WWE’s Cody Rhodes Names The Opponent Who Gave Him His Most Non-Fake Matches
Cody Rhodes, Undisputed WWE Champion, has had his fair share of intense matches in his illustrious wrestling career. However, as he revealed recently, the matches that felt the most “non-fake” to him came during his bouts with Brock Lesnar in 2023. These matches not only tested his physical limits but also redefined his understanding of what it means to wrestle at the highest level.
The Realities of Wrestling
While professional wrestling is widely recognized as entertainment, the risks and physical demands are very real. As Rhodes stated on the podcast “2 Bears, 1 Cave,” his trilogy of matches with Brock Lesnar stood out for their intensity and authenticity.
“The three matches I had with Brock Lesnar are the most competitive [ones I’ve had],” Rhodes shared. “When you’re in the ring with a monster like him, you have to earn every move. It’s not just about executing a spot; it’s about truly working for it.”
This level of competitiveness, Rhodes explained, brought an entirely new layer of realism to their matches. He described feeling “scared” during these encounters, something he had never experienced before in either professional or amateur wrestling.
Brock Lesnar: The Freak Athlete
Cody Rhodes spoke highly of Lesnar, calling him a “freak athlete” who changed his perspective on wrestling. According to Rhodes, the matches weren’t merely a give-and-take performance; they required a raw and real approach. This experience has left a lasting impression on him, influencing his matches going forward.
“I look back at those three matches lovingly and so proud of the body of work we put up,” Rhodes said. “That was the most real it had ever been for me in the ring. It gave me a whole new education.”
These matches not only pushed Rhodes to his limits but also set the stage for his monumental victory at WrestleMania in 2024, where he claimed the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Controversy Surrounding Brock Lesnar
While Lesnar’s athleticism and impact on Rhodes’ career are undeniable, his name has recently been tied to a serious scandal. Lesnar has been absent from WWE following allegations of involvement in a sex trafficking scandal that shook the wrestling world earlier this year. The scandal involved accusations against former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, with Lesnar reportedly implicated as a “former UFC Champion” involved in the trafficking aspect.
These allegations have tarnished Lesnar’s reputation and left a shadow over his storied wrestling career. However, Cody Rhodes’ reflections on their matches focus solely on the unparalleled intensity and authenticity that Lesnar brought to the ring.
A New Chapter for Cody Rhodes
Cody Rhodes has carried the lessons learned from his matches with Brock Lesnar into 2024, solidifying himself as one of the most dynamic and resilient performers in WWE. His victory at WrestleMania marked a new era for the Undisputed WWE Champion, proving that his dedication to the craft and willingness to face his fears have paid off.
For Rhodes, the three matches with Lesnar will remain a pivotal chapter in his career. These bouts were not just battles for supremacy; they were moments that blurred the line between performance and reality, showcasing the raw power and skill required to thrive in professional wrestling.
Conclusion
Cody Rhodes’ revelation about his intense encounters with Brock Lesnar underscores the physical and emotional challenges of professional wrestling. These matches tested his resilience, redefined his approach, and ultimately shaped him into the champion he is today. As the scandal surrounding Lesnar continues to unfold, Rhodes’ reflections stand as a testament to the enduring power of authentic competition in the WWE.
