“NXT can be kind of intimidating”: Cody Rhodes about the evolution of the company’s promotional brand?

Cody Rhodes is undeniably one of the most celebrated wrestlers in the industry, carving out a legacy that is hard to match. Aside from his multiple championships, in-skills and expertise, his role in WWE-NXT as a trainer has always been a milestone in his career. So, when he recently gave his statement on one of WWE’s brands, NXT, fans became eager to know what exactly the wrestling legend had to say. Here’s all you need to know.

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Cody Rhodes’ has established a strong presence in WWE-NXT

Cody Rhodes had a long and storied relationship with WWE’s NXT that reflects his deep-rooted passion for wrestling and his commitment to developing future stars. After making his mark on WWE’s main roster, he ventured out and played a significant role in shaping the landscape of independent wrestling and AEW. Back in the WWE fold, Rhodes’ involvement with NXT has proved particularly impactful.

He’s not just a seasoned competitor but also a mentor and trainer who shapes the next generation of wrestlers. Cody’s ties to the brand can be traced to Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), the developmental territory where his father, Dusty Rhodes had his final match in July 2010 where he teamed up with Cody and Dustin Rhodes to face off against Curt Hawkins, Caylen Croft, and Trent Beretta.

Not to mention, Dusty built a reputation for influencing and preparing many young wrestlers, a talent that resonated through Rhodes in the following years. The latter played a pivotal role as a mentor during his time on the original NXT where he guided talents like Husky Harris, who later became known as Bray Wyatt. Rhodes participated in four matches for the revamped brand and the original series. His recent appearances on NXT’s weekly shows in October 2023 and June 2024 underscore his commitment to the brand.

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Rhodes calls NXT as the “grooming ground” for the aspiring wrestlers

Speaking with KSNV Channel 3 News in Las Vegas, Rhodes offered a profound insight into the evolution of NXT. He praised Head Coach Matt Bloom and Senior Vice President of Talent Developmental Creative, Shawn Michaels for their leadership and vision. As per his statement, NXT has transcended its original role as a mere developmental territory,

“NXT, particularly with Baldo [Matt Bloom] and Shawn Michaels, as a talent and current main roster, NXT can be kind of intimidating. It's not really a developmental anymore. It's almost a grooming ground for these monsters who are going to come up and stand across the ring from you, and they've been trained by Shawn Michaels. We're definitely preparing the next generation of superstars and wrestlers. Their run on CW, I've been blown away. Really special stuff.”

His connection to NXT is both personal and professional. As a champion and a mentor, he is deeply invested in the future of wrestling, shaping the careers of the next generation and ensuring that the legacy of his family continues to thrive within WWE.

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