Cody Rhodes has officially re-signed with WWE. The announcement came in unexpected fashion, with Rhodes seemingly letting the news slip during a podcast appearance before questioning whether he was even supposed to reveal it.
Speaking on the Flagrant podcast, Rhodes reflected on how his outlook on retirement has changed over the years. While he once had a specific age in mind for stepping away from the ring, watching people like Bobby Roode and Michael Hayes transition into behind-the-scenes roles made him realize he doesn’t necessarily have to leave wrestling altogether.
“I think I used to have a number in mind for when wrestling retirement would come, but the way I’ve really grown with the current regime at WWE—and there’s some unsung heroes too. Bobby Roode, for example, and him kind of growing into a role there as a big-time producer on big matches. Michael Hayes is still there doing the exact same thing, Mr. Hayes and all that. One thing I have learned from them is they never have really taken—they’ve never stepped back from it. They’ve stepped into different roles.”
That conversation then led to what appeared to be an accidental announcement. Rhodes paused to wonder whether he was allowed to say it before revealing that he had already signed a new WWE contract.
“So if I—potentially, forgive me if this is breaking news, and please edit it if I’m not allowed to share, which is fine—I just re-signed with WWE, so I’ll end my wrestling career—”
When one of the hosts questioned why he wouldn’t be able to announce his own contract, Rhodes admitted he wasn’t actually sure whether it had been made public yet.
“Why would I not be able to share that? I don’t know, actually. I feel like we were dealing with a lot of sensitive—but you were really good about—”
Rhodes then made it crystal clear that he plans to finish his in-ring career with WWE. At the same time, he explained that the company now gives him the flexibility to pursue projects outside wrestling without feeling like he has to leave WWE behind.
“No, but I’ll end my wrestling career with WWE. But also, my wrestling career with WWE might continue because we are now—I just spoke to The New York Times about this, and this was such a great moment to share this—we’re now able to go do this stuff.
So, say I do have another project. Say I got two other projects, whatever it may be. I’m able to take a step away, and I’m able to collaborate with WWE, and I’m able to come back home. I’m just saying I’m able to come back home. Whatever. I’m able to do it.”
While Cody had already made it clear earlier this year that he wanted his final contract to be with WWE, he has now taken things a step further by confirming that deal is already signed. Barring a major surprise, The American Nightmare has made it clear that he’ll finish his wrestling career where he believes he belongs.
What do you think of Cody Rhodes re-signing with WWE? Are you happy to see The American Nightmare planning to finish his career with the company? Let us know in the comments below.
This transcript was produced exclusively for Ringside News from the original recording. Republishing the transcription in full is prohibited. When using excerpts, provide prominent credit and a link to this article.
