The word around town is that an AEW elite might be returning back to the promotion. The elite in question is WWE’s top face, Cody Rhodes. The star might soon leave WWE despite WWE making an offer to keep him at the promotion after his contract expiry. However, whether he will return to AEW or not is still debatable.
Is Cody Rhodes leaving WWE?
According to reports published by Fightful, sources close to Cody Rhodes claimed that WWE offered to renew The American Nightmare‘s contract in October 2023. But for some reason, the 38-year-old star has decided not to re-sign with WWE for now. A deal is set to be done between Rhodes and WWE. However, there are no updates on it yet. Extended Rhodes’ contract is said to be the top priority following the TKO merger. It is fairly reasonable considering the impactful run he had in the year 2023.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
For what it's worth, sources close to Cody Rhodes claim he was offered the new contract by WWE in October, but has not signed it.
A deal is expected to be done. pic.twitter.com/e6rPDJwS7D
— Fightful Wrestling (@Fightful) December 23, 2023
This could mean that the former AEW star could make his way back to AEW. Rhodes was one of the elites who helped Tony Khan establish AEW back in 2019. He was one of the Executive Vice Presidents of the Jacksonville-based promotion. However, he left AEW in February 2022 to make his return to WWE. While there are reports that the deal is not signed yet, other sources claim that the deal has been extended.
According to Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer, the deal might have already been struck between the two parties. The reason behind this speculation is the fact that Rhodes has his private tour bus. Apart from that, the timing and circumstances of the claims are quite similar to that of Charlotte Flair.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
According to Meltzer, The Queen of WWE extended her contract with WWE back in October. It was around the same time when claims of Rhodes’ contract extension came to light. It is reported that Flair has been offered a huge amount which is considered to be the highest in the history of women’s division, Along with that, she has been allotted a private tour bus, similar to that of Rhodes and Randy Orton.
Read More| Cody Rhodes Earns a Golden Opportunity as Finalists for WWE 2023 Match of the Year Gets Announced
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The tour bus and the time at which the contracts were decided to be extended are the common factors between Flair and Rhodes. Due to this, many believe that Rhodes might have already signed the contract. Rhodes has proven to be a worthy asset for the company. His merch sales were record-breaking in 2023. Do you think Rhodes has already signed the contract? If so why do you think he is hiding it from his fans?
Watch This Story: 5 Deserving WWE Stars Who Never Main Evented WrestleMania