Since Cody Rhodes’ return to WWE in 2022, he has enjoyed a remarkable run, positioning himself as the company’s top babyface.
Although he hasn’t claimed a singles world championship in the past two years, The American Nightmare has garnered immense popularity, showcasing his main-event caliber.
Rhodes owes his enduring fan-favorite status not only to the promotion, his peers, and his own talent but also to the support of wrestling legends. Endorsements from established megastars play a crucial role in affirming a current competitor’s credibility to the audience.
Several legends have publicly endorsed Cody Rhodes, contributing to his rise. Here are four notable endorsements from legends:
1. Diamond Dallas Page praised Cody Rhodes at the Royal Rumble 2024 press conference
WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page, who shares a special connection with the Rhodes family, particularly Dusty Rhodes, praised Cody at the Royal Rumble 2024 press conference.
WWE Hall of Famer @RealDDP asks the 2024 Men's #RoyalRumble Match Winner a question and shares a special, emotional moment with @CodyRhodes. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/nJzXkAdm67
— WWE (@WWE) January 28, 2024
Having witnessed Cody’s early years in the industry, Page expressed his unwavering belief in The American Nightmare, creating a heartwarming full-circle moment.
2. CM Punk urged Cody Rhodes to “finish the story” after injury halted his own quest
In a backstage clip from WWE’s official account, CM Punk, a 6-time World Champion, hugged Cody Rhodes and emotionally encouraged him to “finish your story” after Punk’s own journey was interrupted by injury.
This endorsement added to the overwhelming support for Cody to challenge Roman Reigns.
Fun fact: Brock Lesnar broke character here. He wasn’t supposed to do this. Brock went off script just to put Cody over.
Legendary. https://t.co/VzxktflRNw
— 🍉𝐍𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐒𝐊𝐘🍉 (@LegacysKingdom) September 16, 2023
3. Brock Lesnar endorsed Cody Rhodes at WWE Summerslam 2023
Following a fierce rivalry in 2023, Brock Lesnar endorsed Cody Rhodes after their final match at Summerslam. Despite their intense feud, Lesnar broke character to raise Cody’s hand, earning both men respect and admiration.
4. John Cena endorsed The American Nightmare on WWE RAW
On the March 6, 2023, episode of RAW, John Cena, recognizing Cody Rhodes’ worthiness, introduced him to the audience. Cena raised Cody’s hand, symbolically passing the torch to The American Nightmare, aligning him as a representative ready for the WrestleMania stage.
