The six-year anniversary episode of AEW Dynamite showcased a striking reference to Cody Rhodes AEW reference, stirring excitement among fans. On this special night, AEW honored its history in Jacksonville by featuring a celebratory video package spotlighting some of its most iconic moments, prominently including Rhodes. Known as the “American Nightmare,” Cody Rhodes played a pivotal role in founding the promotion alongside Tony Khan, The Young Bucks, and Kenny Omega in 2019. Although now a major WWE star, Rhodes appeared briefly in a backstage segment during the broadcast, marking his significant early contributions as both an in-ring competitor and executive vice president before his 2022 departure.
Andrade’s Return Shakes Up AEW Dynamics
The same AEW Dynamite episode also witnessed an electrifying comeback featuring Andrade, former WWE NXT champion and an ex-AEW talent. After parting ways with WWE shortly before the event, Andrade returned to AEW, aligning himself with The Don Callis Family. His dramatic entrance followed a chaotic brawl that erupted after a six-man tag match where Kenny Omega and Bandido triumphed over The Young Bucks and Josh Alexander. When the arena lights momentarily went out, Andrade reappeared in a mask, launching a surprise attack on Omega. The segment culminated with Don Callis entering the ring to welcome Andrade, signaling a powerful new alliance within the promotion’s faction landscape.
CM Punk Featured in AEW’s Anniversary Tribute
Former AEW star CM Punk was also included in the anniversary video package, offering a glimpse of his impactful run with the company despite his controversial exit. The footage shown dated back to December 2021 when Punk teamed up with Sting and Darby Allin in a memorable trios match against The Pinnacle. His face paint, inspired by the Chicago flag, symbolized solidarity with his teammates during that period. Although currently thriving in WWE, the acknowledgment underlined Punk’s undeniable influence during his AEW tenure.
Mercedes Mone Prepares to Defend CMLL Women’s Title
Beyond the Jacksonville promotion’s borders, Mercedes Mone is gearing up for a significant championship defense. Known for her reign as the TBS Champion and boasting nearly 500 days with the title, Mone also carries multiple accolades that have earned her the moniker “9 belts Mone.” On October 17, she will defend the CMLL Women’s World Championship against Persephone at Arena Mexico. Persephone, who previously challenged Mone for the TBS Championship at Forbidden Door 2025 in a four-way match, seeks redemption and hopes to capture the CMLL title in this high-stakes confrontation. The match holds strong intrigue for enthusiasts watching whether Mone can maintain her dominant run or if Persephone will emerge victorious.
The Lasting Impact of Cody Rhodes and AEW’s Evolution
Cody Rhodes’ cameo on AEW Dynamite has reignited speculation about his potential future with the promotion, an exciting prospect given his foundational role. His brief in-show appearance served both as a tribute to AEW’s roots and a reminder of the ever-evolving relationships within professional wrestling’s top tiers. Combined with the return of Andrade and acknowledgments of stars like CM Punk, AEW’s anniversary celebration highlighted a dynamic roster and deep narrative layers that continue to engage passionate audiences.
As AEW advances its storylines and wrestling personalities, moments like these underscore the intricate ties between its past and present, hinting at dramatic developments ahead. Fans can expect intense storytelling and potential surprises as the promotion builds on its six-year legacy.
“His comeback took place just a few weeks after his departure from WWE was officially confirmed.”
?Karan Raj, Senior Writer
“When they came back on, Andrade appeared in the ring wearing a mask and attacked Omega.”
?Karan Raj, Senior Writer
“Cody Rhodes briefly appeared in a backstage segment. The segment served as a reminder of his contributions to AEW’s creation and early years.”
?Karan Raj, Senior Writer
“The clip shown dates back to December 2021, when Punk teamed with Sting and Darby Allin in a trios match against The Pinnacle.”
?Karan Raj, Senior Writer
“Her challenger is Persephone, who has previously challenged Mone unsuccessfully for the TBS Championship at Forbidden Door 2025 in a four-way bout.”
?Karan Raj, Senior Writer
CM Punk y Cody Rhodes en el video especial sobre los 6 años de #AEWDynamite. Bien, como corresponde https://t.co/QOA53nGtaC pic.twitter.com/HzqhBDIC2P
— DDSD Wrestling (@dosdossolodos) October 2, 2025
