Cody Rhodes’ WWE comeback: How did his AEW success rebuild his career?
Cody Rhodes successfully rebuilt his wrestling career after leaving WWE in 2016 by finding success on the independent circuit and helping establish AEW. His journey culminated in a high-profile return to WWE, marking a significant turnaround in his professional trajectory.
Why it matters
Rhodes' career path illustrates the changing landscape of professional wrestling and the power of independent promotions to influence major industry players.
Cody Rhodes’ ascent to the top of WWE was driven by a choice to leave the company when his character and creative direction no longer aligned with his goals. Rhodes didn't take his WWE exit in 2016 as the end of his wrestling career. Instead, he used the independent wrestling circuit to find new opportunities, new opponents and to create a stronger identity.His success outside of WWE would ultimately help to turn his career around. With the help of major independent events and the creation of AEW, Rhodes proved he could do more in wrestling than just work in the ring.
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