Cody Rhodes, one of WWE’s most prominent and resilient stars, recently dropped a bombshell revealing a surprising backup career that many fans and analysts had no idea about. Known for his relentless in-ring skills and compelling storytelling, Rhodes has quietly cultivated a parallel professional life to ensure his future beyond wrestling, according to exclusive sources close to WWE.

Cody Rhodes has been at the forefront of WWE’s landscape since his high-profile return in 2022 after leaving the company in 2016. He quickly reestablished himself as a major star by winning the Royal Rumble in consecutive years (2023 and 2024) and capturing the Undisputed WWE Championship, holding the belt for a staggering 378 days before losing it to John Cena at WrestleMania 41. Most recently, Rhodes claimed the coveted King of the Ring title in June 2025 and secured a blockbuster title match rematch against Cena, set for SummerSlam 2025[2][4].

The Unexpected Career Path Revealed

Behind the scenes, fans might be surprised to learn that Cody Rhodes has prepared a backup plan well outside the squared circle. According to a WWE insider who prefers to remain anonymous, “Cody has always been more than just a wrestler; he’s a man with an eye for business and storytelling. While most assumed his path post-wrestling might be commentary or acting, Cody’s been quietly developing a career in architectural design — a passion he picked up during his off time.” This revelation sheds new light on how Rhodes balances his life in WWE with ambitions far from the wrestling arena.

The insider further elaborates, “He’s invested considerable time and resources in education related to design and architecture. Cody believes that wrestling has given him a platform to express himself physically, but architecture offers a different kind of creative fulfillment — one that lasts longer and impacts communities. He’s been involved in several residential and small commercial projects, mostly in his home state.”

Why Architecture?

Cody Rhodes’ interest in architecture might seem unusual at first glance but fits well with his well-documented flair for storytelling and structure. From meticulously planning his in-ring persona arcs to crafting compelling promos, Rhodes understands the importance of design and planning.

Architectural design also parallels his methodical approach to rehearsing matches and character development. “People don’t realize how much thought goes into building an arena of emotion in wrestling,” Rhodes confided in a previous interview, “and my eye for structure is just as sharp outside the ring, whether it’s a storyline or a building.”

Wrestling Career Remains Priority Amid Backup Plans

Despite his intriguing backup career, Rhodes remains fully committed to his WWE journey. Recent months have been packed with high-profile storylines, including intense rivalries with legends like John Cena and The Rock, culminating in the King of the Ring win and the upcoming SummerSlam title shot[2][4]. Industry insiders note that his work ethic and passion for WWE storytelling remain as strong as ever, ensuring his backup plan isn’t a sign of stepping away anytime soon.

An insider close to Rhodes revealed, “He’s actively preparing for the future but continues to pour his heart into WWE. The steps into architecture are more about balance and long-term security rather than a sign he’s leaving wrestling anytime soon.”

Fan and Industry Reactions

The news of Rhodes’ architectural pursuits has been met with curiosity and admiration. Fans appreciate his multidimensional persona, while wrestling experts see it as a smart move to secure a post-wrestling career.

Some fans on social media expressed surprise, sharing disbelief that the signature “American Nightmare” could one day trade his signature moves for blueprints and building plans. Others praised the professional foresight. A commentator on a popular wrestling podcast stated, “It’s a rare quality for wrestlers to diversify like this. Cody Rhodes isn’t just thinking about the next match, but the next chapter of his life.”

What This Means for WWE’s Future Storylines

Cody’s ability to balance WWE stardom with a backup career might influence his on-screen character evolution. Sources close to WWE suggest that this real-life narrative could inspire creative storytelling in the months ahead, potentially adding layers of depth to his persona.

With the SummerSlam showdown against John Cena looming, WWE writers might weave Cody’s life off-screen into his storyline. A WWE source commented, “It wouldn’t be surprising if Cody’s real-life ambitions become part of his character arc — blending the man and the myth. It adds realism and relatability, something WWE values immensely.”

A Multifaceted Legacy in the Making

As Rhodes prepares for another electrifying title match at SummerSlam, this newly revealed backup career in architecture places him in the company of wrestlers who have successfully transitioned to life outside the ring — all while maintaining their legendary status in wrestling history.

From champion wrestler to aspiring architect, Cody Rhodes embodies resilience, foresight, and ambition. His unexpected career path shows that beneath the adrenaline and spotlight, there’s a man laying the bricks for a future beyond WWE, reinforcing the wisdom that even the biggest stars prepare for life after the roar of the crowd fades.

With SummerSlam 2025 on the horizon, all eyes will be on Cody Rhodes — the wrestler with a blueprint for greatness both inside and outside WWE.