Cody Rhodes isn’t planning to slow down anytime soon, even as those around him apparently keep suggesting he should.
AJ Styles recently weighed in on the topic during an episode of his Phenomenally Retro Podcast, saying the Undisputed WWE Champion needs a break from the relentless grind of being at the top of the card — even if Rhodes himself won’t take one. When those comments were relayed to Rhodes during a recent appearance, the champion acknowledged that the advice is hardly new to him.
Rhodes confirmed that stepping away has been “advised across the board,” suggesting this isn’t the first time people in his circle have floated the idea. Despite that, the reigning champion made clear that taking a break is simply not something he’s looking to do.
It’s a telling moment that speaks to both Rhodes’ mindset and his position in WWE right now. Having spent years working toward the top of the mountain — culminating in his WrestleMania title win — Rhodes appears to have little appetite for stepping back from the spot he fought so hard to reach. The sentiment tracks with the driven, never-stop persona he’s projected throughout his career.
Styles, for his part, didn’t appear to be critical of Rhodes so much as realistic about the physical and mental toll that comes with being the face of a major wrestling promotion. Whether Rhodes eventually reconsiders or continues to push through, it’s clear for now that the champion has no intention of hitting pause.
Reporting and match coverage produced by the PW Exclusive team. Articles under this byline are drafted with AI assistance and reviewed before publication — see our editorial standards for how we work.
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