As WrestleMania 42 approaches, the hype surrounding the biggest event in professional wrestling is reaching a fever pitch. Cody Rhodes, one of the most beloved stars in the WWE, recently appeared on ESPN’s First Take to discuss his take on the greatest WrestleMania performers of all-time. When asked to name his top 5, Rhodes provided a list that has already sparked intense debate among wrestling fans.
The Rhodes Rundown: A Look at Cody’s Top 5 Greatest WrestleMania Performers
Cody Rhodes’ list is a who’s who of wrestling legends, with each performer bringing their unique style and charisma to the grandest stage in sports entertainment. Here’s a breakdown of Rhodes’ top 5:
- The Undertaker: Rhodes’ first selection is a no-brainer. The Deadman’s undefeated streak at WrestleMania is the stuff of legend, with 21 consecutive victories cementing his status as one of the greatest performers in WWE history.
- Ric Flair: The Nature Boy’s impressive resume at WrestleMania includes multiple title wins and a reputation for delivering high-quality performances. Rhodes praised Flair’s ability to elevate his opponents and steal the show with his signature style.
- Hulk Hogan: Rhodes’ third selection is a nod to the legendary Hulkamaniac, who consistently delivered show-stopping performances at WrestleMania. From his epic battles with Andre the Giant to his iconic showdowns with Randy Savage, Hogan’s impact on the event is still felt today.
- Stone Cold Steve Austin: The Texas Rattlesnake’s unbridled energy and charisma made him a fan favorite, and his WrestleMania performances are some of the most memorable in history. Rhodes praised Austin’s ability to connect with the crowd and deliver a show that always left fans wanting more.
- Daniel Bryan: In a surprise move, Rhodes named Daniel Bryan as his fifth greatest WrestleMania performer. The underdog story of Bryan’s rise to the top, culminating in his iconic win over Triple H at WrestleMania 30, earned Rhodes’ respect for the performer’s dedication and perseverance.
Backstage Reaction: Rhodes’ Omission Sparks Debate
While Rhodes’ list is a solid representation of the greatest WrestleMania performers, some fans have taken issue with his omission of The Rock. According to a WWE insider, Rhodes was aware that his selection would spark debate, saying, “Cody knows he’s going to take some heat for leaving The Rock off the list. But he truly believes that Daniel Bryan’s performance at WrestleMania 30 was one of the most underrated moments in WWE history.”
This insider also revealed that Rhodes has a deep appreciation for The Rock’s work and considers him one of the greatest performers in WWE history. However, Rhodes felt that Bryan’s underdog story and subsequent rise to the top made his performance at WrestleMania 30 a more compelling choice.
The Fallout: What Does This Mean for Rhodes’ Future?
Cody Rhodes’ selection of Daniel Bryan as his fifth greatest WrestleMania performer has already sparked a heated debate among wrestling fans. While some praise Rhodes’ ability to think outside the box and recognize the value of underdog stories, others feel that The Rock’s omission is a snub.
As Rhodes prepares to take on the challenge of WrestleMania 42, this controversy will undoubtedly follow him. Will he be able to use this momentum to propel himself to new heights, or will the backlash from fans and critics derail his momentum? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Cody Rhodes is ready for the challenge.
Conclusion
Cody Rhodes’ list of the top 5 greatest WrestleMania performers is a testament to his deep knowledge and appreciation for the history of the event. From The Undertaker’s undefeated streak to Daniel Bryan’s underdog story, Rhodes’ selections are a reminder that the greatest performers in WWE history are those who can deliver show-stopping performances on the grandest stage.
As WrestleMania 42 approaches, the WWE universe is buzzing with excitement. With Cody Rhodes leading the charge, fans can expect another unforgettable event that will leave a lasting impact on the world of professional wrestling.