By: Victoria Autocunas
February 2026
Wrestler Cody Rhodes. (Image source: IMDb)
The American Nightmare, Cody Rhodes, is known as one of the best wrestlers of ALL TIME. He was the wrestler that beat the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) John Cena at SummerSlam 2025, an annual major wrestling event. SummerSlam 2025 was so important, because it was Cena’s final SummerSlam match at WWE before retirement.
Cody Rhodes is one of the most genuine wrestlers, as a human being, in the world. That is why I wanted to spotlight him.
Who Is Cody Rhodes?
Rhodes was the greatest wrestler on his team in high school and now he’s in the WWE. He had a record of 18-10. His parents moved him to LA, so he could train professionally, and now he is one of the greats.
Dusty Rhodes, another greatest wrestler, is his father. He went by the name “The American Dream,” hence “The American Nightmare.” Dusty was more apparent in the 70s and is now in the Hall of Fame.
What I like about Rhodes is his charisma, like his father had, and how he interacts with people. There is a certain charm about Rhodes that makes everyone love him. He really represents the people, because his colors are red white and blue, which means freedom. He is very “We the People.” It shows that he is one of us and just a normal guy. I love that about Rhodes also.
Not only do I love his charisma, but I love his talent. He has so many signature moves to overpower his opponents called the Cody Cutter, Disaster kick, and Bionic elbow. The bionic elbow looks like it hurts the most to me. Rhodes elbows his opponent in the face. Ouch! This was also a signature move of his father. Rhodes really takes after his father, and the love for him is very evident. Family is what Rhodes is all about in the ring. His fans are also very important to him.
Why I love Cody Rhodes
As I just ended with Rhodes having a big heart, that is why I love him. Not only does he dress very fancy, but he is a real human being. Wrestlers can be seen as very violent people, but he himself is not. He is just a silly guy who loves to wrestle.
Fans can really see that shine in his interviews and his podcast, “What Do You Want to Talk About?” This is a podcast where he brings other WWE stars to talk about their friendship and their career. He is also great friends with his wrestling buddies which I love as well. He is friends with one of my other favorite wrestlers, Jey Uso, who is part of his group, The Nightmare Family. This group has the strongest friendships from what I see, and it is really heartfelt.
The Beginning of the Road for Rhodes
This is just the beginning for Rhodes. He has been in the WWE since 2007 and his aura and his love for other people is what will keep him at the top. With his amazing moves on opponents, wins, and character, I can see Rhodes having a great career forever!