This weekend, Grammy-nominated producer and global superstar Metro Boomin made a high-profile appearance alongside “The American Nightmare” Cody Rhodes at WWE’s Premium Live Event Bad Blood® at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The event, held 27 years after the original Bad Blood show, was teased through a mini-movie style promotion video released by WWE in August, featuring Metro and Rhodes in a stakeout.
The Atlanta legends were joined by fellow hometown stars Quavo and Lil Baby as the crowd erupted with excitement. The night was highlighted by the surprise return of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson to the WWE ring.
Bad Blood is renowned for introducing the first-ever Hell in a Cell match in 1997 and marks the first Premium Live Event in Atlanta since 2022. Cody Rhodes, Atlanta native and current Undisputed WWE Champion, headlined the event by teaming up with Roman Reigns to take on The Bloodline’s Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fatu.
In its latest collaboration, WWE paired WWE champion Cody Rhodes with producer Metro Boomin to make the announcement. In the promotion the duo team up for an old fashioned stakeout of State Farm Arena, where Metro Boomin asks Rhodes if they’re going to sit there until October, which he replies that’s exactly what they’re going to do. They then question each other on why they’re not doing this in their respective tour buses.
WWE’s last Bad Blood event took place in 2004, when Shawn Michaels squared off with Triple H in a Hell in a Cell match. The event originated in 1997 as Michaels faced off against the Undertaker in a Hell in a Cell match as well.
The Bad Blood show comes as Rhodes has elevated to the very top of the WWE card, earning a champion’s return home assuming he’s still carrying the belt a few months from now. It’s also a good event name to revive with the Bloodline still going strong (and now having an internal battle brewing). The last time WWE hosted a premium live event in Atlanta, Day 1 emanated from Rhodes’ home state in 2022 when Brock Lesnar headlined the show to win the WWE championship in a 5-way match.
At WrestleMania 40, Cody Rhodes didn’t just finish his story, he capitalized on everything he’s worked for over the last few years to elevate himself to the face of WWE. Holding the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship for the first time in his career, Rhodes will also roll into Monday Night Raw as the driving force behind the band Downstait claiming the top song on the iTunes Rock chart following his win.
‘Kingdom’ is NUMBER ONE on the #iTunes US Rock Charts!!!
When Rhodes returned to WWE three years ago, he was intentional about every aspect of his character. Maintaining the gimmick he’d created wasn’t in question — he had trademarked everything and has the tattoo of his logo prominently placed on his neck. And when it came to his music, he was adamant everything stay intact.
“The music, it wasn’t that there was any pushback, as much as it was, what does it matter? We make great music here too, and really they do,” Rhodes told Uproxx Sports ahead of his American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodesdocumentary. “I’ve heard a song that was a version for me here. That was an area where I was adamant, and Kevin Dunn was very generous in that he allowed that to be the case. Now I couldn’t think of the bit without it. There’s some fans who are absolutely on board and they know every part of this movie you’re going to see. And then there’s other fans who know, this is where we go, ‘whoa,’ at the show and that may be their only thing. What we’ve discovered was this rallying cry against WWE, which is what the song is, is very catchy. That was an area where I knew it was important enough to fight for it.”
The song has become tied to Rhodes and his rise to the top, and will now follow him into his first appearance as champion on Monday Night Raw.
Wrestling can truly be special. In one of the most dramatic matches ever, Cody Rhodes finished his story, pinning Roman Reigns to become the new Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.
In a match that stacked the odds against Rhodes and allowed Reigns to utilzie every family member and cheating option he had, Rhodes received support from John Cena, Jey Uso, Seth rollins, and The Undertaker to ensure a victory. Reigns received outside support from The Rock, Solo Sikoa, and Jimmy Uso.
In a showdown for the ages, Cody Rhodes etched his name into wrestling lore by defeating Roman Reigns under Bloodline Rules to capture the coveted Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. The thrilling encounter unfolded at the Linc, with Rhodes and Reigns engaging in a battle that electrified the WWE Universe.
Despite facing formidable opposition from the Tribal Chief, Rhodes showcased incredible resilience throughout the match. Reigns attempted to undermine Rhodes by executing the Cross Rhodes, but the indomitable spirit of The American Nightmare prevailed as he kicked out, fueling the intensity of the contest.
In a poignant moment of homage to his father Dusty Rhodes, Rhodes unleashed a Bionic Elbow before mounting a counterattack against Reigns. The momentum shifted as Rhodes delivered a Spear followed by the Cross Rhodes, signaling his determination to seize victory.
However, interference from Jimmy Uso threatened Rhodes’ ascent, prompting an intervention from Jey Uso. With the odds seemingly stacked against him, Rhodes continued to fight, executing a daring Spear through the barricade in a bid to overcome Reigns.
As chaos engulfed the arena, familiar faces such as John Cena, The Rock, and Seth Rollins made dramatic entrances, adding to the spectacle. Despite facing relentless assaults, Rhodes refused to relent, enduring a Spike/Spear combo before mounting a defiant comeback.
In a climactic sequence, Rhodes executed three successive Cross Rhodes maneuvers on Reigns, sealing his destiny as the new Undisputed WWE Universal Champion. The emotional victory sparked jubilant celebrations as Rhodes was joined by loved ones and fellow WWE superstars, marking a triumphant culmination of his journey to the top of the wrestling world.
With his name now etched in wrestling history, Cody Rhodes’ monumental achievement will be remembered as a testament to his unwavering resolve to fulfill his destiny in the ring.
Cody Rhodes, a name synonymous with professional wrestling, has carved out an impressive niche for himself in the industry. As of 2023, the “American Nightmare” boasts an estimated net worth of around $2 million US dollars, according to FightFans. But how did he amass such wealth, and what factors have contributed to his financial success? Let’s dive deep into the journey of this WWE superstar.
Cody’s journey in professional wrestling is nothing short of legendary. Beginning with WWE, he later co-founded All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and successfully returned to WWE in 2023. His multiple championship wins and influential stature in the wrestling world have always intrigued fans about his financial achievements.
The Breakdown: How Cody Achieved A $2 Million Net Worth
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 02: (L-R) Cody Rhodes wrestles Roman Reigns for Undisputed WWE Universal Title Match during WrestleMania Goes Hollywood at SoFi Stadium on April 02, 2023 in Inglewood, California.
(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
The impressive $2 million figure is a testament to Cody’s in-ring talent and his business acumen and strategic decisions outside the squared circle. Here are some key factors that have contributed to his net worth:
Wrestling Contracts
Throughout his illustrious career, Cody has inked deals with major wrestling promotions, including WWE and AEW. These contracts, undoubtedly, have been a significant source of his income and laid the foundation for his financial success.
AEW: More Than Just Wrestling
Cody wasn’t just a wrestler at AEW; he was one of its co-founders. His pivotal role in the company’s early days, both in management and creative decisions, opened up additional revenue streams, further bolstering his net worth.
Merchandising: Cashing In On Popularity
The popularity of Cody Rhodes transcends the ring. From t-shirts to action figures, his merchandise has been a hit among fans. A chunk of the revenue from these sales goes directly to the wrestler, adding a substantial amount to their overall earnings.
Collaborations & Endorsements
Beyond wrestling, Cody has collaborated with various brands and companies, endorsing their products or representing them as an ambassador. Such partnerships can significantly augment a wrestler’s income.
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 02: (L-R) Cody Rhodes wrestles Roman Reigns for Undisputed WWE Universal Title Match during WrestleMania Goes Hollywood at SoFi Stadium on April 02, 2023 in Inglewood, California.
(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
With a current net worth of $2 million in 2023, the sky’s the limit for Cody Rhodes. His income is poised to see an upward trajectory as he continues to shine in his wrestling career. Future contracts, endorsements, and business ventures will likely see his net worth soar even higher.
Cody Rhodes has not only showcased his prowess inside the ring but has also demonstrated a keen business sense outside of it. His current net worth of $2 million in 2023 is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and strategic decisions. As he continues to evolve in the wrestling world, fans and financial analysts alike will be keenly watching his next moves. One thing is for sure: the future looks bright for this WWE superstar.
Cody Rhodes, a prominent star of the WWE RAW programme, recently opened up about the demanding schedule of the WWE (via FightFans). With events such as Raw, SmackDown, Main Event and house shows happening every week, the WWE calendar can indeed be daunting. The frequency of these events means that WWE stars spend a significant amount of time on the road, fulfilling their busy schedules.
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – JANUARY 28: Cody Rhodes looks on during the WWE Royal Rumble at Alamodome on January 28, 2023 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images)
Despite the rigorous schedule, Rhodes expressed his love for the job and the sacrifices it entails. He emphasized the importance of passion and sacrifice not only for the wrestlers but also for their families. Rhodes, who has a family of his own, considers himself fortunate to have his own tour bus, which provides him comfort during his travels:
“The schedule can be very daunting. It’s a gig that you have to really, really love and your family too. You, if you’re someone who has a family like myself, my wife, and my daughter, that love has to, everyone has to know about passion and sacrifice. I am very lucky in the sense that I have my own tour bus, and that’s where I’m comfortable right now” he said to ESPN Radio.
The WWE has been experiencing a surge in popularity, and the wrestlers feel rejuvenated every time they step out in front of the cheering crowds. Despite the physical toll and the gruelling schedule, the love from the fans makes it all worth it.
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 02: (L-R) Cody Rhodes wrestles Roman Reigns for Undisputed WWE Universal Title Match during WrestleMania Goes Hollywood at SoFi Stadium on April 02, 2023 in Inglewood, California.
(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Balancing a professional wrestling career with personal life is no easy task. The constant travel, the physical demands, and the pressure to perform at a high level can be overwhelming. However, for wrestlers like Cody Rhodes, the passion for the sport and the love of the fans outweigh the challenges. The thrill of the ring, the roar of the crowd, and the satisfaction of a well-executed match are rewards that make the demanding WWE schedule worth it.
Behind every successful wrestler is a strong support system. This includes not only trainers, managers, and fellow wrestlers but also family members who understand and support their loved ones’ passion for wrestling. For Rhodes, having his own tour bus is a significant advantage, providing a semblance of comfort amidst the constant travel.
The WWE continues to grow in popularity, with a dedicated fan base that spans the globe. The wrestlers, despite their gruelling schedules, are committed to delivering high-quality entertainment to their fans. As long as there are wrestlers like Cody Rhodes who are willing to make the necessary sacrifices for their passion, the future of WWE looks bright.
