes isn’t waiting for someone to hand him the keys to WWE’s locker room leadership — he’s taking responsibility in his own way, and he’s doing it through actions, not speeches.

During a recent appearance on Good Karma Wrestling with Jonathan Hood, Rhodes opened up about his evolving role in WWE, especially as veterans like John Cena move away from full-time competition. With Cena long viewed as the company’s cornerstone leader, his reduced presence has naturally left a gap — and Rhodes made it clear he understands the responsibility that comes with stepping into that space.

Rhodes explained that leadership isn’t something he tries to force through words. Instead, he focuses on showing others the standard through his own work ethic, preparation, and willingness to handle WWE’s demanding schedule.

“I think my style of leadership and management, if that's a word, is example. I think in the past when I've tried to talk it, it's different than when you do it.”

Rhodes pointed specifically to WWE’s intense WrestleMania media schedule as an opportunity to set the tone. Rather than simply encouraging talent to step up, he participates fully in the process to demonstrate what’s required at the top level.

“Like even being here and challenging our roster to go into the most aggressive press schedule for WrestleMania that we've ever had before and letting them understand the perspective of what we have in front of us. It's great to say it, but I'd actually rather do it.”

He made it clear that his goal isn’t to lecture younger stars, but to lead in a way that allows them to naturally absorb the lessons by watching his example. Rhodes specifically referenced rising talents and how he hopes they’ll grow without needing direct instruction.

“Everyone's a little different in terms of how they lead. And I hope that if you're Javon or if you're Trick, you never have to say, ‘Hey, I've been watching this guy and he does it,’ just as long as you're going out there and you're doing it.”

Rhodes also addressed the massive impact John Cena had as WWE’s locker room leader, acknowledging that his presence created a standard few could match. Still, Rhodes believes WWE’s future leadership is already developing within the current roster.

“And a great example of what John Cena did leaves a large void for that type of individual. But it doesn't have to be. There are many right there waiting in the wings who learned from him.”

While Rhodes expressed humility about his own position, he admitted he hopes the next generation can benefit from watching how he handles his responsibilities, even as WWE continues evolving.

“Hopefully, they can learn, if anything, from me. I would really appreciate it. And if not, there's other great leaders at WWE. But yeah, I think example more than kind of pounding your chest is the way to go.”

With Cena transitioning into a different phase of his career and WWE pushing forward with a new generation of stars, Rhodes appears determined to help guide the company into its next era. His approach reflects the mindset of a veteran who understands that leadership isn’t claimed — it’s earned through consistency, performance, and example.

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