Cody Rhodes recently declared that he wants to become the most profitable superstar in WWE history by taking the company to heights never seen before. And he knows exactly how to do it.
Rhodes defeatedRoman Reignsand snapped his historic 1,316-day reign as WWE Undisputed Universal Heavyweight Champion, claiming the title at WrestleMania 40.
With AEW’s rise as a stiff competitor over the past half-decade, Rhodes and his “finish the story” arc — along withThe Rock’s returnand new faces likeLogan Paul— have elevated the wrestling industry considerably.
During a recent interview with Peter Rosenberg onCheap Heat, Rhodes elaborated more on his stance. “I’d like to make sure I — when it’s time — leave them in the best possible place they’ve [WWE] ever been.”
The 38-year-old also mapped out what becoming the greatest would look like from an individual standpoint as a top earner in the promotion.
“I want to make sure there’s no spin. When we’re all said and done here, there’s no spin. If Roman Reigns was the greatest thing WWE had seen up to this point, I want to completely eclipse him. And I mean that with the utmost respect.”
Rhodes will have to earn more than ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin andBrockLesnar’sWWE-record$12 million salaries to become the company’s highest-paid competitor, as he intends.
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Money aside, Rhodes knows that he has a handful of all-time greats to surpass as an in-ring talent and microphone presence before entering the GOAT discussion.
To his credit, the third-generation superstar’s flair is helping the WWE channel elements from the fabled “Attitude Era,” as the transition away from PG programming has already begun.
But taking the mantle from those heavyweights, like Reigns and Stone Cold, in the court of public opinion will require an eventful title run, storied rivalries, and some memorable moments to leave the fans with.
Finishing his story and feuding with Reigns have been great starting points. Rhodes’ comments show that he is ready for the challenge of etching his name in WWE history books as the greatest ever.
