During a recent episode of All The Smoke with Matt Barnes, Cody Rhodes spoke openly about his rivalry with Seth Rollins and how WWE handles injuries today. He shared personal details that give fans a clear view of the changes in the company.
Living Through a Torn Pec Without Strong Painkillers
Rhodes explained that he entered Hell in a Cell 2022 with a torn pectoral muscle. He said the company’s strict drug free policy meant he took only a few baby aspirin. He noted, “WWE is very adamant about there is no substance abuse in this company anymore. None. The 80s are over. We have to be healthy, we have to be clean.” This quote shows his commitment to competing clean.
Balancing Pain and Performance
Looking at a photo from that match, Rhodes recalled being told, “If you are in pain we are going to stop it. There is nothing to prove here.” He described walking a tight rope for the entire match, unsure if the bell would ring. He added that Seth Rollins was the perfect opponent for that night. Rhodes also mentioned that the two recently faced each other at Crown Jewel, where Rollins finally earned a win.
Understanding Rollins’ Injury
When asked about Rollins’ injury, Rhodes admitted he does not know the exact details. He only said that Rollins went under the knife and had surgery. This honest answer reflects the new level of transparency in the locker room.
A Shift From Powering Through to Athlete Care
Rhodes highlighted a clear shift in WWE’s attitude toward injuries. He said, “We do not power through anymore. That might have been the very last example of ‘Hey, let us power through.’ You just have more athlete conscious people today.” This statement underscores a growing focus on athlete health and safety.
Why Fans Should Care
Fans benefit from this new culture because wrestlers can perform at their best without risking long term damage. The change also builds trust between the audience and the performers. When Cody Rhodes talks about his own experience, it gives a real glimpse into how WWE protects its talent.
Overall, Rhodes’ interview paints a picture of a company that is moving away from a risky past and toward a healthier future for its athletes.
Source: Wrestleview
