Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes believes a new generation of leadership is beginning to emerge backstage in WWE, and he has named several of his peers as potential candidates to one day fill a role similar to the one currently held by Triple H. During an appearance on ESPN’s Unsportsmanlike, Rhodes was asked about his own ambitions and whether he sees himself in a corporate role in a decade.
“The American Nightmare” acknowledged his own interest but also pointed to CM Punk, Seth Rollins, Bayley, and Roman Reigns as stars who could also transition into powerful backstage positions. “I think there’s starting to become a fight for it. And I didn’t see that at first. I thought, well, obviously I’m the best candidate… I felt like, I had some experience, and I’d be interested in something like that,” Rhodes said.
His experience is unique among the current top stars, as he served as an Executive Vice President for AEW from its inception in 2019 until his departure in 2022. During that time, he was instrumental in the formation of the company and had a significant say in both creative and operational matters. However, Rhodes was quick to praise his others for their own leadership qualities. “But also, it’s very clear that CM Punk is really great at helping develop young talent. He probably has a knack for it more than anybody. Seth Rollins is a little bit more rough around the edges, but would probably be an outstanding boss when it comes down to it”.
Rhodes noted that the current WWE locker room is more mature and experienced than in previous eras, which creates a larger pool of potential future leaders. He was clear that he would love to be considered for such a role, but doesn’t feel he is quite ready. “I would love to throw my name in the hat. I don’t know if I’m ready to do it officially yet. I like the fact that there are the three of us, plus there are tons of other people like Bayley, and Roman [Reigns] will always have a say. Just you’ve got an older locker room now,” he explained. He brought up the difficulty of the job and praised the current head of creative. “Booking the industry isn’t always easy. Triple H is doing a great job, so thankfully we have him for quite some time”.
Currently, Cody Rhodes is in his second reign as Undisputed WWE Champion after defeating John Cena at SummerSlam 2025. He will make his title defense of this reign at the inaugural Wrestlepalooza premium live event on Saturday, September 20. There, he is scheduled to face Drew McIntyre.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article, please credit ESPN with an h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
