The world of professional wrestling often blurs the lines between reality and entertainment, but for Cody Rhodes, it’s a unique challenge to explain his profession to his young daughter. Recently, Cody Rhodes appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, where he discussed what his daughter thinks he does for a living. This insight offers a fascinating glimpse into how children perceive their parents' high-profile careers.
Cody Rhodes: A Star in the WWE Spotlight
Cody Garrett Runnels Rhodes, born on June 30, 1985, is an American professional wrestler currently signed to WWE, where he performs on the SmackDown brand. Known as The American Nightmare, Rhodes has carved out a storied career in wrestling, achieving numerous accolades, including winning the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 39. Despite his success in the ring, his role as a father adds another layer of complexity to his life.
What Does Cody Rhodes’ Daughter Think He Does?
During his appearance on The Tonight Show, Rhodes revealed that his daughter, Liberty Iris Runnels, believes his job is simply WrestleMania. Given that her first experience with her father's career was at WrestleMania, this perception makes perfect sense from a child's perspective. At just four years old, Liberty associates her dad's work with the grandeur and spectacle of the annual event rather than the day-to-day grind of training and competing.
Rhodes shared that explaining the nuances of professional wrestling to a young child can be challenging. For Liberty, the concept of wrestling might seem abstract, but the excitement and energy of WrestleMania leave a lasting impression. As any parent knows, children have a way of simplifying complex ideas into terms they understand, and for Liberty, her dad's job boils down to one iconic event.
A Protective Father and a Daddy’s Girl
Cody Rhodes is not only a celebrated athlete but also a devoted father. Fans have seen glimpses of his family life through social media posts, showcasing heartwarming moments with Liberty. These images highlight the bond between father and daughter, emphasizing the importance of balancing fame with family responsibilities.
Liberty, born on June 18, 2021, is growing up in the spotlight, surrounded by the vibrant world of professional wrestling. However, Rhodes ensures that his daughter remains grounded, prioritizing her happiness and well-being above all else. In interviews, he often speaks about being a protective dad, ensuring that Liberty feels loved and secure, even amidst the chaos of the wrestling industry.
Legacy and Family Ties
The Rhodes name carries significant weight in the wrestling community, with Cody following in the footsteps of his legendary father, Dusty Rhodes. When asked about passing on the family legacy, Cody acknowledges the pressure but embraces it with pride. His daughter may not fully grasp the historical significance of her last name yet, but she undoubtedly senses the passion and dedication her father pours into his craft.
In April 2023, Brandi Rhodes, Cody's wife and fellow wrestler, addressed comments made by Gunther on WWE SmackDown regarding their daughter. Such moments underscore the challenges faced by public figures when navigating personal lives in the public eye. Nevertheless, Cody remains steadfast in protecting his family while continuing to excel in his career.
Conclusion: Balancing Fame and Family
For Cody Rhodes, wrestling is more than just a job—it's a passion, a legacy, and a way of life. Yet, outside the ring, he cherishes his role as a father, striving to provide stability and love for his daughter, Liberty. Through candid discussions like those on The Tonight Show, fans gain a deeper understanding of the man behind the mask and the priorities that guide his decisions both inside and outside the squared circle.
As Liberty grows older, she will undoubtedly develop a fuller appreciation for her father's accomplishments. Until then, WrestleMania serves as the perfect encapsulation of Cody Rhodes' world—a world filled with excitement, dedication, and, most importantly, family.
