The world of professional wrestling has seen many legendary rivalries and partnerships, but few have taken such different paths to success as **Jon Moxley** and **Cody Rhodes**. From their days in WWE to their current roles as top stars in different promotions, both men have redefined their careers and left an undeniable mark on the industry. Let’s take a deep dive into their journeys – **then vs. now**.
## **THEN: The WWE Years (2011-2019) 🏆**
### **Jon Moxley (Dean Ambrose) – The Lunatic Fringe**
Jon Moxley, formerly known as **Dean Ambrose** in WWE, made his main roster debut in 2012 as part of **The Shield**, alongside **Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins**. The faction quickly became one of the most dominant groups in WWE history. Ambrose was known for his chaotic energy, unpredictable nature, and never-say-die attitude.
– Became the **longest-reigning United States Champion** of the modern era at the time.
– Won multiple **Intercontinental Championships** and became **WWE Champion in 2016** after cashing in Money in the Bank.
– Had heated rivalries with Seth Rollins, AJ Styles, and Brock Lesnar.
However, by 2019, Ambrose felt creatively stifled in WWE. Tired of scripted promos and lackluster storylines, he decided to **leave WWE and reinvent himself**.
### **Cody Rhodes – The Underrated Talent Seeking Respect**
Cody Rhodes, the son of the legendary **Dusty Rhodes**, debuted in WWE in 2007. Despite being an incredibly skilled performer, Cody often found himself overshadowed by other stars.
– Formed **Legacy** with Randy Orton and Ted DiBiase Jr.
– Reinvented himself with the **Dashing Cody Rhodes** gimmick, showing his versatility.
– Held multiple **Tag Team Championships** and **Intercontinental Championships**.
– Later took on the **Stardust persona**, which many saw as a wasted opportunity for someone of his talent.
Frustrated with WWE’s creative direction and the limitations placed on him, Cody made the bold decision to **leave WWE in 2016** and forge his own path.
## **NOW: Two Men, Two Kingdoms 👑**
### **Jon Moxley – The Unhinged Warrior of AEW & NJPW**
After leaving WWE, **Jon Moxley** made one of the most shocking debuts in wrestling history at **AEW Double or Nothing 2019**, attacking Chris Jericho and Kenny Omega. From that moment, he became one of AEW’s biggest stars, bringing his raw, violent, and unfiltered style to the promotion.
– Became the **AEW World Champion** in 2020, carrying the company during the pandemic era.
– Competed in brutal, hardcore matches in **GCW and NJPW**, proving he was one of the toughest wrestlers alive.
– Joined the **Blackpool Combat Club** with Bryan Danielson, William Regal, and Claudio Castagnoli, adding a new layer to his persona.
– Continues to dominate as one of the most feared wrestlers in the industry.
Moxley is no longer a scripted character—he’s **the real, unfiltered version of himself** that fans always wanted to see.
### **Cody Rhodes – The Prodigal Son Returns to WWE**
Cody’s journey after leaving WWE took him across the world. He became a major player in **Ring of Honor, NJPW, and AEW**, helping **found AEW in 2019**. As one of AEW’s top stars, he won the **TNT Championship multiple times** and became the face of the brand’s early years.
However, in 2022, Cody shocked the world by leaving AEW and returning to **WWE at WrestleMania 38**, facing Seth Rollins in an unforgettable match. Since then:
– He won the **2023 Royal Rumble**, punching his ticket to WrestleMania.
– Fought **Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 39**, nearly winning the Undisputed WWE Championship.
– Finally **won the Undisputed WWE Championship**, fulfilling his family’s legacy and proving he is a top-tier main event star.
– Became the ultimate babyface, beloved by fans and carrying the company into a new era.
## **Who Had the Better Journey? 🔥**
Both **Moxley and Cody** took massive risks by leaving WWE and betting on themselves. **Moxley thrived as a no-rules fighter, embracing his hardcore roots, while Cody became the ultimate redemption story by returning to WWE as a megastar.**
Whether you prefer Moxley’s violent, unpredictable style or Cody’s emotional, story-driven rise, one thing is certain – **both men changed professional wrestling forever.**
Who do you think had the more legendary career? Let us know ⚡🏆🔥