Cody Rhodes, the celebrated professional wrestler known as The American Nightmare, has been candid about his life beyond the wrestling ring, particularly regarding his family. His daughter, Liberty Iris Runnels, born on June 18, 2021, is a central figure in his personal life. As of April 2025, Liberty is three years old and will soon be celebrating her fourth birthday. Her arrival marked a significant chapter in Cody's life, blending his identity as a world-class wrestler with that of a devoted father.
The Birth of Liberty Iris Runnels
Rhodes shared the joyous moment of Liberty’s birth with his fans through social media. In a heartfelt post, he wrote, 6lbs 12oz - Liberty Iris Runnels - Mother & Daughter are doing wonderful. The announcement garnered over 114K likes and nearly 5,000 comments, reflecting the widespread admiration for Rhodes and his family. This transparency has endeared him to fans, who appreciate his willingness to share personal milestones.
Cody Rhodes on The Tonight Show
In a recent appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Rhodes discussed various aspects of his life, including his career and family. One particularly endearing moment came when he revealed what his daughter thinks he does for a living. At just two years old during WrestleMania 39, Liberty believed that her father's job was simply WrestleMania. Rhodes humorously explained how this perception arose because her first experience with his profession was witnessing the grandeur of WrestleMania.
This anecdote highlights not only the innocence of childhood but also the larger-than-life nature of WWE events. For young Liberty, WrestleMania isn't just an annual spectacle; it's synonymous with her father's work. Such moments underscore the balance Rhodes strives for between his demanding career and nurturing family environment.
A Protective Father
Beyond his accomplishments in the ring, Rhodes is known for being a protective and loving dad. Fans have seen glimpses of this side through photos and stories shared online. Whether it's ensuring Liberty feels safe or making her smile, Rhodes prioritizes his role as a father. His dedication extends beyond mere appearances—it shapes how he interacts with his child daily.
For instance, when asked about his parenting style, Rhodes mentioned always wanting Liberty to feel happy and secure. This sentiment resonates deeply with parents everywhere, illustrating that even someone at the pinnacle of their profession values creating lasting memories with loved ones.
Family Legacy and Wrestling Heritage
Growing up in a wrestling dynasty, Cody Rhodes carries forward the legacy of his legendary father, Dusty Rhodes. On April 10, 2007, Dusty was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by none other than his sons Dustin and Cody. This moment solidified the family's impact on professional wrestling history.
Today, Cody continues to honor his father's memory while carving out his own path. From sharing adorable pictures of Liberty to discussing her thoughts about his career, every interaction reveals another layer of his character. It’s clear that family remains a cornerstone of his identity, both inside and outside the squared circle.
Fan Engagement and Social Media Presence
Rhodes actively engages with fans across platforms like Instagram and Twitter, offering insights into his personal life alongside updates from WWE. For example, he frequently posts images of Liberty, showcasing her growth and development. These posts often spark conversations among followers, who admire the genuine connection between father and daughter.
Additionally, Rhodes uses these channels to celebrate achievements within the wrestling community. A notable example includes commemorating his victory over Roman Reigns at WrestleMania XL, where he captured the Undisputed WWE Championship. By intertwining professional triumphs with familial warmth, Rhodes maintains a well-rounded public persona that appeals to diverse audiences.
Conclusion: Balancing Stardom and Parenthood
In today's fast-paced entertainment landscape, maintaining authenticity can be challenging. Yet, Cody Rhodes manages to do so effortlessly, whether discussing his daughter's perceptions of his job or reflecting on his storied career. His ability to blend stardom with parenthood serves as inspiration for many aspiring athletes and parents alike.
As Liberty grows older, she'll undoubtedly gain a deeper understanding of her father's profession. Until then, the world watches fondly as Rhodes navigates the complexities of balancing fame with family—a testament to his enduring appeal and humanity.
