Cody Rhodes's journey from Blood and Guts to WarGames: AEW's missed opportunity

NEW DELHI: In a career that spans both AEW and WWE, Cody Rhodes is set to embark on a new chapter at this year's Survivor Series PLE as he steps into a steel cage for his first-ever WarGames match. The significance of this match goes beyond its brutality; it's a legacy that traces back to his father, the legendary Dusty Rhodes, who had a hand in creating the concept.
Before his foray into WWE's WarGames, Cody was on the cusp of being part of AEW's first Blood and Guts match, a parallel to WarGames.The Elite, comprising Cody Rhodes, Matt and Nick Jackson, "Hangman" Adam Page, and Kenny Omega, was slated to face off against The Inner Circle in the inaugural Blood and Guts television special in 2020. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted these plans, compounded by an injury to one of the Jackson brothers.


The Elite's pivot led to one of AEW's most memorable matches, the Stadium Stampede, involving The Inner Circle. The subsequent Blood and Guts event, when it finally took place, saw The Pinnacle rise to prominence, a new force in AEW led by MJF, Wardlow, FTR, and Shawn Spears.
What Could Have Been in AEW
The inception of Blood and Guts was marked by tension between The Elite and The Inner Circle, with Chris Jericho claiming credit for AEW's success, a narrative that didn't sit well with The Elite. Plans took a turn due to the pandemic, leading to internal strife within The Elite. "Hangman" Adam Page found solace in The Dark Order, and the remaining members pursued individual paths, with tensions reaching a boiling point.

Since Cody's departure from AEW, The Elite has engaged in numerous hardcore style matches, including several Blood and Guts encounters. Cody, known for his resilience and participation in blood feuds, left an indelible mark on AEW. From wrestling with a torn pectoral muscle in WWE to his "crimson mask" moment against his brother Dustin at AEW Double or Nothing 2019, Cody exemplified the alternative wrestling style that AEW fans appreciate.
As Cody makes his way to WWE's Survivor Series, he brings a wealth of experience in intense and bloody encounters. His name will be etched in the history books of those who have competed inside WarGames, a legacy that holds profound significance within the Rhodes family.
WWE Survivor Series 2023 Card