LSN News › India

World · India Bureau

WWE Star Cody Rhodes Reveals Why MMA Career Never Materialized

Professional wrestling champion Cody Rhodes has discussed a path not taken, explaining his decision against pursuing mixed martial arts despite considering the transition. The WWE Superstar also detailed his spouse's response to the unconventional career proposal.

LSN India · 31 October 2026

Cody Rhodes, one of professional wrestling's most prominent figures, has opened up about a critical career crossroads that could have altered his trajectory entirely. In recent comments, the WWE Superstar revealed he once seriously contemplated transitioning to mixed martial arts competition, a natural but ultimately rejected progression for an athlete with his profile and physical capabilities.

The American wrestler, known for his high-profile matches and championship reigns, explained the reasoning behind ultimately dismissing the MMA option despite the sport's growing prominence and financial opportunities. Rhodes' deliberation reflected the broader trend of elite wrestlers occasionally testing waters in combat sports, though few at his level have made the complete transition.

A significant factor in Rhodes' decision-making process involved his wife, Brandi Rhodes, who shared her perspective when her husband broached the subject. Her reaction played a notable role in shaping his final conclusion to remain focused on his professional wrestling career rather than embarking on the demanding training regimen required for MMA competition.

Rhodes' choice to remain in wrestling has proven advantageous, as his career trajectory in WWE has included major storylines and championship opportunities. The decision underscores how personal relationships and family considerations often influence high-profile athletes' career choices, particularly when contemplating major transitions between different sporting disciplines.