Cody Rhodes, a prominent WWE Superstar known as The American Nightmare, has shared his life and career with notable partners, with his marriage to Brandi Rhodes standing out prominently since September 12, 2013. Brandi has been a steadfast supporter of Cody’s wrestling journey, often celebrating his major victories, and together they played a crucial role in establishing the foundation of AEW. Before their union, Cody was romantically linked to two other women during his WWE tenure.
The Rumored Romance with Beth Phoenix
Between 2009 and 2010, fans and wrestling circles buzzed with speculation that Cody Rhodes and Beth Phoenix, a former Divas Champion, were dating. The rumor emerged from several shared photographs and the close professional relationship they maintained. Despite the widespread discussion, neither Cody nor Beth publicly confirmed any romantic involvement, maintaining ambiguity around their relationship. Their rumored connection stirred tensions, drawing strong reactions from WWE management at the time.
Public Relationship with Layla El
Unlike the unconfirmed rumors with Beth Phoenix, Cody Rhodes’ relationship with Layla El was openly acknowledged. This romance spanned from 2009 until 2011 and was relatively private, with the duo keeping their personal lives mostly out of the spotlight. After parting ways with Cody, Layla began dating wrestler Richard Young, and their relationship culminated in marriage in 2014. Shortly thereafter, Layla retired from professional wrestling.
How Cody and Brandi Rhodes Met and Built Their Life
Brandi Rhodes entered WWE through Florida Championship Wrestling, WWE’s developmental territory now known as NXT, in July 2011. She worked as an interviewer and announcer under the ring name Eden Stiles. In a 2017 interview with Wrestling Inc., Brandi recalled that Cody initially showed little romantic interest when they first crossed paths. However, that changed quickly as Cody, then Intercontinental Champion, began spending more time with her.
Brandi shared that Cody asked her out, but she delayed saying yes for about a month, concerned about mixing personal and professional relationships. Despite this cautious start, the two quickly bonded, discovering a genuine chemistry. Their engagement was announced in November 2012, and they married less than a year later, on September 12, 2013. In 2021, the couple welcomed their first daughter, Liberty, solidifying their status as one of professional wrestling’s most admired power couples.
The Lasting Influence of Cody Rhodes’ Relationships on Wrestling
Cody Rhodes’ relationships, especially with Brandi, have extended their impact beyond personal lives into the professional wrestling world. Together, Cody and Brandi helped shape AEW, influencing the industry in significant ways. Their story highlights the complexities and challenges of maintaining romance in a demanding and public career. Fans continue to watch their journey closely as the couple balances family life with their influential roles in wrestling.
