Cody Rhodes Announces Next WWE Deal Will Be His Last, Eyes WrestleMania 42
Cody Rhodes has definitively addressed speculation surrounding his future in professional wrestling, stating that his next contract with WWE will be his last. The former Undisputed WWE Champion made the announcement during an appearance on ESPN’s ‘Unsportsmanlike’ program, signaling a commitment to conclude his career with the company where his story has recently unfolded.
A Final Chapter with WWE
Rhodes, who famously departed WWE years ago to forge his own path and ultimately return to a hero’s welcome, expressed a desire to finish his career within the WWE framework. “I don’t have an end date like I used to. I do know that whatever the next deal that I sign with WWE, I ain’t going nowhere, that next deal will be the last,” Rhodes stated.
Evolving Landscape of Wrestling Longevity
At 40 years old, Rhodes doesn’t believe age is a limiting factor in his performance. He pointed to the continued success of veteran performers as evidence of a changing dynamic within the industry. “Wrestling’s so unique in terms of it’s hard to determine your time. Especially in 2026, with the level of athlete that you can grow to be,” he explained.
Rhodes cited Brock Lesnar, Roman Reigns and CM Punk as examples of wrestlers performing at a peak level despite their experience. “Look at what Brock [Lesnar] is doing currently at this level, he’s in peak form. Roman, older, peak form. Punk, Punk is the best he’s ever been. So age is really not what it used to be in the industry.” News18
Focus on Elimination Chamber and WrestleMania 42
Rhodes’ immediate focus is on the upcoming Elimination Chamber event in Chicago this Saturday, where he will compete against Randy Orton, Je’Von Evans, Trick Williams, LA Knight, and Jey Uso. The winner of the match will earn a guaranteed Undisputed WWE Championship opportunity against Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas.
WWE’s Growth and ESPN Partnership
Rhodes also reflected on WWE’s recent success and the groundbreaking partnership with ESPN, which will see Premium Live Events move to ESPN platforms beginning in 2026. He described the partnership as a “perfect match,” highlighting ESPN’s position as a leader in sports media. WrestlingNews.co
He revealed that the deal was kept secret from the talent roster, with he and others being informed only to be available for a major announcement. WrestlingNews.co
Rhodes emphasized that WWE, under the leadership of Nick Khan and Paul “Triple H” Levesque, is continuing to break records and strive for further growth. WrestlingNews.co