WWE Champion Cody Rhodes On Wrestler Physique: ‘You Can Body Shame Me All You Want’
Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes is set to face WWE World Heavyweight Champion GUNTHER for the men’s Crown Jewel Championship in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Rhodes’ journey back to the top included a stint away from WWE, leaving in 2014 as Stardust and returning in 2022 as the “American Nightmare.” In a recent “Flagrant” interview, Rhodes discussed the difference between his current character and his previous run.
“Sometimes I think it’s as easy as physicality,” Rhodes explained. “This is gonna sound silly, but this is a vanity business. If you’re trying to be on the come up, you’ve got to be in the best shape of your career.”
Rhodes highlighted GUNTHER as an example of transformation.
“GUNTHER, on the independents, wasn’t visibly muscular, just a hefty, tree-chopping killer dude. Now, he’s in the best shape of his career, looks incredible, and plays the part well. Some fans don’t understand how important that is.”
He continued, “We wrestle with our shirts off, standing next to top athletes. Fans say, ‘You can’t body shame wrestlers.’ What are you talking about? We’re half-naked, you paid hundreds to be there, you can body shame me all you want.”
Reflecting on his initial WWE run, Rhodes linked his earlier missteps to his physical condition and not fighting “the little battles” creatively.
“I wasn’t in great shape and was Dustin’s partner. I should’ve focused on being in the best shape, delivering the best promos, and fighting the little battles. I let frustrations build and eventually asked for my release,” he admitted.
Rhodes praised the current WWE locker room culture, emphasizing its health consciousness.
“Everyone’s like, ‘Who does your diet?’ ‘Who’s training?’ There’s a whole new health-conscious WWE that I love. We’re trying to look our best.”
