Cody Rhodes Reflects on His 2016 WWE Exit and the Power of Fan Support

Speaking on the Rich Eisen Show, Cody Rhodes revisited his decision to leave WWE on May 21, 2016, a move prompted by creative differences and an unsatisfying run. After requesting and receiving his release, Rhodes rebuilt his career across the independent scene, Impact Wrestling and NJPW, playing a pivotal role in the All In event that helped spawn AEW; he said the social media outpouring and fans buying tickets to small shows turned what he called a “big bluff” into a real career trajectory.

Rhodes explained that the suit-and-tie bravado he portrayed stopped being a performance the moment fans stood behind him, crediting that fandom and a trusted circle of collaborators for his rise. He remains at the top of the wrestling world and is slated to defend the Undisputed title against Gunther at Clash in Italy on May 31, 2026.
Originally reported by Wrestling Observer: https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/cody-rhodes-reflects-on-his-2016-wwe-exit-decision-this-is-a-big-card-game/.