Cody Rhodes Reveals He Nearly Quit Wrestling to Go Back to School After WWE Exit

Cody Rhodes, the current Undisputed WWE Champion, recently revealed that he considered returning to school after his 2016 WWE departure. Speaking candidly on the All The Smoke podcast, Rhodes reflected on a period of self-doubt that followed his exit, when he contemplated pursuing a degree to become a wrestling coach in Georgia. His remarks shed light on the uncertainty he faced before his eventual return to WWE in 2022.

Why Cody Rhodes Left WWE in 2016

In 2016, Cody Rhodes parted ways with WWE to reinvent himself on the independent circuit. During his six-year absence, he competed in ROH, TNA, and New Japan Pro Wrestling, earning recognition as one of the industry’s top free agents. Rhodes later co-founded All Elite Wrestling (AEW), playing a pivotal role in shaping a new era for professional wrestling.

His eventual return to WWE at WrestleMania 38 in 2022 marked a triumphant comeback, culminating in a memorable bout against Seth Rollins and, two years later, a world championship victory that solidified his legacy.

Rhodes on Self-Doubt and Education

Speaking on the All The Smoke podcast, Cody Rhodes admitted that self-doubt was a recurring challenge during his time away from WWE.

“Oh my gosh, all the time,” Rhodes said. “I thought about going and getting a degree because in Georgia, if you have a degree, you can be a wrestling coach. I was really into amateur wrestling — folkstyle, freestyle, Greco-Roman. I thought I’d be a really good coach.”

He added that the idea of pursuing higher education represented the first “plan B” he had ever considered.

“You’re married at the time, no children just yet, but looking to start a family, and you can’t start a family with just nothing… I doubted myself every step of the journey.”

How This Reflects Cody Rhodes’ Career Mindset

Rhodes’ comments underscore the resilience that has defined his professional journey. His willingness to consider alternative paths highlights the uncertainty faced by athletes navigating career transitions. Ultimately, Rhodes’ decision to persevere in wrestling led to one of the most successful returns in WWE history.

Analysts suggest that his story resonates with younger wrestlers balancing career risks with personal growth, illustrating that self-doubt can coexist with long-term ambition.

What’s Next for Cody Rhodes

As of November 2025, Cody Rhodes remains a central figure in WWE programming. Following his title reign, reports indicate potential rivalries leading into WrestleMania 41, with speculation about a rematch against Seth Rollins or a new storyline involving emerging superstars.

Fans can expect further insight into Rhodes’ journey in upcoming interviews and WWE documentaries scheduled later this year.

Sources

• WrestleZone – Cody Rhodes Interview Transcript

• WWE.com – Cody Rhodes Profile

• All The Smoke Podcast