Wrestler Cody Rhodes recently revealed his plans for his eventual funeral, expressing a strong desire to be honored as a hero within a wrestling context. Speaking on the show Grave Conversations alongside actor David Dastmalchian, Rhodes outlined how he envisions a pro wrestling-themed funeral that reflects his passion and dedication to the sport he loves.
Inspiration Drawn from Comic Book Culture for Funeral Tribute
Rhodes cited the DC graphic novel Identity Crisis as a major influence on his funeral plans, highlighting a memorable scene featuring a funeral where all attendees appeared in full costume and gear. He described this as one of the greatest funeral scenes in comic book history, which inspired him to request something similar for his own send-off.
The biggest one for me—I don’t know if you’ve ever read this graphic novel. I definitely consider it my favorite DC graphic novel of all time. It made me a comic book fan later in my life after I’d drifted away. There’s a book called Identity Crisis,
Rhodes explained.
Identity Crisis has one of the greatest funeral scenes of all time, because all of them showed up in gimmick, full gear.
Full Gimmick Funeral with Personal Wrestling Attire Requested
Rhodes expressed a wish for the wrestling community to attend his funeral dressed in their wrestling gimmicks, mirroring the ceremonial style from his favorite comic book scene. He also wants to be buried in the American Nightmare Sandra Grey robe, symbolizing his wrestling persona. Rhodes emphasized his desire to be remembered as a superhero figure within the wrestling world due to the significant impact he has made on the sport.
So, when my time comes, I want the wrestling world in full gimmick. Bury me in the American Nightmare Sandra Grey robe, bury me as I was. I spent so much time giving back to pro wrestling and taking from pro wrestling, and love it, that I just feel like I got to play a superhero and I’d like to go out [as] a superhero.
Clear Wishes Against Cremation for Funeral Arrangement
Alongside his detailed vision, Rhodes made it clear that he does not want to be cremated after his passing. He rejected the idea of being kept in an urn, stressing a preference for a mausoleum burial that fits his wrestling funeral theme.
I don’t want to be in an urn, ever.
Additional Thoughts Shared in the Interview
During the Grave Conversations discussion, Rhodes also responded lightheartedly to unusual hypothetical questions, including whether he would choose to fight an unstable swan or a group of calm raccoons, showcasing the diverse and candid nature of the interview.
Significance of Cody Rhodes’ Funeral Request
Cody Rhodes’ intention to have a funeral deeply rooted in wrestling culture emphasizes his enduring connection to the sport and the community. By asking to be buried in full wrestling regalia and invoking a superhero image, Rhodes aims to leave a lasting legacy that honors the theatrical and passionate spirit of professional wrestling. His wishes also highlight an intersection between wrestling and comic book culture, reflecting how personas and storytelling unify fans and performers alike. This unique approach to a final farewell could set a precedent for how wrestlers commemorate their lives and contributions in the future.
