Cody Rhodes reacts to a massive honor bestowed on him after capping off an unforgettable year in WWE

The American Nightmare is declared Sports Illustrated's Wrestler of the Year.

Cody Rhodes reacts to a massive honor bestowed on him after capping off an unforgettable year in WWE

Cody Rhodes [via- Wrestle Ops on X]

On New Year’s Eve, Cody Rhodes was conferred with a huge honor. After ending the year having wrestled 113 matches for WWE, the highest, Rhodes remained the company’s poster boy for good measure. Adding another feather to his cap, The American Nightmare was declared the wrestler of 2023 by SI Wrestling.

Unsurprisingly, Cody has reacted to Justin Barrasso’s list. Rhodes noted that he was proud of this achievement. Moreover, he offered his kind words for the rest of the nine names on the list. The runner-up was Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley, while former AEW Champion MJF took third place. Trinity, better known as Naomi, was fourth, and Will Ospreay followed her.

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WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins, who was named WWE’s MVP for 2023 by Cody Rhodes himself, ranked sixth. Rhodes and Rollins recently found themselves on the same team at WarGames. Rhodes had to do everything in his power to convince Seth to render his services for one night.

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Seth was Rhodes’ first WWE opponent when he made his return at WrestleMania 38. In 2023, Rhodes started on a high when he won the Men’s Royal Rumble match.

An amazing honor. Coming from @SInow / @JustinBarrasso I am really and truly proud of this one. Everybody on here is great, honored we share this together. @WWE
Cody Rhodes via X

However, his clash against Roman Reigns was a kick in Cody’s teeth as he succumbed to The Bloodline’s leader at WrestleMania 39. Soon after, Brock Lesnar tried to tear Rhodes apart; however, The Prodigal Son pipped The Beast in a tumultuous trilogy.

Right now, Dusty’s Baby Boy is involved in a tantalizing affair with Shinsuke Nakamura. A couple of weeks ago on Raw, both men fought each other in the main event, which ended in a disqualification when Shin used the poison mist.

What’s on Cody Rhodes’ mind with the onset of 2024?

Despite being continuously tormented by The Artist known as Shinsuke Nakamura, Cody knows what his eventual goal is. Ever since suffering a crushing defeat at the hands of Roman Reigns at WrestleMania, Rhodes has been gunning for one more opportunity.

Cody Rhodes on Raw
Cody Rhodes on Raw [via- WWE on X]

He keeps talking about finishing his story with The Tribal Chief, which, though cliché, has its significance. A few hours ago, the official X handle of WWE on FOX posted last year’s Royal Rumble clip, which saw Cody Rhodes eliminate Gunther to win the entire thing.

You know what we’ve got to do
Cody Rhodes via X

Taking quick notice of it, the 38-year-old from Georgia quoted a reply that made his intentions crystal clear. If he does it again in 2024, Cody will join an elite list of WWE Superstars who have won the coveted Royal Rumble match consecutively.

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