Cody Rhodes recently shared a humorous backstage story involving WWE Chairwoman Stephanie McMahon during an episode of his podcast, What Do You Wanna Talk About? This Cody Rhodes Stephanie McMahon story captures a lighthearted moment from his early days in WWE that still affects their interactions today.
A Revealing Backstage Incident with Stephanie McMahon
On his podcast with guest Jelly Roll, Cody Rhodes recounted an episode from when he was working at WWE’s Stamford headquarters. While watching a monitor in the Gorilla position, Rhodes made a joking sound effect as a female superstar, known for her notable presence, ran to the ring. Unbeknownst to him, Stephanie McMahon was standing silently behind him.
Rhodes recalled the moment Stephanie McMahon placed her hand on his shoulder, startling him as he realized his boss had been watching. Instead of reprimanding him, McMahon encouraged him to continue, which left Rhodes feeling embarrassed but amused. Since then, he confessed that the incident often crosses his mind, especially during conversations with her, adding to the playful dynamic of their relationship.
“So, I gotta tell you this Stephanie story. And I only wanted to tell you because I feel like I’ve never gotten it out there. I don’t think her and I have talked about it but it’s one of my favorite moments. And to this day, I’ve never, she’s always had, I mean, she’s Stephanie McMahon, so she already had one on everybody. But I feel like she’s got 20 on me because of this moment. So, I’m sitting at the monitor with my tag team partner at the time, not aware she was standing behind me. And one of the girls who was heavy-chested runs to the ring and running and I’m watching and I’m going, ‘Dum da dum da dum da dum.’ I’m making this sound, ‘Dum da dum da dum da dum.’ And then I felt her, like, hand and I went like that and I saw her. And this is my boss. Even she wasn’t my boss, she is my boss. And she just goes, ‘Keep going. Go. Cool.’ And I thought, like, I was mortified. Ever since that, that’s all I ever think about when we’re talking. It’s like, ‘This woman can’t take me seriously. She can’t.’” —Cody Rhodes, WWE Superstar and Podcast Host
Context Around the Podcast Conversation
The story came up during a discussion about Jelly Roll’s experience appearing on Stephanie McMahon’s podcast, What’s Your Story? With Steph McMahon. Jelly Roll spoke highly of how deep and insightful his conversation with McMahon was, revealing a side to the Chairwoman not often seen by the public.

Encouraged by this, Rhodes shared his own quirky encounter with McMahon, highlighting the contrast between the serious tone of her podcast and the lighthearted backstage moment he experienced. The interaction reveals a more human and relatable side to the WWE leadership.
Cody Rhodes’ Recent Ventures with Stephanie McMahon’s Platforms
Rhodes has expressed interest in joining Stephanie McMahon’s podcast as a guest, which aligns with his ongoing media engagements following his return to WWE. He recently appeared on her ESPN series, Stephanie’s Places, further illustrating the growing professional connection and mutual respect between them.
Other Related WWE Developments
In related WWE news, Roman Reigns has explained how the new ESPN partnership will transform the wrestling promotion’s reach and exposure. Meanwhile, Cody Rhodes and John Cena’s WWE SummerSlam Championship match received unanimous praise, earning a rare perfect five-star rating for its exceptional quality and storytelling.
John Cena himself has decided to keep certain emotional moments from the SummerSlam event private, emphasizing his personal approach to the heartfelt occasion. Additionally, a high-profile storyline involving AEW star MJF was cut short, highlighting ongoing dynamics in professional wrestling storytelling.
Roman Reigns also narrowly avoided a serious injury caused by a botched move during SummerSlam, underscoring the physical risks wrestlers face. Meanwhile, Charlotte Flair’s alliance with Alexa Bliss has garnered attention, with a WWE Hall of Famer praising the positive impact on Flair’s career.
AEW CEO Tony Khan has opened up about what he considers his biggest regret in managing the promotion, showing the pressures of wrestling leadership. Lastly, Cody Rhodes has named a current WWE Superstar he believes is a leader in the locker room atmosphere behind the scenes.
The Lasting Impression of the Backstage Moment
This amusing Cody Rhodes Stephanie McMahon story offers fans insight into the lighter side of WWE’s backstage environment. Despite the high stakes and intense competition, the personal interactions among talent and executives often include moments of humor and unexpected camaraderie.
By sharing this candid tale, Rhodes not only entertains but also humanizes the individuals behind WWE’s global brand, shedding light on the relatable everyday moments that occur away from the spotlight. Fans and observers can expect continued openness from Rhodes regarding his experiences as both a performer and a media personality in wrestling.
