Cody Rhodes punched his ticket to WrestleMania XL by emerging victorious in the 2024 men’s WWE Royal Rumble match.
The victory cemented Rhodes as the fourth wrestler to win back-to-back WWE Royal Rumble matches, alongside the likes of Hulk Hogan, Shawn Michaels, and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin.
In a recent interview with “SHAK,” Rhodes discussed coming through the WWE developmental system at the same time as Kofi Kingston.
The two worked through Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) at the same time, and Rhodes recalled Kingston having issues due to the Jamaican accent he debuted with.
Cody said, “Having kind of come up with Kofi through the system and, you know, we were in developmental together, and then we came up at the same time. I knew that Kofi was struggling, not as a performer [or] as a talent — people love Kofi — but with the accent. He was having trouble connecting with that accent and I think part of him felt a little fraudulent almost.
I was actually just very happy to see him in one moment in one line be able to get out of it and plug back more into himself.”
Kingston ditched the Jamaican accent in 2009 and has since gone on to become the 13th WWE Grand Slam Champion.
Cody Rhodes: From WWE Developmental to WrestleMania XL
Cody Rhodes, the talented professional wrestler, has punched his ticket to WrestleMania XL by emerging victorious in the 2024 men’s WWE Royal Rumble match. This victory not only solidified his place in the prestigious event but also made him the fourth wrestler to win back-to-back WWE Royal Rumble matches, joining the ranks of legendary wrestlers such as Hulk Hogan, Shawn Michaels, and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin.
In a recent interview with “SHAK,” Rhodes opened up about his journey through the WWE developmental system and his experiences with fellow wrestler Kofi Kingston. Both Rhodes and Kingston went through Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) at the same time, and Rhodes recalled Kingston facing challenges due to the Jamaican accent he debuted with.
Rhodes shared, “Having kind of come up with Kofi through the system and, you know, we were in developmental together, and then we came up at the same time. I knew that Kofi was struggling, not as a performer [or] as a talent — people love Kofi — but with the accent. He was having trouble connecting with that accent and I think part of him felt a little fraudulent almost.”
It is interesting to note that Kingston eventually decided to ditch the Jamaican accent in 2009. This decision proved to be a turning point in his career as he went on to achieve great success in the WWE. Kingston has since become the 13th WWE Grand Slam Champion, solidifying his place as one of the top wrestlers in the industry.
The interview with Rhodes sheds light on the challenges that wrestlers face during their journey to stardom. It highlights the importance of authenticity and connecting with the audience on a genuine level. Kingston’s decision to let go of the accent that was holding him back allowed him to tap into his true self and connect with fans on a deeper level.
Rhodes’ own success in the WWE Royal Rumble matches showcases his talent and determination. Winning back-to-back Royal Rumble matches is no small feat, and it further establishes Rhodes as one of the top wrestlers in the industry. His journey from the developmental system to WrestleMania XL is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
As fans eagerly await WrestleMania XL, they can look forward to seeing Cody Rhodes in action, showcasing his skills and entertaining the audience. Rhodes’ story serves as an inspiration to aspiring wrestlers, reminding them that with perseverance and authenticity, they too can achieve their dreams in the world of professional wrestling.
In conclusion, Cody Rhodes’ victory in the 2024 men’s WWE Royal Rumble match has secured his spot at WrestleMania XL. His journey through the WWE developmental system and his experiences with Kofi Kingston shed light on the challenges wrestlers face and the importance of authenticity. Rhodes’ success and Kingston’s decision to let go of a limiting accent serve as reminders of the power of staying true to oneself in the pursuit of greatness. As fans, we eagerly anticipate Rhodes’ performance at WrestleMania XL and celebrate his accomplishments in the world of professional wrestling.