Cody Rhodes, co-owner and coach at the Nightmare Factory wrestling school, recently revealed the legendary matches he plays for his students as part of their training regimen. During an appearance on Hot Ones, Rhodes highlighted two classic bouts that serve as key examples for his trainees: Sting versus Ric Flair from the 1990 Great American Bash, and Bret Hart against Mr. Perfect from <a href="https://cynicaltimes.org/tag/summerslam/”>SummerSlam 1991. These matches are used to teach essential wrestling techniques and storytelling within the ring.
Rhodes’ Reflection on Choosing These Matches
Rhodes reflected on why he selects these particular contests for his students, noting the abundance of influential matches available. He remarked,
“We watch two, and I have to think for a moment. There are so many you could use as a third. The first match we watch is Sting vs. Ric Flair from The Great American Bash. The second one is Bret Hart vs. Mr. Perfect from SummerSlam. I might throw in WrestleMania 40 as the third. It’s surreal to go from being the guy who was away from the company, trash-talking it, and building something else, to returning, earning my place back, and being told, ‘It’s all yours.’ So, it might be WrestleMania 40 as the third.”
This illustrates how Rhodes connects his own wrestling journey with the lessons he imparts at his school.
The Role of Classic Matches in Developing Future Talent
By showing these historic clashes, Cody Rhodes uses the rich history of wrestling to inspire and educate the next generation of performers. The Nightmare Factory blends practical training with respect for wrestling’s storytelling traditions, helping students understand how past matches shaped the industry. This approach aims to build wrestlers who honor the sport’s legacy while pushing it forward.
Looking Ahead at the Nightmare Factory’s Influence
Through the use of iconic bouts like those of Sting, Ric Flair, Bret Hart, and Mr. Perfect, combined with Rhodes’ own experience and vision, the Nightmare Factory continues to be a significant environment for wrestling’s future stars. The inclusion of a recent marquee event like WrestleMania 40 may further link current trends with the lessons of the past, ensuring students learn the importance of legacy alongside innovation.
