Cody Rhodes Soars to No. 1 in PWI 500 for 2025 Wrestling Rankings: WWE and AEW Highlights, Spoilers, and Crown Jewel Results

Cody Rhodes Tops Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s 2025 Rankings

Published September 23, 2025

Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s eagerly anticipated Top 500 rankings are out, and
WWE Champion Cody Rhodes has ascended to the number one position.

Rhodes Claims the Top Spot

The “American Nightmare” secured the prestigious number one ranking after a
stellar performance period, successfully defending the WWE Championship and
establishing himself as a central figure within the company. This marks a
notable achievement in his career, cementing his status among wrestling’s
elite.

The rankings, covering performances from August 1, 2024, through July 31,
2025, reflect a comprehensive evaluation based on multiple criteria central
to professional wrestling success.

The Top 10 Wrestlers of 2025

Here is a look at the top ten wrestlers as recognized by Pro Wrestling
Illustrated for 2025:

Rank	Wrestler
1	Cody Rhodes
2	Jon Moxley
3	gunther
4	“Hangman” Adam Page
5	Hirooki Goto
6	Jey Use
7	Swerve Strickland
8	Seth Rollins
9	Mystical
10	Will Ospreay

Did You Know? Pro Wrestling
Illustrated began publishing its annual rankings in 1979, becoming a
benchmark for evaluating talent in the industry.

Ranking Criteria: A Deep Dive

Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s evaluation process weighs several key components
to determine each wrestler’s placement.These factors include:

• In-Ring Achievement: Championships won, records set, and
  tournament victories achieved.
• Influence: A wrestler’s visibility and prestige, both
  within their promotion and across the wider wrestling world.
• technical Ability: The quality of matches, display of
  skill, and effective in-ring storytelling.
• Competition: Success achieved against top-tier opponents.
• Activity: A minimum of ten singles matches within the
  evaluation period, or six matches across separate months, is required for
  consideration.

Pro Tip: Wrestlers who actively
compete and consistently deliver high-quality performances tend to rank
higher due to the emphasis on activity and competition.

The Enduring Appeal of Wrestling Rankings

Wrestling rankings,like those published by Pro Wrestling Illustrated,
provide a snapshot of the industry’s landscape and serve as a point of
discussion among fans. They spark debate,highlight emerging talent,and
honor established stars. With the continuously evolving nature of wrestling,
these rankings remain a relevant and captivating element of the sport.

As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve, with new promotions and
rising stars, the criteria for determining these rankings will undoubtedly
adapt.However, the core principles of in-ring ability, influence, and
competitive success will likely remain central to the evaluation process.

Frequently Asked questions About PWI Rankings

what is the significance of the PWI 500?

The PWI 500 is considered one of the most prestigious and comprehensive
rankings in professional wrestling,offering a respected assessment of
talent.

How are the PWI rankings determined?

Rankings are based on a combination of in-ring achievement, influence,
technical ability, competition, and activity within a defined timeframe.

What dose it mean to be ranked number one in the PWI 500?

Being ranked number one signifies that a wrestler has had an exceptional
year and is considered the most impactful and triumphant performer in the
industry.

how does activity influence a wrestler’s PWI ranking?

Consistent activity and participation in a sufficient number of matches are
crucial factors, demonstrating a wrestler’s commitment and presence in
the sport.

Are rankings subjective, or are they based on objective data?

While the criteria are defined, there is an element of subjective judgment
involved, as evaluating qualities like “influence” and “technical ability”
inherently involves interpretation.

What are your thoughts on Cody Rhodes’s top ranking? Do you agree with the
list? Share your opinions in the comments below!

How did cody Rhodes’ storyline and in-ring performance contribute to his rise to the No. 1 spot in the PWI 500 rankings?

Cody Rhodes has officially reached the pinnacle of professional wrestling,topping the 2025 Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500. This marks a career-defining moment for “The American Nightmare,” solidifying his position as the top star in the industry. The rankings, released today, reflect a year of compelling storylines, in-ring excellence, and notable impact across both WWE and All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Let’s break down the key highlights, spoilers from the ranking, and the fallout from the recent Crown jewel event.

PWI 500: Top 10 Breakdown (2025)

The PWI 500 isn’t just about wins and losses; it’s a holistic assessment of a wrestler’s influence, drawing power, and overall contribution to the sport. Here’s a look at the top 10 for 2025:

1. Cody Rhodes (WWE) – A year defined by a relentless pursuit of championship glory and captivating storytelling.
2. Samoa Joe (AEW) – Consistent dominance and a reign of terror in AEW propelled Joe to the #2 spot.
3. Roman Reigns (WWE) – Despite a slightly reduced schedule, Reigns’ aura and impact remain undeniable.
4. MJF (AEW) – The Diamond God continues to deliver on his promise, captivating audiences with his charisma and in-ring skills.
5. Gunther (WWE) – The Intercontinental Champion’s brutal style and notable reign earned him significant recognition.
6. Will Ospreay (AEW) – Ospreay’s explosive matches and captivating presence have made him a fan favorite.
7. Bianca Belair (WWE) – A dominant force in the women’s division, Belair consistently delivers stellar performances.
8. Bryan Danielson (AEW) – The American Dragon continues to be a cornerstone of AEW’s in-ring excellence.
9. Seth Rollins (WWE) – Rollins’ consistent work ethic and captivating character work keep him near the top.
10. Jade Cargill (AEW) – Cargill’s undefeated streak and commanding presence solidify her as a top star.

WWE Highlights & key Performers (2024-2025)

WWE experienced a year of significant shifts and compelling narratives. Several performers stood out:

* Cody Rhodes’ Championship Pursuit: Rhodes’ journey to finally capture the WWE Championship after years of striving was a central storyline, driving significant viewership and fan engagement. His feud with Roman Reigns, while ultimately unsuccessful at wrestlemania, was a critical component of his rise.

* Gunther’s Intercontinental Championship Reign: Gunther’s record-breaking reign as Intercontinental Champion was a highlight, showcasing a commitment to classic wrestling and brutal in-ring action.

* Bianca Belair’s Continued Dominance: Belair’s consistent performance and captivating presence cemented her status as a top female star. Her matches against Rhea Ripley were consistently praised.

* Seth Rollins’ Versatility: rollins continued to demonstrate his adaptability, excelling as both a heel and a face, and consistently delivering memorable matches.

AEW Standouts & championship Landscape (2024-2025)

AEW continued to deliver innovative wrestling and compelling storylines, with several stars rising to prominence:

* Samoa Joe’s AEW World Championship Reign: Joe’s dominant run as AEW World Champion was a defining moment, showcasing his veteran experience and ruthless aggression.

* MJF’s Continued Reign as “The Diamond God”: MJF’s character work and in-ring skills continued to captivate audiences, solidifying his position as a top heel.

* will Ospreay’s Impactful Arrival: Ospreay’s arrival in AEW was a major coup, and he quickly established himself as a main event player.

* Jade Cargill’s Undefeated streak: Cargill’s continued dominance and undefeated streak made her a force to be reckoned with in the women’s division.

crown Jewel 2025: Results & Implications

The recent Crown Jewel event in Riyadh,Saudi Arabia,had a significant impact on the PWI 500 rankings and the overall wrestling landscape. Key results included:

* Roman Reigns Defeats Cody Rhodes (Steel Cage Match): In a brutal and highly anticipated rematch, Roman Reigns defeated Cody Rhodes in a Steel Cage match, retaining his Und