Since his return to WWE, Cody Rhodes has delivered some outstanding matches, thrived as a main event competitor, and demonstrated his capability to carry the company. From his legendary Hell in a Cell match with Seth Rollins to his WrestleMania encounter with Roman Reigns, WWE has consistently placed Rhodes in pivotal roles.
Despite his many highlights, American Nightmare has also had several underrated moments. Rhodes has featured in some of the most overlooked matches during his WWE tenure, showcasing why he has established a strong career in professional wrestling.
Cody Rhodes vs. Rey Mysterio
One standout from Rhodes’ early WWE days was his rivalry with Rey Mysterio. This falls count anywhere match, although it didn’t get the recognition it deserved, showcased a fresh side of Rhodes. While their WrestleMania bouts often receive more attention, this match was equally competitive and creatively utilized the ringside area, much to the fans’ enjoyment.
| When | Match Length | Winner | Dave Meltzer’s Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extreme Rules 2011 | 11:42 | Rey Mysterio | 3.25* |
Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins
The heated rivalry between Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins is well-known among WWE fans for producing exhilarating matches. Despite being overshadowed by other promoted events, their WrestleMania Backlash 2022 bout was meaningful, filled with storytelling, drama, and mutual respect as both competitors made each other shine.
| When | Match Length | Winner | Dave Meltzer’s Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| WrestleMania Backlash 2022 | 20:46 | Cody Rhodes | 4.5* |
Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton
An episode of SmackDown featured an exciting singles street fight between Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton. This match revealed Rhodes’ aggressive side, later more prominent in his post-WWE career, with him securing a win using the ring bell and electrifying the crowd.
| When | Match Length | Winner | Dave Meltzer’s Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| SmackDown, 11/1/11 | 20:32 | Randy Orton | 3.75* |
Cody Rhodes & Goldust vs. The Shield vs. The Usos
While primarily seen as a singles competitor, Rhodes’ tag team with Goldust produced memorable matches. Their match against The Shield and The Usos at Hell in a Cell 2013 brought a dynamic clash of styles with false finishes and high-risk elements, offering an exciting tag team contest.
| When | Match Length | Winner | Dave Meltzer’s Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hell in a Cell 2013 | 14:38 | Cody Rhodes & Goldust | 4* |
Cody Rhodes vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
Rhodes and Nakamura had a brief but entertaining feud highlighted by a Bullrope match on Raw in 2024. This contest was intense and personal, with Nakamura unable to play a cowardly heel, leading to a fierce showdown showcasing their chemistry.
| When | Match Length | Winner | Dave Meltzer’s Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raw, 2/5/24 | 16:43 | Cody Rhodes | 3.5* |
Cody Rhodes vs. Logan Paul
Their bout at the King and Queen of the Ring 2024 was thrilling, with Logan Paul pushing Rhodes hard despite fans doubting a title change. The match featured spectacular moves like a massive frog splash from Paul, with Rhodes expertly building to the finish.
| When | Match Length | Winner | Dave Meltzer’s Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| King and Queen of the Ring 2024 | 24:15 | Cody Rhodes | 4.25* |
Legacy vs. Batista, Shane McMahon & Triple H
The Legacy era was crucial for Rhodes’ character and in-ring growth, highlighted by a unique six-man tag team match at Backlash 2009 involving big names. With Randy Orton securing the pinfall and WWE Championship, this match featured strategic psychology and an exciting finish.
| When | Match Length | Winner | Dave Meltzer’s Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Backlash 2009 | 23:49 | Legacy | 3.5* |
Cody Rhodes vs. Ludwig Kaiser
Though rare on TV, Rhodes faced Ludwig Kaiser on SmackDown in 2023, where Kaiser’s technical prowess provided an ideal challenge. The competitive match demonstrated their natural chemistry, with Rhodes eventually dominating toward the end.
| When | Match Length | Winner | Dave Meltzer’s Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| SmackDown, 3/24/23 | 16:27 | Cody Rhodes | 3.5* |
Cody Rhodes & Goldust vs. New Age Outlaws
Rhodes is famous for daring stunts, exemplified by an incredible moonsault in a steel cage match against the New Age Outlaws in 2014. The bout combined breathtaking spots and solid in-ring work by all participants.
| When | Match Length | Winner | Dave Meltzer’s Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born, 2/3/14 | 16:15 | New Age Outlaws | N/A |
Cody Rhodes vs. AJ Styles
Their Backlash 2024 match in France featured a brilliant storytelling pace, starting technical and building to a fast, intense climax. With well-timed false finishes and big moves, their encounter earned high praise.
| When | Match Length | Winner | Dave Meltzer’s Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Backlash 2024 | 27:18 | Cody Rhodes | 5* |
Fan Take: Cody Rhodes continues to prove why he’s a cornerstone of WWE with his blend of technical skill, storytelling, and high-risk action across varied match types. These matches highlight his evolution and significance in shaping exciting narratives that keep fans invested in the sport’s future.
