The name Cody Runnels was a well-known one in Georgia wrestling circles in the early 2000s. The Lassiter wrestler won an individual state wrestling title in 2003 and 2004. He finished his junior year a perfect 48-0 on the mat.
But his name recognition back then pales in comparison to his fame across wrestling fans today. Runnels, now known as Cody Rhodes, has wrestled for the WWE, claimed the Intercontinental Championship and tag team title and held numerous other championship belts. He’s also the son of wrestler “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes and half-brother of professional wrestler Dustin Rhodes, also known as Golddust. He’s married to wrestler Brandi Rhodes.
Just over a year ago, Rhodes signed on to a new wrestling venture, All Elite Wrestling. Rhodes serves as both an executive vice president and on-air talent. His wife serves as the company’s chief brand officer.
Rhodes will return to his hometown on Wednesday, Feb. 19 as All Elite Wrestling brings its first-ever show to Atlanta. State Farm Arena will host the company’s weekly show “Dynamite.”
The Atlanta show will feature a steel cage match with Rhodes battling Wardlow, leading up to his bout with former protégé MJF, who viciously turned against him. There’s a tag team battle royal on the card with AEW World Tag Team Championship implications.
In honor of American Heart Month, AEW is in midst of a special collaboration with the American Heart Association in Atlanta. Anyone who donates $50 or more to the AHA’s Atlanta branch will receive two tickets to the show at State Farm Arena.
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