Cody Rhodes, a name that resonates with wrestling fans around the globe, is known for his contributions to the industry and his relentless pursuit of excellence. His career has been nothing short of remarkable, marked by various achievements and a passion for wrestling that has captivated audiences. In this article, we will explore when Cody Rhodes started his career, tracing his journey from the early days to becoming a prominent figure in professional wrestling.
The world of professional wrestling is filled with stories of determination, perseverance, and talent, and Cody Rhodes embodies all these qualities. From his beginnings as the son of a wrestling legend to forging his own path in the squared circle, Cody's journey is inspiring. As we delve into the timeline of his career, we will highlight significant milestones and pivotal moments that shaped him into the star he is today.
Not only will this article provide insights into Cody Rhodes' early career, but it will also present a detailed account of his evolution as a wrestler. Through this exploration, we aim to offer fans and newcomers alike a comprehensive understanding of his contributions to the wrestling world and the impact he has made throughout his journey.
Table of Contents
- Early Life and Background
- Cody's Wrestling Debut
- Cody Rhodes' WWE Career
- Time on the Independent Circuit
- Return to WWE
- All Elite Wrestling (AEW)
- Personal Life
- Cody Rhodes’ Legacy in Wrestling
Early Life and Background
Cody Rhodes was born on June 30, 1985, in Marietta, Georgia. He is the son of legendary wrestler Dusty Rhodes and his wife, Michelle. Growing up in a wrestling family, Cody was exposed to the industry from a young age. His father’s influence played a significant role in shaping his aspirations and passion for wrestling.
Family Influence
Dusty Rhodes, known as “The American Dream,” was a pivotal figure in professional wrestling, renowned for his charisma and storytelling ability. Cody's upbringing in such an environment instilled in him a love for the craft and a desire to follow in his father's footsteps. He often attended wrestling events with his family, where he developed a deep appreciation for the sport.
Education
Cody attended Lassiter High School and later pursued a degree in communications at the University of Georgia. While studying, he continued to train and prepare for a career in wrestling, balancing academics and his passion for the sport.
Cody's Wrestling Debut
Cody Rhodes made his professional wrestling debut in 2006. After training with various wrestling schools, including Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), he was ready to step into the ring. His first match took place on June 14, 2006, under the ring name “Cody Runnels,” which was a nod to his family name.
Initial Matches
During his early wrestling career, Cody participated in several independent promotions, gaining valuable experience and honing his skills. His dedication and hard work quickly caught the attention of larger wrestling organizations.
Cody Rhodes' WWE Career
In 2007, Cody Rhodes signed a developmental contract with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), leading to his rise in the professional wrestling world. He made his official WWE debut on the June 26, 2007, episode of “SmackDown!” where he teamed up with Hardcore Holly.
Championships and Achievements
- WWE Tag Team Champion (with Ted DiBiase)
- Intercontinental Champion
- WWE SmackDown Money in the Bank Winner (2013)
Cody's time in WWE was marked by significant achievements and memorable storylines, showcasing his ability to connect with fans and deliver compelling performances.
Time on the Independent Circuit
After leaving WWE in 2016, Cody Rhodes embarked on a journey through the independent circuit, where he quickly established himself as a prominent figure. His time away from WWE allowed him to reinvent himself and explore different wrestling styles.
Key Promotions
During his time on the independent circuit, Cody wrestled for various promotions, including:
- Ring of Honor (ROH)
- New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW)
- Impact Wrestling
Cody's performances in these promotions garnered him critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and talented wrestler.
Return to WWE
In 2018, Cody Rhodes made his highly anticipated return to WWE. His comeback was met with enthusiasm from fans and marked a new chapter in his career. He quickly re-established himself as a top talent, competing in high-profile matches and storylines.
Memorable Moments
Some of the memorable moments from Cody's return to WWE include:
- Competing in the Royal Rumble
- Engaging in rivalries with top WWE stars
- Participating in major pay-per-view events
Cody’s return showcased his growth as a performer and his unwavering commitment to the wrestling industry.
All Elite Wrestling (AEW)
In 2019, Cody Rhodes co-founded All Elite Wrestling (AEW), a promotion that aimed to provide an alternative to traditional wrestling organizations. AEW quickly gained popularity, drawing attention from fans and critics alike.
Impact on the Wrestling Industry
As a key figure in AEW, Cody played a significant role in shaping the promotion's identity and direction. His involvement in AEW has led to:
- Innovative storylines
- High-quality wrestling matches
- A platform for new talent
Cody's contributions to AEW have made him a respected leader in the wrestling community, further solidifying his legacy.
Personal Life
Cody Rhodes married fellow wrestler Brandi Reed in 2013, and the couple has since welcomed a daughter, Liberty Iris Rhodes. Cody often shares glimpses of his family life on social media, showcasing his dedication to both his career and his loved ones.
Advocacy and Philanthropy
Beyond wrestling, Cody is actively involved in various charitable initiatives. He advocates for mental health awareness and participates in community outreach programs, using his platform to make a positive impact.
Cody Rhodes’ Legacy in Wrestling
Cody Rhodes' journey from a wrestling legacy to a star in his own right is a testament to his talent, determination, and passion for the sport. His contributions to wrestling, both in WWE and AEW, have left an indelible mark on the industry.
Influence on Future Generations
Cody's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring wrestlers, demonstrating that with hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve their dreams. His commitment to excellence and willingness to take risks have set a standard for future generations in the wrestling world.
Conclusion
In summary, Cody Rhodes began his career in 2006, and since then, he has made significant strides in the wrestling industry. From his early days to his rise in WWE and his role in founding AEW, Cody's journey is a remarkable story of resilience and passion. We encourage you to share your thoughts on Cody's career in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out other articles on our site for more wrestling insights!
Final Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to explore the career of Cody Rhodes with us. We hope you found this article informative and engaging. Be sure to return for more captivating stories and updates from the world of professional wrestling!
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