For decades, the Rhodes family name has been synonymous with professional wrestling. From the legendary “American Dream” Dusty Rhodes to the current torchbearer, Cody Rhodes, this wrestling dynasty has captivated fans across generations. However, with Cody’s meteoric rise in WWE, the question now looms: Is Cody Rhodes about to surpass his legendary bloodline?
#### **The Legacy of Dusty Rhodes: The American Dream Lives On**
Dusty Rhodes was a man of the people. With his charisma, unmatched storytelling, and ability to connect with audiences, he became one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time. His iconic feuds with Ric Flair, Harley Race, and The Four Horsemen helped shape the golden era of wrestling. Dusty was a three-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion and a visionary behind some of the greatest matches and moments in wrestling history.
But Dusty’s legacy wasn’t just about his in-ring work. He was an exceptional mentor, helping shape the careers of future superstars as a key figure in WWE’s developmental system. Many of today’s top talents, including Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, and Becky Lynch, have credited Dusty with playing a crucial role in their success.
Cody Rhodes grew up in the shadow of his father’s greatness, watching Dusty pave the way for what wrestling could be. However, instead of trying to replicate his father’s career, Cody sought to carve his own path.
#### **Cody Rhodes’ Journey – From Stardust to The American Nightmare**
Cody’s journey in professional wrestling hasn’t been an easy one. Despite being Dusty Rhodes’ son, he had to fight for his own identity. After debuting in WWE in 2007, Cody showed promise as an in-ring performer, capturing the Intercontinental Championship and multiple tag team titles. However, his career hit a stumbling block when he was rebranded as “Stardust” – a character meant to mirror Goldust’s persona.
Frustrated with his creative direction, Cody made a bold decision in 2016: he left WWE to bet on himself. This move would prove to be the turning point of his career.
#### **Betting on Himself – Cody’s Impact on AEW and Beyond**
After leaving WWE, Cody embarked on a journey that would reshape professional wrestling. He joined independent promotions such as Ring of Honor (ROH), New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), and eventually became a key figure in launching All Elite Wrestling (AEW).
In AEW, Cody not only became one of the company’s top stars but also helped build an alternative to WWE, giving wrestlers and fans more options in the industry. His rivalries with Chris Jericho, MJF, and Brodie Lee showcased his storytelling abilities and helped elevate AEW to mainstream success.
However, despite his impact on AEW, Cody shocked the wrestling world in 2022 by announcing his return to WWE. This move signified unfinished business—he wanted to cement his legacy in the company where he first started.
#### **Cody Rhodes’ WWE Return – The Road to Immortality**
Cody’s return to WWE at WrestleMania 38 was one of the most talked-about moments in wrestling history. Answering Seth Rollins’ open challenge, Cody made an emphatic statement with an unforgettable match that reintroduced him as “The American Nightmare.” His performance that night, coupled with his emotional promo about finishing the story, set the stage for his ultimate goal: winning the WWE Championship.
However, his journey back to WWE wasn’t without obstacles. A torn pectoral muscle forced him out of action for months, but his triumphant return at the Royal Rumble in 2023 proved that his determination was stronger than ever.
Fast forward to WrestleMania 40—Cody once again found himself face-to-face with Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. The storyline surrounding this match was deeply personal, drawing parallels between Dusty’s past and Cody’s present. Would he be able to do what his father never could? Would Cody finally “finish the story” and become the WWE Champion?
#### **The Rhodes Family Comparison – Who Will Be the Greatest?**
Comparing Dusty Rhodes and Cody Rhodes is like comparing two different eras of wrestling. Dusty was a trailblazer in a time when wrestling was more about larger-than-life personas and compelling promos. His feuds, his work ethic, and his ability to connect with the audience made him an all-time great.
Cody, on the other hand, has thrived in a modern wrestling landscape that demands both in-ring excellence and storytelling depth. He has wrestled across multiple promotions, reinvented himself multiple times, and helped shape the industry beyond just his own career.
#### **Can Cody Surpass His Father’s Legacy?**
Cody’s achievements are remarkable, but surpassing Dusty’s legacy is no easy feat. Dusty’s influence on wrestling spans decades, touching multiple generations of wrestlers and fans. However, Cody has something Dusty never had—the chance to become WWE’s top champion.
If Cody can win the Undisputed WWE Championship and solidify himself as the face of the company, he will have achieved something his father never did. In doing so, he won’t just be carrying on the Rhodes legacy—he will be redefining it.
The wrestling world is watching closely. Cody Rhodes is at the peak of his career, and the question remains: will he rise above the legendary shadow of his father and cement himself as the greatest Rhodes in wrestling history?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—Cody Rhodes is a man on a mission, and he won’t stop until he finishes the story.