Dustin Rhodes Details His Darkest Days: “I Had Guns to My Head and Didn’t Care”

AEW star Dustin Rhodes is getting real about his darkest days, revealing the depths of his addiction and how he fought his way back to sobriety.

In an emotional message to fans on Twitter/X, Rhodes detailed his struggles between 2000 and 2008, admitting he was a severe drug addict and alcoholic who lost everything.

“I neglected my daughter, my family, and everyone around me. I didn’t care nor think I had a problem. I pawned everything I owned,” he wrote, recalling a time when he had multiple doctors and drug dealers at his disposal.

His rock bottom came after a three-day bender when his body started to shut down. “My heart was hurting, I couldn’t move. I have had guns to my head on several occasions and didn’t care about my life or anyone’s,” he admitted.

That night, Rhodes says he had a spiritual awakening, claiming God told him, “Dustin, you have had enough.” Desperate for help, he asked his wife to help him call his father, WWE Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes, using a prepaid phone that only worked on a hill near their home. “I couldn’t walk, so I crawled. Pouring rain, 3:00 in the morning, I called my dad, crying, telling him I needed help.”

By the next day, WWE’s wellness department stepped in and got him to rehab. At the time, Rhodes was consuming 50-70 pills a day, half a gallon of vodka daily, and an 8-ball of cocaine every two days. He spent eight days in detox before completing 30 days in rehab—and he never looked back.

“I went to NA/AA meetings every day for two years straight and worked my program to the bone to stay clean and sober,” he shared.

Now, nearly 17 years sober, Rhodes says his faith in God saved him and refuses to let his past demons drag him back. “F* the devil that sits on my shoulder wanting me to walk with him. I will not!!! I have gotten everything back I had lost and more, because of God.”**

He ended his message with encouragement for those still struggling: “If you are going through something similar, reach out to God, seek help and get it. Don’t be a statistic in this world. Live!!!”

Rhodes’ story is a raw reminder of how dark things can get—but also how redemption is possible with the right support and determination. From the brink of death to nearly 17 years sober, he’s proof that second chances exist, and he’s not taking his for granted. Whether it’s faith, family, or sheer willpower, his journey shows that no matter how far someone falls, there’s always a way back.

What do you think about Dustin’s powerful story? Do you think more wrestlers should open up about their struggles? Drop your thoughts in the comments!