Cody Rhodes has certainly carved out a successful career in professional wrestling, with a legacy that stretches from his time in WWE to his pivotal role in AEW. But even though he’s become a household name in his own right, Rhodes never forgets the wrestling legends who helped shape him. One of the biggest influences on his career was none other than Randy Orton. Cody recently made a statement that gives us a deeper insight into how Randy Orton’s mentorship played a crucial role in shaping him as a wrestler.
### Cody Rhodes on His Early Years in Wrestling
In a recent interview, Cody Rhodes opened up about his early days in the wrestling business, emphasizing that he was “a student of Randy Orton before anything else.” This powerful declaration highlights the respect and gratitude he has for Orton, who took him under his wing and showed him the ropes. For many, Randy Orton needs little introduction—he’s one of WWE’s most accomplished superstars and a multi-time World Champion. His experience and knowledge of the industry have influenced many wrestlers, with Cody Rhodes being one of the most notable examples.
### “I Was As Mean As They Can Get”
What makes Cody’s statement even more intriguing is his mention of how he was “as mean as they can get.” This isn’t just a figurative reference to his wrestling persona, but a glimpse into the intensity and toughness he developed under Orton’s guidance. Orton is known for his no-nonsense approach in the ring, and it’s clear that Cody Rhodes adopted a similar attitude early in his career. By learning from Orton’s brutal efficiency and ruthless style, Cody was able to elevate his own performance and develop into a competitor who was ready to take on the best in the business.
### Randy Orton’s Influence on Cody Rhodes’ Style
One of the key aspects of Cody Rhodes’ wrestling persona is his ability to adapt and evolve. Throughout his career, he’s shown an uncanny knack for blending various wrestling styles and making them his own. But none of this would have been possible without Orton’s influence. Randy Orton is known for his methodical, calculated wrestling style, often using his surroundings to his advantage. Cody Rhodes took these lessons and incorporated them into his own style, ensuring that his matches were not only physically intense but also psychologically sharp.
### The Importance of Mentorship in Wrestling
Mentorship is an essential part of professional wrestling, and Cody Rhodes is an excellent example of how valuable it can be. Randy Orton’s mentorship gave Cody Rhodes a firm foundation upon which he could build his career. Orton’s veteran insights helped Cody navigate the complexities of the wrestling world, from developing his character to honing his in-ring skills. But perhaps most importantly, Orton taught Cody that being “mean” in the ring isn’t about aggression for the sake of aggression—it’s about strategic thinking and showing no mercy to your opponents when it counts the most.
### Cody Rhodes: A Superstar in His Own Right
Though Cody Rhodes may have started as a student of Randy Orton, he’s since become a star in his own right. Whether it’s through his incredible matches in WWE or his groundbreaking work with AEW, Cody has proven that he’s more than just a protege—he’s a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional wrestling. His rivalry with some of the industry’s best, including the likes of Chris Jericho, Kenny Omega, and Seth Rollins, has further solidified his legacy. And even with his success, Cody continues to pay homage to the lessons he learned from his mentors.
### Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton’s Impact on Wrestling
Cody Rhodes’ candid reflection on his relationship with Randy Orton serves as a reminder of the importance of mentorship in professional wrestling. Orton’s guidance helped shape Cody into the wrestler he is today, instilling within him the toughness and attitude that make him one of the most formidable stars in the industry. As Cody continues to rise in popularity and influence, it’s clear that his time spent learning from Randy Orton was instrumental in his success. The legacy of mentorship between these two wrestlers will continue to inspire future generations of performers who hope to leave their own mark on the wrestling world.