Cody Rhodes Shares Insights on the Two Signature Matches He Teaches His Wrestling Students

cody Rhodes Reveals Wrestling Masterclasses for Aspiring Stars

LOS ANGELES, CA – WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes has shared teh two pivotal matches he uses to educate the next generation of professional wrestlers at his Nightmare Factory training school.In a recent appearance on the “Hot Ones” interview series, Rhodes revealed his curriculum centers around two classic bouts: Sting versus Ric Flair from the 1990 Great American Bash and Bret Hart against Mr. Perfect at SummerSlam 1991.

Rhodes explained the selections represent foundational elements of compelling storytelling within the squared circle. The intense rivalry and dramatic flair of Flair and Sting’s encounter showcase how to build a captivating narrative, while Hart’s technical precision and Mr. Perfect’s arrogant confidence demonstrate the art of in-ring psychology.

“We watch two, and I actually have to kind of think. There’s so many you could use as a third,” Rhodes stated, according to Wrestling Inc. “The first one we watch is Sting versus Ric flair from The Great American Bash. second one is we watch Bret Hart versus Mr. Perfect from SummerSlam.”

Rhodes also hinted at a potential third addition to the curriculum: his own WrestleMania 40 performance. Reflecting on his journey back to WWE after a period away from the company, he described the opportunity to main event WrestleMania as a culmination of perseverance and a testament to earning one’s place.

“I might say WrestleMania 40… I went from being the guy who was away from there, trash talking it, started a whole another thing, and to come in, earn my place back, and then them say, ‘Hey, it’s all yours.’ Like literally, how?”

Why These Matches Matter: A Legacy of Wrestling Excellence

The selections made by Rhodes aren’t arbitrary. Both matches are widely considered benchmarks for professional wrestling excellence.

Sting vs. Ric Flair (Great American Bash 1990): This “I Quit” match is a masterclass in building drama and utilizing a heated rivalry. The physicality and psychological warfare on display set a standard for intense, character-driven contests.
Bret Hart vs. Mr. perfect (SummerSlam 1991): This Intercontinental Championship match is celebrated for its technical brilliance and storytelling.Hart’s precision and Perfect’s calculated arrogance created a compelling dynamic that captivated audiences.By studying these matches, Rhodes aims to instill in his students not just the physical skills required for success, but also the crucial understanding of how to connect with an audience and create memorable moments. The inclusion of a potential third match – his own WrestleMania 40 bout – underscores the importance of personal narrative and the power of overcoming adversity in professional wrestling.

How does Cody Rhodes’ emphasis on understanding the “why” behind wrestling moves contribute to a wrestler’s long-term success?

The Core Beliefs: Building a Foundation in Wrestling Fundamentals

Cody Rhodes, known for his captivating in-ring presence adn storytelling ability, isn’t just a performer; he’s a dedicated student of the game and, increasingly, a respected teacher.He frequently emphasizes that while flashy moves grab attention, a wrestler’s longevity and success hinge on mastering fundamental techniques.This philosophy directly informs the two signature matches he prioritizes when working with aspiring professional wrestlers: the technical wrestling match and the American professional wrestling style match. Thes aren’t simply about learning holds or high-flying maneuvers; they’re about understanding why those moves work and how to build a compelling narrative within the squared circle. Understanding wrestling psychology is key to success in both styles.

The Technical Wrestling Match: Precision and Storytelling

rhodes consistently highlights the importance of a strong technical foundation. He believes this style, rooted in catch wrestling and submission holds, teaches control, pacing, and – crucially – how to tell a story without relying on high-impact moves.

Key Elements Rhodes Emphasizes:

Chain Wrestling: Seamless transitions between holds, demonstrating control and adaptability. Rhodes stresses the importance of knowing what the next logical hold is, not just memorizing a sequence.

Submission Holds: Proper application and understanding of leverage, pain compliance, and the psychology of making a submission look believable. He often references Dean Malenko’s expertise in this area.

Mat Work: Beyond simply escaping holds, Rhodes focuses on using the mat to create favorable positions and control the opponent.

Pace and ring awareness: Controlling the tempo of the match and utilizing the entire ring space to build tension.

Selling: Reacting realistically to holds and strikes, conveying the impact of the offense.

Benefits for Aspiring Wrestlers:

Improved Ring IQ: Technical wrestling demands strategic thinking and problem-solving.

Enhanced Control & Safety: Mastering control techniques minimizes the risk of injury for both wrestlers.

Versatility: A strong technical base allows wrestlers to adapt to different opponents and styles.

Credibility: Demonstrates a commitment to the art of wrestling, earning respect from peers and fans.

The American Professional Wrestling Style Match: Blending Athleticism and Drama

While valuing technical prowess, Rhodes also recognizes the unique appeal of the American professional wrestling style – the style popularized by promotions like WWE and AEW. This style blends athleticism, charisma, and dramatic storytelling.He teaches students how to effectively combine these elements to create captivating matches.

Core Components Rhodes Focuses On:

Impactful Offense: Learning to deliver and receive moves with maximum impact while maintaining safety. This includes understanding bump techniques.

Character Work: Developing a compelling persona and incorporating it into every aspect of the match. Rhodes often discusses his own evolution as a character.

Crowd Engagement: Learning to connect with the audience through facial expressions, body language, and strategic moments.

Signature Moves & Finishers: Developing unique moves that define a wrestler’s identity. Rhodes emphasizes the importance of a believable and impactful finisher.

Spot Calling & Match Structure: Understanding how to build a match with peaks and valleys, utilizing spots (planned sequences) to tell a story.

Real-World Example: Rhodes’ Own Career

Cody Rhodes’ career exemplifies the blend of these two styles. His early work in WWE showcased his athleticism, but it was his self-reliant run, where he embraced a more character-driven and technically sound approach, that truly elevated his profile. His matches with Jay Lethal and Zack Sabre Jr. are frequently enough cited as examples of his technical capabilities, while his feuds with Chris Jericho and Wardlow demonstrate his mastery of the American style.

Bridging the Gap: The Importance of a well-Rounded Skillset

Rhodes doesn’t view these two styles as mutually exclusive. He believes the most successful wrestlers are those who can seamlessly blend elements of both. A wrestler with a strong technical foundation can make their high-flying moves more believable and impactful.Conversely, a wrestler with charisma and storytelling ability can elevate even the simplest technical hold.

practical Tips for Students:

Film Study: Watch matches from a variety of eras and styles, analyzing the techniques and storytelling choices of different wrestlers.

Seek Feedback: Actively solicit constructive criticism from experienced wrestlers and trainers.

Embrace Versatility: Don’t limit yourself to one style. Experiment with different techniques and approaches.

* Focus on the Story: always remember that wrestling is about telling a compelling story.

The Influence