Cody Rhodes shared a remarkable story about the private discussion that led to his return to WWE, describing it as more like a scene from a crime thriller than a typical corporate negotiation. The encounter took place recently and involved WWE Chairman Vince McMahon personally traveling to meet Rhodes face-to-face, illustrating the significance of the moment. This revelation highlights the importance of the Cody Rhodes WWE negotiation as not just a business transaction but a defining event in his career.
How the Meeting Came About and Initial Impressions
In a conversation with The Undertaker and Michelle McCool on the Six Feet Under podcast, Rhodes recounted how he was unexpectedly approached for the meeting. Contrary to what he anticipated, it wasn’t a casual introduction or handled by executives—it was Vince McMahon himself who boarded a plane to meet him. Rhodes admitted his initial assumptions were naive regarding the gravity of this encounter.
“He flew down. He flew down. And that’s it… I honestly thought it would just be a general like meet and greet — which is so naive for thinking.” ?Cody Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
Emotional Stakes Beyond Money
Cody explained that the pressure in the room had little to do with financial figures initially. Instead, it was about proving his worth after feeling undervalued during his prior WWE tenure. The meeting was an opportunity for him to be seen and recognized for his growth both as a performer and a person since leaving the company.
“All I ever thought of the meeting, I was so excited. Again, somebody who said — never directly — but I was made to feel didn’t value me or didn’t value me enough. Perhaps. That’s all I thought about in that meeting: I just want them to see me, right?” ?Cody Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
Sharing Personal and Professional Growth
During the meeting, Rhodes detailed the many developments in his life and career, including having a child and running his own wrestling promotion. Despite his preparations, he quickly realized that he was outmatched by the experienced negotiators across the table, comparing them to “Jedi Masters” of the craft.
“There’s so much that’s happened. I’ve had a child. I ran my own show. I’ve done some promoting. I’ve done a little booking here and there. I just want them to see me.” ?Cody Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
“And I should have known. You’re never smarter than them. These are the Jedi Masters. They got me very quickly. Very quickly.” ?Cody Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
The Power of the Word “Opportunity” During Negotiations
Rhodes admitted that the pivotal moment of the negotiation wasn’t about the money but the concept of “opportunity.” This word struck a deep chord, representing a chance for him to prove himself anew. The emphasis on this idea transformed the tone of the conversation from a simple contract discussion into a challenge full of potential.
“And it wasn’t even a money thing. It was just that word… and you guys know this word… but: Opportunity.” ?Cody Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
“You hear ‘opportunity’ — and then not only do you hear opportunity, you hear: ‘It’s still a chance to show them.’ It’s still a chance to… yeah. Alright. You’ll find out. This is one idea you have, but the night after you’re gonna have a whole new outlook.” ?Cody Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
The Distinctive Style of Vince McMahon’s Negotiation
The negotiation took on an almost cinematic quality when Rhodes revealed that Vince McMahon did not verbally disclose the offer but instead wrote the contract number on a blank piece of paper and slid it across the table. This unconventional tactic impressed Rhodes, creating a memorable and somewhat “gangster” feeling to the whole process.
“Did he put the number on a piece of paper? Yeah. So imagine, there’s nothing on this, right? And then he just wrote a number.” ?Cody Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
“He just wrote it and he went like this… and I saw him write it. So none of this… it was just like — I saw it.” ?Cody Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
“I really appreciated it. It was old school. And I’m not even from that era and I kinda want to be. And I felt like — oh, that’s like a gangster move. Very gangster. Not saying it out loud.” ?Cody Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
Cody’s Immediate Honest Reaction to the Offer
Despite being a seasoned competitor, Rhodes admitted he broke one of the cardinal rules of negotiating by reacting candidly upon seeing the offer, saying,
“Well, that’s a lot of money.”
Almost instantly, he worried that his response might have cost him additional leverage.
“I think what I said was like, ‘Well, that’s a lot of money.’” ?Cody Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
“And then I thought, I shouldn’t have said that. There could have been more.” ?Cody Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
Reflecting on the Unique Nature of Negotiations
Rhodes acknowledged how unfamiliar and intense such moments can be, no matter the individual’s experience. Comparing it to scenes seen in films, he emphasized that each negotiation is unique and depends entirely on how the person involved handles it in the moment.
“Again, it’s like those situations — you watch movies — it’s crazy. These negotiations. And then you find yourself in one. And you’re so unique in your moment. It’s only gonna be how you deal with it.” ?Cody Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
Curiosity About How Others Handle Big Negotiations
Since his own experience, Rhodes shared that he often wonders what goes on behind the scenes when his peers face similar contract talks, highlighting the varied reactions individuals may have in these high-pressure situations.
“Everyone’s different. And I always wonder… when my peers go into these negotiations, I’m like, ‘I wonder what he’s doing when they say these things.’” ?Cody Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
The Personal and Psychological Nature of His WWE Return
Far from being a simple financial decision, Cody Rhodes’ return to WWE showcased how well-timed strategy and psychological insight played a key role. WWE’s approach combined respect, recognition, and the offer of a challenging “opportunity” that goes beyond dollars, marking Rhodes’ return as a deeply personal and validating moment. This meeting set the foundation for his impactful WrestleMania comeback and affirmed his status as a vital performer in professional wrestling’s landscape.
