Wrestling fans learned this week that Cody Rhodes has long worked behind the scenes to convince retired legend Abyss, now known in WWE as producer Chris Parks, to stage a surprise return at the Royal Rumble. The revelation came during the recent episode of
“What Do You Wanna Talk About? With Cody Rhodes,”
where the topic of veteran talent making unexpected comebacks was explored with Kevin Owens, highlighting the sought-after Cody Rhodes Royal Rumble legend return scenario.
Rhodes’ Persistent Attempts to Secure an Unexpected Royal Rumble Appearance
During the conversation, Cody Rhodes—often referred to as The American Nightmare—described his years-long campaign to bring Chris Parks, who wrestling fans remember as Abyss, back to the ring for WWE fans. While New Year’s traditions mean that fans regularly look forward to the iconic Royal Rumble for its surprise entrants, few match the excitement of classic figures making a comeback. Rhodes openly admitted that he has repeatedly approached Abyss about making his return at this highly anticipated event.
However, even with Cody’s determination, the idea had significant obstacles. Kevin Owens, a longtime friend and colleague, said that although a comeback was tantalizingly close one year, circumstances ultimately made it unfeasible. Owens referenced the changes in Chris Parks’ physical health, agreeing with Rhodes that some opportunities pass by before they can become a reality. The pair’s discussion highlighted the ongoing affection and respect they have for the TNA legend, while also acknowledging the practical challenges involved in his returning to in-ring competition after years away.
Producer Chris Parks’ Lasting Influence on WWE Behind the Scenes
Even without a return to active wrestling, Chris Parks continues to contribute significantly to WWE, working as a producer—an agent responsible for helping wrestlers and creative teams deliver memorable matches. Both Rhodes and Owens credited Parks for his creativity and distinct presence backstage, especially during unusual periods like the pandemic era. They noted how Parks’ experience and skill set make him especially valuable as a producer, shaping key bouts and working closely with superstars to create memorable moments for audiences worldwide.
“[Cody]: One that I’ve been trying for years and just not gonna happen. I keep trying to get Abyss into the Royal Rumble.[Kevin]: Abyss? Well, yeah, it came so close one year![Cody]: I know, I know.[Kevin]: I just think it’s too late.[Cody]: Yeah. Some things are too late.[Kevin]: He lost too much weight. I think putting him in the ring at this point, when he walks that way, would be illegal. But we love Chris. Chris Park.[Cody]: We do. We talked about him on the one with Priest because he’s. He’s such a unique producer agent to get.[Kevin]: During the pandemic era, he was a producer a couple of times for me, and I’m the kind of guy who wants to figure sh*t out at the last second, last minute.”
—Cody Rhodes, WWE Superstar, and Kevin Owens, WWE Superstar
Parks’ behind-the-scenes efforts were especially praised by Owens, who credited him with contributing to the success of key pandemic-era matches. Fans who may miss seeing Abyss in action can find solace in his creative fingerprints on some of WWE’s highest-level storytelling and match production.
Abyss Affirms His Retirement, Celebrates Legacy in Other Ways
With a wrestling career spanning over two decades, Chris Parks has been involved in some of the most brutal and memorable matches, including his iconic Monster’s Ball bouts. Considering the accumulated injuries from his hardcore style, he confirmed in a recent interview with Fightful Select that his in-ring days are over and that he is satisfied with this decision. Parks has transitioned to mentoring the next generation of wrestlers and driving WWE’s creative side as a producer agent, ensuring his lasting impact on the business.
While an in-ring return at the Royal Rumble may never materialize, fans of Abyss and the character’s signature weapon, Janice, can continue to celebrate his colorful legacy. His likeness and signature contributions are included in downloadable content for the WWE 2K25 Dunk & Destruction DLC, where players can relive aspects of his legendary career and experience what might have been had he entered the Rumble once more.
What This Means for Fans and the Royal Rumble Legacy
The story emphasizes the lasting bonds and passion that shape professional wrestling. Even as nostalgic fans hope for Cody Rhodes Royal Rumble legend returns like an Abyss cameo, the reality of physical limits, evolving roles, and honoring a career’s full journey shapes the narrative. Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens’ candid appreciation for Chris Parks underlines the significance of such legends’ continued influence, whether through mentoring talent or helping to create the exciting moments that make events like the Royal Rumble so meaningful to audiences and performers alike.
