Cody Rhodes has built a reputation not only as a top WWE talent but also as a genuinely supportive friend in the wrestling world. His close bond with fellow wrestler Ricky Starks, which predates Rhodes’ return to WWE, highlights the authenticity behind his rise in the industry.
Before signing with WWE, Cody Rhodes and Ricky Starks forged a friendship during their time together in AEW. Even when Starks was still affiliated with All Elite Wrestling, he attended the 2023 Royal Rumble to support Rhodes. Despite mixed reactions from some peers about Starks’ presence at the event, their friendship remained strong and sincere.
Ricky Starks Opens Up About His Relationship With Cody Rhodes
In an interview with Good Karma Wrestling, Ricky Starks shared how his connection with Cody Rhodes goes beyond the ring and fame. When asked about how often he brags about their friendship, Starks revealed that he does so infrequently but values the bond deeply. He expressed his admiration for Rhodes through personal and professional support, saying:
“Not a lot, actually. He’s a really good dude, great dude. He has helped me out tremendously in wrestling, outside of wrestling, with my family. My family loves him. I love his family. To me, he’s just Cody. I don’t think of him as ‘WWE Champion.’ That’s just my man right there. He’s doing it. He’s doing his damn thing.” — Ricky Starks, Professional Wrestler
Cody Rhodes Advances Toward a High-Stakes Champion Showdown
At Wrestlepalooza, Cody Rhodes successfully defended his Undisputed WWE Championship by defeating Drew McIntyre in the main event. This victory not only solidified his grip on the title but also set the stage for a champion-versus-champion showdown against World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins at the upcoming Crown Jewel event.
Reports indicated that there was initial consideration for McIntyre to claim the victory at Wrestlepalooza, but the decision was ultimately made to keep Rhodes as champion to maintain the storyline momentum. Rhodes has enjoyed a stellar year, notably topping the Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 list for the second year in a row, placing him alongside legends such as Bret Hart, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and John Cena.
Industry Developments and Future Wrestling Storylines
Beyond Cody Rhodes’ story, the wrestling world continues to buzz with significant events and announcements. Tony Khan, AEW’s president, recently made a major announcement during an episode of AEW Dynamite, keeping fans eager about the promotion’s direction. Meanwhile, ESPN’s president of content shared optimistic views on WWE’s video output and how sports media will continue to cover wrestling.
Additional reports have surfaced regarding Roman Reigns’ future plans, and insights into CM Punk’s career reveal that he will not pursue a farewell tour like John Cena, who is nearing the end of his own farewell run. AEW Dynamite aired a notable six-man tag match featuring prominent wrestlers such as Adam Page, capstoned by Tony Khan’s remarks. In WWE, Penta announced ambitious aspirations, adding further excitement to ongoing wrestling developments. The Undertaker has also addressed rumors circulating online, showing his discontent with certain social media discussions.
Why the Cody Rhodes Friendship in WWE Resonates
The candid glimpse into Cody Rhodes’ friendship with Ricky Starks offers a layer of human connection amid the fierce competition of professional wrestling. It reveals a side of Rhodes that fans rarely see—a dependable friend who impacts lives beyond the wrestling ring. As Rhodes prepares for his high-profile clash with Seth Rollins, this background emphasizes both his professional stature and his personal integrity.
Rhodes’ continued reign as WWE Champion, paired with his recognition atop the PWI 500, marks him as a central figure in the wrestling world’s future storylines. His relationship with Starks and others contributes to a narrative that fans and insiders alike find compelling as it blends genuine friendship with high-stakes competition.
