WWE superstar Cody Rhodes, also known as “The American Nightmare,” recently appeared on the Bill Simmons podcast to discuss his views on the new series WWE: Unreal. Although he has not yet watched the show, Rhodes acknowledged its unique approach to exposing an unseen aspect of the wrestling industry, highlighting how it might draw in fresh viewers.
Introducing Wrestling to a New Generation
Rhodes spoke about the potential impact WWE: Unreal could have on attracting those unfamiliar with wrestling as an entertainment form. He explained that the show offers a perspective beyond what fans typically see in the ring, allowing viewers to connect with wrestlers in a more personal way. Rhodes believes this exposure can convert curiosity into genuine interest, motivating new audiences to attend major events like WrestleMania or SummerSlam.
“My whole outlook on it has been, seeing these people in a different light. Not Rhea Ripley out there in the ring, not CM Punk out there or myself. My whole thought process is, if that’s endearing to a completely new audience that now wants to come out there and check out what we do and see it? For example, if you come to a WrestleMania, if you come to a SummerSlam you’re gonna be a wrestling fan for life usually. There’s always something. But Unreal, my whole thought process is for new fans that don’t know. And then they see Rhea Ripley for example, or Punk. And they want to follow them into the actual — ‘Now I’ll watch the actual show.’ That’s how I’ve always thought it would be a good thing.”
—Cody Rhodes, WWE Superstar
The Evolution of Kayfabe in Wrestling
Rhodes also addressed the concept of kayfabe, the traditional practice of maintaining the scripted illusion in professional wrestling. He noted that the understanding and role of kayfabe have transformed significantly over time. According to Rhodes, while certain elements remain unseen by the general public, the strictness of kayfabe has diminished, making room for new ways to engage fans, especially those unfamiliar with wrestling’s inner workings.
“The veil’s been lifted a long time. Certainly there’s parts of it that haven’t been seen. But kayfabe does not mean what kayfabe used to mean. And I always tell people, ‘I’ll give you $1,000 if you can tell me what kayfabe means. If you can actually tell me,’ because it’s a one-word definition and nobody ever gets it. But to me, it’s all about capturing a new audience, because I feel the hardcore wrestling fan, they’re pretty much like myself. We’re in, we’re going through it. I’ve watched my whole life, I love it, I’ll continue to watch.”
—Cody Rhodes, WWE Superstar
WWE Unreal’s Potential to Grow the Fanbase
By revealing behind-the-scenes aspects and showing wrestlers’ real personalities, WWE: Unreal aims to broaden wrestling’s appeal to a wider audience. Rhodes emphasized that this approach could encourage newcomers to become dedicated fans, attending live events and following weekly shows. The series may serve as a gateway that transforms casual interest into a lifelong passion for wrestling.
As WWE continues to innovate in engaging fans, the response to WWE: Unreal could shape how the company attracts and retains viewers in an evolving entertainment landscape. With insight from stars like Cody Rhodes, it is clear the series holds promise for expanding wrestling’s reach beyond its traditional core audience.
