In the summer of 2025, Cody Rhodes openly discussed his departure from All Elite Wrestling and subsequent return to WWE during an interview on The Bill Simmons Podcast. Addressing his thought process at the time, Rhodes spoke about the distinct emotional experiences involved in leaving a company he co-founded versus working for an established powerhouse like WWE.
There’s clearly bad blood, but there’s also clearly respect and love. And in the end, the way I kind of see it is – if I felt disrespected ever at WWE, that’s one thing. That’s a company that was built. That’s the Yankees. That’s the flagship of it all. If I ever felt there, you know, I was a number on a sheet, maybe. But feeling disrespected at something I built with my friends, feeling disrespected there, I wouldn’t stand for it.
– Cody Rhodes, reflecting on his departure from AEW and WWE return
Tony Khan Addresses Rhodes’ Comments with Nuanced Perspective
Following Cody Rhodes’ candid remarks, All Elite Wrestling President Tony Khan responded in a conversation with Q101, reflecting on Rhodes’ recent statements. Khan acknowledged the ongoing dialogue about Rhodes’ departure, emphasizing the importance of context, especially given Rhodes’ frequent appearances in the media.
You know, he does a lot of interviews, and I think when you have to say so many words so often, because he works so hard and works such a big schedule—and to his credit, I bet he does hundreds of interviews a year—I’m not sure I agree with that. But I also would give him the benefit of the doubt.
– Tony Khan, AEW President
I’ve heard him say a lot of positive things too. And for somebody that doesn’t work here and is involved in a competitive promotion, he’s usually pretty gracious with the things he says.
– Tony Khan, AEW President
I’ve seen him since he’s been gone, and it’s always been very positive and good. And, you know, I have only good things to say about him and his contributions here.
– Tony Khan, AEW President
History and Relationship Between Cody Rhodes and AEW
Cody Rhodes exited AEW in early 2022, closing one chapter of his career before embarking on a new era back at WWE. Since returning, Rhodes has reasserted himself as one of WWE’s leading stars. Throughout these changes, the dialogue between Rhodes and AEW, represented by Tony Khan, points to a complex but respectful relationship—one rooted in shared history and the challenges of forging distinct paths in a competitive wrestling industry.
Significance and Potential Impact on Wrestling Industry
Tony Khan’s measured reaction to Rhodes’ comments underscores the ongoing evolution in both men’s careers and the broader wrestling landscape. By expressing a mix of respect and candid disagreement, Khan signals that while business interests may place AEW and WWE as rivals, professional acknowledgment and mutual regard endure. With Rhodes thriving in WWE and Khan guiding AEW’s growth, attention remains on how their individual successes will shape wrestling’s competitive future.
