Cody Rhodes Reflects on Controversial AEW Promo Amid National Tensions

NEW YORK, N.Y. — Cody Rhodes, the Undisputed WWE champion, recently spoke about his controversial promo during his time in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) that has garnered significant attention since its airing.

In a June 2021 interview with Barstool Sports, Rhodes reflected on a particularly divisive storyline in which he faced off against Anthony Ogogo. The feud was framed as a battle between the United States and the United Kingdom, with Rhodes representing American ideals.

The tension came to a head on the May 12, 2021, edition of “AEW Dynamite,” when Rhodes delivered a passionate promo discussing American privileges and cultural values. He poignantly expressed pride in being a father to a biracial daughter, intending to relate these themes to his audience.

However, the timing of Rhodes’ remarks sparked widespread criticism from fans and pundits, who felt his nationalistic sentiments were out of touch during a period marked by significant political and racial strife in the United States. Critics labeled the promo as “tone-deaf” and insensitively timed.

During the Barstool interview, Rhodes acknowledged the backlash, stating, “I thought the content was good and I thought the intentions were good. However, a white guy talking about race relations, who has an American flag tattoo on his neck, I can see why people would use the terms ‘tone deaf’ when it came to that.”

Rhodes’ candid admission highlights the ongoing conversation in professional wrestling about the intersection of sports, politics, and race. To this day, his promo remains a contentious topic among wrestling fans and analysts.