Cody Rhodes is actively working to establish his Cody Rhodes Hollywood career with a goal of creating a unique identity separate from past WWE stars who successfully transitioned to film. Known as “The American Nightmare,” Rhodes has landed a key role as Guile in the upcoming live-action adaptation of the video game Street Fighter, set for release on October 16, 2026.
The film is directed by Kitao Sakurai and features fellow WWE star Roman Reigns portraying Akuma, alongside Jason Momoa as Blanka. Rhodes dedicated himself to the physical demands of Guile’s character, performing his own stunts to bring authenticity to the role. His involvement in this movie marks a significant stepping stone in his ambitions beyond wrestling.
Wrestling Stars’ Footsteps Inform but Don’t Define Rhodes’ Hollywood Ambitions
Rhodes has openly expressed admiration for WWE icons like Dwayne Johnson, Batista, and John Cena, who have each crafted successful acting careers. However, he is intent on forging a different route rather than replicating their paths. In conversation with Local 12, Rhodes emphasized his desire to find a distinct lane within the entertainment industry that reflects his personal style and storytelling approach.
He values the inspiration these former wrestlers provide but is cautious about following their footsteps too closely. Rhodes also highlighted that his acting experiences have positively influenced his wrestling performances, enhancing his overall skill set both inside and outside the ring.
“If those opportunities come up, I love those opportunities. The idea that we can go off and do this, and tell stories in different worlds, meet these new people, and challenge ourselves as storytellers or artists or however you wanna look at a pro-wrestler. “It was very helpful for me to do it. I came back better at wrestling, believe it or not, from being able to go and do that.”“So I’d like to find my own lane. I’ve watched what The Rock has done, Smashing Machine is – no pun intended – it’s a smash. It’s unbelievable, his work. “Batista, completely different lane, unbelievable work. John Cena and the Peacemaker stuff, it’s gangbusters. “If that’s the route we’re going, I wanna find a different lane, but I’m very grateful for the path that they’ve set and how they’re doing it.”
– Cody Rhodes, WWE Star and Actor
Street Fighter Cast Highlights WWE Talent in Key Roles
The upcoming Street Fighter movie brings together a mix of wrestling athletes and Hollywood actors, creating heightened anticipation. Rhodes’ role as Guile places him among other WWE performers portraying major characters, including Roman Reigns as the fierce Akuma. Jason Momoa’s casting as Blanka adds further star power.
The film’s production, under director Kitao Sakurai, is closely watched by wrestling and gaming fans alike, who are eager to see how these fighters translate their skills to the big screen. Rhodes’ commitment to performing his own stunts reflects his dedication to delivering a credible and engaging performance, which may set a strong example for crossover entertainers.
Rhodes’ Acting Experience Enhancing Wrestling Craft
Cody Rhodes acknowledges that his growing involvement in acting has had a beneficial impact on his wrestling career. By embracing different storytelling methods and artistic challenges in Hollywood, he has enhanced his in-ring persona and performance quality. This cross-pollination between two demanding entertainment worlds is shaping Rhodes into a versatile talent.
His willingness to take acting roles while continuing to wrestle reinforces his commitment to expand his professional horizons without losing touch with his roots.
Contextualizing the Growing Presence of WWE Stars in Entertainment
Rhodes’s venture into Hollywood is part of a broader trend where WWE wrestlers transition to mainstream entertainment. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson set a high standard with his blockbuster roles, while John Cena and Batista have also established varied acting careers. These stars have diversified the opportunities available to performers beyond the wrestling ring.
Yet, Rhodes’ ambition to create a unique legacy suggests a cautious but hopeful approach, mindful of the unpredictability of the entertainment industry. His strategy involves blending his wrestling background with new storytelling forms, without simply replicating earlier models.
What Lies Ahead for “The American Nightmare” in Hollywood
With the October 2026 release of Street Fighter on the horizon, Cody Rhodes’ Hollywood career is poised to gain significant momentum. His determination to develop a distinctive identity as an actor sets him apart from other WWE alumni turned entertainers. Should this transition prove successful, Rhodes could inspire a new generation of wrestlers seeking creative fulfillment on their own terms.
As he continues to balance wrestling with acting commitments, fans and industry watchers will be eager to see how Rhodes shapes his lane among established stars, sustaining his presence across entertainment platforms while evolving as a multifaceted performer.
Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes believes filming for Street Fighter has made him a better wrestler, and comments on whether he wants to do more acting in the future:
"If those opportunities come up, I love those opportunities. The idea that we can go off and do this, and… pic.twitter.com/aYFkXbL9Qe
— WrestleTalk (@WrestleTalk_TV) October 4, 2025
