In a world where professional wrestling legends often leave fans guessing about their future, Cody Rhodes has made a bold declaration: WWE is his home for life. But here's where it gets personal—Rhodes, the Undisputed WWE Champion and affectionately known as 'QB1,' is already planning his exit strategy, not from the ring entirely, but from the constant grind that comes with being a top star in the industry. During a recent appearance on the All The Smoke podcast, Rhodes opened up about his desire to follow in his father Dusty Rhodes' footsteps—not just as a wrestling icon, but as a devoted family man.
And this is the part most people miss: While many wrestlers focus solely on their in-ring legacy, Rhodes is thinking decades ahead, envisioning a life where he can be a full-time dad, just like Dusty was for him. 'You can only go so long,' Rhodes reflected, hinting at a retirement timeline that aligns with his family goals. He recalled how his father, after retiring from full-time wrestling at 45, became a pillar of support for his family, coaching football teams and earning the title of 'Coach' in Cobb County—a legacy Rhodes hopes to emulate.
With his eldest daughter Liberty at 4 and a new baby in the family, Rhodes is acutely aware of the passing of time. 'The next contract I sign with WWE is probably going to be my last,' he revealed, cementing his commitment to the company that 'built' and 'brought him back.' This statement comes at a time when wrestling veterans like John Cena, AJ Styles, and Hiroshi Tanahashi are stepping back from the spotlight, prompting fans and insiders alike to speculate about the future of the sport's biggest stars.
But here's where it gets controversial: While Rhodes' loyalty to WWE is clear, his past with AEW—the promotion he co-founded during his time away from WWE (2016-2022)—still lingers in the background. Rumors of resentment and hard feelings between Rhodes and AEW executives, particularly Tony Khan, have swirled, though details remain largely under wraps. Could this influence his final years in the ring? Or is WWE truly the only place he sees himself finishing his storied career?
As Rhodes navigates the balance between his in-ring legacy and his family life, one thing is certain: his journey will be one of the most watched in wrestling history. What do you think? Is Rhodes making the right call by prioritizing family over a longer in-ring career? And will WWE remain his final destination, or could there be another twist in this wrestling saga? Share your thoughts in the comments below and check out his full interview on All The Smoke for more insights into his future plans.
