BY SACNILK
Since Cody Rhodes's return to the WWE, he has risen to become one of the most beloved and celebrated wrestlers worldwide, truly earning the status of a superstar within the company. ##
His first departure from WWE was in 2016, and it was only after playing a significant role in founding All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and building a formidable reputation outside of WWE that he made his triumphant return. ##
When he initially joined AEW, he faced some challenges with the fanbase, but eventually, he decided to come back to WWE, receiving an overwhelmingly positive reception at WrestleMania 38. ##
From that point onward, his career soared to new heights. Despite a setback due to an injury that sidelined him for half a year, Cody Rhodes persevered and achieved remarkable success, winning the Royal Rumble and headlining WrestleMania in his first year back. This elevated his fame even beyond that of his legendary father, Dusty Rhodes, within the WWE. ##
Here are my picks for Cody Rhodes' top 10 matches of all time: ##
1. Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins - Hell in a Cell 2022
Seth "Freakin" Rollins exuded unshakable confidence as he stepped into the Hell in a Cell Match, having already experienced four intense encounters in this unforgiving steel enclosure. On the other hand, it was Cody Rhodes' debut within the intimidating structure, making the situation even more challenging for him. To compound his difficulties, during the Hell in a Cell Kickoff, it was revealed that Rhodes had suffered a devastating injury while weight training – his right pectoral tendon had completely torn off the bone. ##
Rhodes was showered with a standing ovation after the match, as the WWE Universe witnessed an awe-inspiring display of tenacity and determination within the Hell in a Cell. ##
2. Cody Rhodes vs. Dustin Rhodes - AEW Double or Nothing 2019
The match had minimal build-up, primarily consisting of a brief video package featuring interviews from both competitors. It was presented as a family rivalry, although the underlying motive seemed more focused on determining the superior wrestler rather than harboring genuine animosity.##
The Double or Nothing 2019 match followed a deliberate and classic style, prioritizing compelling storytelling over flashy maneuvers. This unique approach set it apart from other matches on the show.##
Throughout the intense encounter, there were heartfelt nods to their late father, the legendary Dusty Rhodes, and the ring saw a significant amount of bloodshed, adding to the dramatic spectacle. Cody relentlessly pursued the victory, attempting to vanquish the veteran gunslinger once and for all. His quest for triumph held personal significance, not just for his family but also for his self-validation. ##
The match garnered widespread acclaim and received a prestigious five-star rating from Dave Meltzer. ##
3. Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins - WrestleMania 38
Unpredictably, the Visionary failed to foresee the return of Cody Rhodes, leaving Seth "Freakin" Rollins both stunned and determined as the former two-time Intercontinental Champion made his remarkable comeback to a WWE ring after a six-year absence. "The American Nightmare" seamlessly fit back into the action, engaging in a methodical and technical exchange with Rollins during the opening minutes of the match. ##
Rhodes attempted a daring crossbody off the top rope, but Rollins expertly intercepted him mid-air with a rib-crushing dropkick, exploiting Rhodes' vulnerable midsection. Nevertheless, Rhodes displayed resilience, executing a spectacular dive through the ropes that sent Rollins flying over the announce table. Back in the ring, he followed up with an impressive crossbody, nearly securing a victory.##
Rollins, however, retaliated by hurling Rhodes into the barricade with a powerful Buckle Bomb, followed by a punishing Falcon Arrow, pushing Rhodes to the brink. In a tense moment, Rollins prepared to deliver his signature stomp, but Rhodes skillfully evaded him twice, taking Rollins by surprise with a sudden Cross Rhodes for another astonishingly close nearfall. ##
As the intensity escalated, both Superstars pulled out all the stops, exchanging knockout blows that left the WWE Universe in awe, wondering what it would take to determine the winner of this fierce contest. Despite surviving a Pedigree from Rollins, Rhodes unleashed consecutive devastating Cross Rhodes maneuvers, paying tribute to his late father with a Bionic Elbow, and then sealing the deal with a third Cross Rhodes to secure the victory in his long-awaited return match to WWE. ##
4. Cody Rhodes vs Nick Aldis – NWA 70th Anniversary Show
The match was a true clash of generations, as the young upstart Cody Rhodes took on the veteran Nick Aldis. Rhodes was inspired by the legends of the past, and he paid tribute to them throughout the match. He used Dusty Rhodes' signature moves, he wore a Dustin Rhodes-inspired mask, and he even hit Aldis with a Randy Orton RKO. ##
Aldis was no slouch, however. He is a master of the old-school style, and he brought his own brand of intensity to the match. He hit Rhodes with a variety of power moves, and he even busted him open with a stiff forearm shot. ##
The match went the full three falls, and it was a back-and-forth battle the entire time. In the end, it was Rhodes who came out on top, but it was a hard-fought victory. The match was a fitting tribute to the history of the NWA, and it was a true classic. ##
5. Cody Rhodes Vs Rey Mysterio – WrestleMania XXVII
Cody Rhodes faced off against Rey Mysterio, who made a spectacular entrance dressed as the beloved Captain America. Initially, Rhodes took charge and controlled much of the match, but Mysterio skillfully turned the tide later on. The climax of the contest featured Mysterio cleverly unmasking Rhodes and delivering a series of headbutts. ##
However, Rhodes showed remarkable resilience by countering with a swift removal of Mysterio's knee brace. As the high-flying Rey attempted a daring dive, Rhodes cunningly incapacitated him with the knee brace, setting up the perfect opportunity to execute his signature move, the Cross Rhodes, and secure a triumphant victory. ##
6. Cody Rhodes Vs. Seth Rollins – WrestleMania Backlash 2022
Continuing his winning streak, Cody Rhodes achieved another remarkable triumph over Seth Rollins at WrestleMania Backlash on Sunday. ##
Following an intense and captivating showdown, The American Nightmare emerged victorious by expertly thwarting Rollins' roll-up attempt and responding with a clever grip on the tights, securing the winning pinfall. ##
7. Cody Rhodes Vs. Sammy Guevara – AEW Beach Break 2022
One of the most exceptional bouts in Cody Rhodes' career occurred during a thrilling ladder match against Sammy Guevara for the coveted TNT Championship. This monumental event took place on the January 26, 2022 edition of AEW Dynamite, marking the first-ever one-on-one ladder match in AEW history with the prestigious TNT title at stake. ##
Earlier, Sammy Guevara had triumphed over Cody's brother, Dustin Rhodes, the previous week, securing the interim TNT Champion title when Cody unfortunately missed the show due to COVID. As a result, a highly anticipated unification ladder match was scheduled for the following week. ##
A standout moment in the contest was when Sammy Guevara showcased his incredible athleticism, launching himself from the top rope onto a ladder and swiftly executing a mesmerizing diving cutter from an astonishing 15 feet above the ground, stunningly connecting with Cody Rhodes. ##
8. Cody Rhodes Vs Kurt Angle (WCPW True Legacy 2016)
In front of a jam-packed Altrincham Ice Dome in Greater Manchester, Rhodes and Angle put on a captivating contest, seamlessly blending various wrestling styles. The match took a while to officially kick off, but the crowd cheered loudly as the two competitors, along with referee Steve Lynskey, entertained with an impromptu cartwheel display. Angle, the Olympic gold medallist, focused on targeting Rhodes' ankle, and his strategy proved effective as Rhodes eventually succumbed to the Ankle Lock and tapped out after a thrilling 12-minute bout. ##
This wasn't the first time these two met, though. They had a prior encounter in August at Northeast Wrestling's Wrestling Under the Stars 5 event, with Cody emerging victorious in their inaugural clash. Their third match took place inside a steel cage at the 21st Wrestlefest event, which turned out to be Angle's final indie match before his return to WWE. Once again, Cody Rhodes triumphed in a hard-fought 12-minute battle. ##
Cody and Angle pleasantly surprised many fans, including myself, with their WCPW showdown. Despite sharing some similarities in their in-ring styles, such as both executing a graceful top-rope Moonsault, their chemistry together was truly remarkable. ##
9. Cody Rhodes Vs. Kenny Omega Vs. Kota Ibushi – NJPW King Of Pro-Wrestling 2018
The triple threat match between Kenny Omega, Kota Ibushi, and Cody Rhodes at NJPW King of Pro-Wrestling 2018 was a truly unique event. Not only was it one of only twelve triple threat matches in NJPW history, but it was also a clash of three of the greatest wrestlers in the world. ##
10. Cody Rhodes Vs. Brodie Lee – AEW Dynamite Chris Jericho 30th Anniversary Celebration
Following his dominant victory over Rhodes, Brodie Lee stepped up to face challengers like Dustin Rhodes and Orange Cassidy in defense of his hard-won TNT Championship. During Rhodes' absence, Lee's title reign showcased his prowess as a formidable champion. ##
A particularly memorable and historic moment during this period was the first-ever Dog Collar Match in AEW history, drawing inspiration from the legendary Greg Valentine vs. Roddy Piper clash at Starrcade in 1983. This unique contest was a testament to Rhodes' admiration for old-school wrestling and his desire to pay homage to iconic figures like his father, Dusty Rhodes, who left a lasting legacy in the sport. ##
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