Cody Rhodes Reveals Dusty Rhodes Envisioned 2007 WWE Hall of Fame Induction as Son’s Launchpad
WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes shared insights into a previously undisclosed ambition of his late father, the legendary Dusty Rhodes, revealing the Hall of Famer intended his 2007 WWE Hall of Fame induction to serve as a “coming out party” for Cody’s own wrestling career. Rhodes detailed the story during an appearance on the “What Do You Wanna Talk About?” podcast, highlighting the weight of his father’s legacy and the pressure he feels when discussing him publicly.
The revelation adds a new layer to the emotional significance of Dusty Rhodes’ Hall of Fame moment, coinciding with Cody’s first WrestleMania week. Rhodes expressed surprise at his father’s recollection,noting Dusty rarely spoke about the event,and that Cody didn’t even see him until the day of the induction. This underscores the often-private nature of the Rhodes family dynamic, even amidst public success.
Rhodes explained he consciously approaches speaking about his father with careful consideration, acknowledging fans’ perception of dusty as an unparalleled orator. “There’s an expectation,” Rhodes said. “The way he spoke and just legit breathed fire, basically.” He feels compelled to live up to that standard whenever he discusses his father’s impact on the industry.
the conversation also touched on the possibility of a future WWE Hall of fame induction for Cody’s brother, Dustin Rhodes. Cody jokingly proposed he would deliver an impersonation of their father – and even a rendition of Bruce Prichard’s famous Dusty Rhodes impersonation – should that occasion arise. “I’d commit to, as I’ve asked myself ‘What would he say?’ and I feel [I’m] the expert, at least on what he would – how he would talk about his other son,” Rhodes stated.