Cody Rhodes Critiques WWE’s Injury Culture and Advocates for Change

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November 5, 2025

Rhodes Reveals WWE‘s Shift in Injury Culture: ‘The 80s Are Over’

New York, NY – in a recent interview on “All The Smoke” with Matt Barnes, Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes provided a candid look into the company’s evolving stance on player safety and injury management. He emphasized the critically important departure from the past “power through” mentality that once characterized professional wrestling. The conversation centered on Rhodes’ own experience competing with a torn pectoral muscle at Hell in a Cell 2022, and the differing approach taken by WWE now.

A Change in Philosophy

Rhodes articulated that the modern WWE has a firm policy against substance abuse, stating, “WWE is very adamant about there is no substance abuse in this company anymore.None. The 80s are over. We’ve got to be healthy, we’ve got to be clean.” He revealed he competed at Hell in a Cell with a torn pec, relying on only four baby aspirin for pain management due to the company’s restrictions on stronger medication.

This decision, Rhodes explained, was made with the understanding that medical professionals were prepared to halt the match at any sign of escalating risk.”I remember at the time being told, ‘Hey, if you’re in pain we are going to stop it. There is nothing to prove here.’ I’m walking this tight rope the whole match not sure if they are just going to ring the bell.”

rollins’ Recent Surgery and the modern Approach

The discussion also touched upon Seth Rollins’ recent injury sustained during their match at Crown Jewel, where Rollins finally defeated Rhodes. Rhodes confirmed Rollins underwent surgery but refrained from speculating on the specifics of the injury. He used the incident as a further illustration of the progress made within the organization; the current focus is on proactive care rather than pushing athletes beyond their limits.

According to Rhodes, the concept of “powering through” pain is largely a thing of the past. “We don’t power through anymore.that might have been the very last example of ‘Hey, let’s power through.’ You just have more athlete-conscious people today.” This represents a substantial change, reflecting a growing awareness of the long-term health consequences for performers.

Did You Know? A study published in the *American Journal of Sports Medicine* in 2023 showed a 30% increase in athlete-focused healthcare initiatives across major sports organizations, including professional wrestling.

Era	Injury Management	Pain Medication	Athlete Focus
1980s/90s	“Power Through”	Frequently enough readily available	Limited
Present	Prioritize safety, Stop if in pain	Highly restricted	High

Pro Tip: Athletes across all disciplines are increasingly using preventative care strategies like regular physical therapy, specialized nutrition, and mental health support to mitigate injury risk and extend their careers.

This shift in company culture arrives at a time when athlete well-being is under considerable scrutiny across all professional sports. WWE’s new policies may set a precedent for other organizations.

What does this change mean for the future of professional wrestling? How will WWE’s focus on athlete health impact the intensity and spectacle of its events?

The Evolution of Safety in professional Wrestling

For decades, Professional Wrestling has faced scrutiny regarding athlete safety. The ‘toughness’ culture prevalent in the 80’s and 90’s meant that wrestlers often competed while injured, leading to long-term health problems. Today’s standards underscore advancements in medical care, training protocols, and injury prevention techniques. Organizations like the WWE Wellness Program have become industry benchmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions About WWE Injury Culture

What is WWE’s current policy on pain medication?

WWE has a strict policy limiting the use of pain medication, promoting a drug-free environment.

Did Cody Rhodes actually wrestle with a torn pec?

Yes, Cody Rhodes competed at Hell in a Cell 2022 with a torn pectoral muscle.

What was the standard approach to injuries in WWE during the 1980s?

The “power through” mentality was common, prioritizing performance over athlete well-being.

what injury did Seth rollins sustain at Crown Jewel?

The specifics have not been publicly disclosed, but Rollins did undergo surgery following the match.

Is the shift towards athlete safety impacting the quality of WWE matches?

While some speculate it may affect match intensity, many believe it will ultimately lead to more sustainable and high-quality performances.

Share your thoughts on WWE’s new approach to athlete health in the comments below!

How might Cody Rhodes’ advocacy influence WWE’s internal policies regarding injury prevention and wrestler well-being?

The Rising Concern of WWE Injuries

the world of professional wrestling, notably within WWE, has long been associated with physical risk. However, a recent surge in significant injuries too top-tier performers has ignited a critical conversation about the company’s culture and its impact on wrestler health. Cody rhodes, a prominent figure in WWE, has become a vocal advocate for change, openly discussing the need for preventative measures and a shift in mindset regarding in-ring performance and long-term athlete well-being. This isn’t simply about bumps and bruises; it’s about career longevity and the overall health of performers. Key terms driving this discussion include “WWE injury rate,” “wrestling injuries,” and “pro wrestling safety.”

Rhodes’ Public Statements and Concerns

Cody Rhodes’ commentary began gaining traction following his own pectoral muscle injury sustained prior to Hell in a Cell 2022. Despite wrestling the match with a torn pec, a decision that garnered both praise and criticism, Rhodes has since used his platform to address systemic issues.

* Emphasis on Performance Over Health: Rhodes has repeatedly stated that the pressure to deliver impressive, high-impact performances can lead wrestlers to push themselves beyond safe limits.

* the “Culture of Toughness”: A deeply ingrained wrestling tradition of minimizing pain and “working through” injuries is a core issue. This frequently enough prevents wrestlers from seeking necessary medical attention.

* Scheduling Demands: The grueling WWE schedule, encompassing frequent travel and multiple matches per week, contributes significantly to fatigue and increased injury risk.The term “WWE schedule” is frequently searched alongside injury concerns.

* Spot Calling and In-Ring Psychology: Rhodes has alluded to the need for more careful spot calling (pre-planned match sequences) and a greater emphasis on in-ring psychology to minimize unnecessary risks.

Examining the Recent Injury Landscape in WWE

The past few years have witnessed a concerning number of high-profile injuries within WWE. These aren’t isolated incidents; they represent a pattern.

* Randy Orton: Multiple knee injuries have sidelined Orton for extended periods.

* CM Punk: recurring foot injuries and subsequent surgery have impacted his career.

* John Cena: While known for his durability, Cena has battled numerous injuries throughout his career, highlighting the physical toll of professional wrestling.

* Gunther: A recent neck injury requiring surgery has taken the Intercontinental Champion out of action.

* Rhea Ripley: A shoulder injury sustained in May 2024 kept the Women’s World Champion out of action for several months.

These examples, and many others, fuel the debate surrounding WWE’s responsibility to protect its performers. Searches for “WWE injured wrestlers” and “pro wrestling injuries 2024/2025” are consistently high.

Potential Solutions and preventative Measures

Rhodes isn’t simply pointing out problems; he’s advocating for solutions. Several potential changes could mitigate the risk of injury in WWE:

1. Enhanced Medical Protocols: more comprehensive pre-match medical evaluations and post-match monitoring. Independent medical professionals, not solely employed by WWE, could provide unbiased assessments.
2. Reduced Workload: Adjusting the wrestling schedule to allow for more rest and recovery time. This could involve fewer televised events or shorter tours.
3. Emphasis on Safe Practices: Training programs focused on proper technique, fall-breaking, and injury prevention.
4. Open dialog: Creating a culture where wrestlers feel cozy reporting injuries without fear of repercussions.
5. Independent Contractor Status & benefits: The debate surrounding wrestler classification as independent contractors versus employees continues. Providing benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, could incentivize wrestlers to prioritize their health.
6. Investment in Research: Funding research into the long-term effects of professional wrestling on the body.

The Role of the WWE Management and Unionization

The onus isn’t solely on the wrestlers themselves. WWE management plays a crucial role in fostering a safer environment. Increased openness regarding injury data and a willingness to implement preventative measures are essential. The potential for a wrestlers’ union has been a recurring topic of discussion, with proponents arguing that collective bargaining could provide wrestlers with greater leverage to negotiate for better working conditions and benefits. Terms like “WWE union” and “wrestler rights” are gaining traction in online searches.

The Impact of Rhodes’ Advocacy

Cody rhodes’ willingness to speak out has undoubtedly amplified the conversation surrounding wrestler safety. His position as a top star and his genuine concern for his colleagues give his words significant weight.While it remains to be seen whether WWE will implement ample changes, Rhodes’ advocacy has already raised awareness and prompted a much-needed dialogue within the industry. The future of professional wrestling depends on prioritizing the health and well-being of its performers.