WWE fans are celebrating a joyful milestone for the Rhodes family as WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and his wife Brandi Rhodes have announced the birth of their second daughter, Leilani Ella Runnels. The news was shared publicly on August 29, 2025, catching many by surprise since the couple had kept the pregnancy under wraps.
Surprise Announcement Shocks Wrestling World
Brandi Rhodes shared the heartwarming news through her Instagram account, posting a touching photo featuring tiny baby hands alongside an emotional caption: “Welcome to the world Leilani Ella Runnels. We are in love. Thank you God for answered prayers. Cody + Brandi + Libby + Lani = ❤️” Cody Rhodes also acknowledged the addition on his social media, writing simply, “Three taps on the ground. My Leilani”—a phrase meaningful to his wrestling persona and fans alike[1][3][5].
The Rhodes family had previously welcomed their first daughter, Liberty Iris Runnels, in June 2021. For the couple, Leilani’s arrival represents an expansion of their private life away from the spotlight. Sources close to Cody shared that they intentionally kept this pregnancy out of public eyes to focus on health and family during these special moments[2][4].
Cody Rhodes Balances WWE Stardom & Hollywood Roles
At the time of Leilani’s birth, Cody was not publicly by Brandi’s side as he was spotted filming scenes for the upcoming Street Fighter live-action movie in Sydney, Australia, portraying the iconic character Guile[1]. This balancing act between top-tier WWE championship responsibilities and burgeoning Hollywood opportunities highlights Cody’s expanding horizons beyond wrestling.
A backstage source revealed, “Cody is fully dedicated to his family, even if his work commitments keep him physically apart at times. He’s thrilled to welcome Leilani and can’t wait to return home to be with Brandi and their girls. The Rhodes family means everything to him.”
Since his recent WWE SummerSlam Undisputed WWE Championship victory over John Cena, Rhodes has been the center of attention inside and outside WWE. His brief absence from SmackDown to focus on filming has only underscored his rising profile in entertainment[3].
Brandi and Cody’s Journey From WWE to AEW and Beyond
Brandi and Cody’s relationship began during their WWE days—Brandi as a ring announcer and Cody as a mainstay on SmackDown with notable runs as Intercontinental Champion. They married in September 2013 and later became key figures in the founding of All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in 2019, where they both held executive and on-screen roles.
Their family expansion comes alongside an evolving career trajectory for both Rhodeses, who have successfully navigated between wrestling, business, and entertainment ventures while maintaining a strong family foundation[3][4].
Wrestling Community Sends Warm Wishes
The announcement sparked an outpouring of congratulations from fans and fellow wrestlers alike. WWE personalities such as Natalya, Zelina Vega, and Lilian Garcia were quick to extend their best wishes, as was Kim Orton, wife of Randy Orton. The sense of community and support for the Rhodes family reflected their well-respected status within the wrestling world[1].
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Rhodes Family
While Leilani is still a newborn, fans are already playfully speculating about a future where both Liberty and Leilani might take up wrestling themselves, perhaps even as a women’s tag team. Whether or not the children pursue the squared circle, it’s clear the family’s wrestling legacy remains a defining part of their lives.
A WWE insider commented, “The Rhodes family has deep roots in wrestling history, and both Cody and Brandi are passionate about passing down those values. Right now, it’s all about enjoying these precious family moments, but the future is wide open.”
Final Words of Congratulations
On behalf of the WWE Universe, congratulations to Cody and Brandi Rhodes on the safe arrival of their daughter, Leilani Ella Runnels. The Rhodes family’s blend of professional excellence and personal happiness continues to inspire fans around the world.
As Cody balances his WWE championship reign, Hollywood ambitions, and growing family, it seems the Rhodes legacy is poised for even greater success—inside and outside the ring. Fans will undoubtedly be watching closely as this new chapter unfolds.
Keep checking back for updates on Cody Rhodes’ WWE schedule and upcoming appearances, including his return dates and possible time off as he embraces fatherhood once again.