Cody Rhodes Confirms New WWE Contract, Vows to Retire with the Company

In a candid interview, Cody Rhodes revealed he has signed a multi-year extension with WWE and intends to finish his wrestling career under the WWE banner, ending speculation about a potential move to rival promotions.

**Lead**

Cody Rhodes, the reigning Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, announced on Monday that he has re-signed with World Wrestling Entertainment on a long-term contract and plans to retire with the company. The revelation came during an appearance on the “Impaulsive” podcast, where Rhodes stated unequivocally that he intends to finish his in-ring career in WWE, putting to rest months of rumors linking him to All Elite Wrestling or other promotions. The new deal, which Rhodes described as “the final contract of my career,” solidifies his status as a cornerstone of the modern WWE roster.

**Context**

Rhodes, 39, returned to WWE at WrestleMania 38 in April 2022 after a six-year absence that saw him help launch AEW as an executive and top star. His comeback was widely regarded as one of the most significant in recent wrestling history. Over the past two years, he has main-evented back-to-back WrestleManias, culminating in his victory over Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40 in April 2024 to capture the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. That win fulfilled a promise he made to his late father, Dusty Rhodes, and cemented his legacy as a top-tier performer.

Since then, Rhodes has defended his title against a rotating cast of challengers, including AJ Styles, Solo Sikoa, and most recently Drew McIntyre at SummerSlam. His contract status had been a subject of intense speculation, particularly after AEW president Tony Khan publicly expressed interest in bringing Rhodes back to the promotion he co-founded. However, Rhodes has consistently maintained that his focus is on WWE, and Monday’s announcement appears to close the door on any potential departure.

**Analysis**

Rhodes’ decision to re-sign with WWE carries significant implications for the wrestling landscape. For WWE, retaining Rhodes ensures continuity at the top of the card during a period of corporate transition following the merger with Endeavor to form TKO Group Holdings. Rhodes is not only a proven box-office draw but also a key figure in WWE’s international expansion, particularly in markets like India and the United Kingdom. His commitment to retiring with the company also provides a stable narrative arc for fans, who can now follow his journey toward a definitive end to his career.

From a competitive standpoint, Rhodes’ loyalty to WWE deals a blow to AEW’s efforts to reclaim momentum. AEW has struggled to maintain ratings consistency in 2024, and the loss of a potential marquee signing like Rhodes would have been a major setback. Instead, WWE can continue building storylines around Rhodes’ championship reign, potentially leading to a historic third consecutive WrestleMania main event in 2025. Industry analysts note that Rhodes’ contract likely includes creative control and a reduced schedule, allowing him to extend his career while mentoring younger talent.

**Sources**

- Cody Rhodes’ appearance on the “Impaulsive” podcast, October 7, 2024. - WWE official website and social media statements regarding Rhodes’ contract extension. - Reporting by ESPN’s Marc Raimondi and Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select on contract negotiations. - Previous interviews with Rhodes on “The Pat McAfee Show” and “The Bump” discussing his career plans.