During the emotionally charged 10-bell salute honoring WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan, Cody Rhodes revealed a motivating interaction that made him feel “ten feet tall.” Speaking in a recent interview, Rhodes shared what a fellow WWE Hall of Famer said to him backstage during the tribute on SmackDown, an exchange that deeply resonated with him amid the somber moment.
The tribute came shortly after WWE’s heartfelt 10-bell salute to Hulk Hogan on Raw, which took place at Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena and was broadcast on July 28, 2025. The event featured emotional speeches, a video tribute, and appearances by Hogan’s son Nick Hogan and longtime associate Eric Bischoff, highlighting Hogan’s immeasurable impact on WWE and the wrestling world at large[1][3].
According to Rhodes, as the tribute unfolded on SmackDown, a respected WWE Hall of Famer approached him with words of encouragement: “You’re ten feet tall, keep pushing forward.” These simple but powerful words gave Rhodes a sense of confidence and motivation during a difficult time. Sources close to Rhodes confirmed the Hall of Famer’s identity as Sergeant Slaughter, a longtime WWE legend known for his leadership and respect within the locker room[1].
Cody Rhodes elaborated on the significance of the moment during his podcast interview, stating, “In that moment, it wasn’t just about remembering Hulk — it was about feeling inspired to carry the legacy forward. Hearing those words from someone like Sergeant Slaughter made me realize the responsibility we have in this business and the impact we can still make” (Fightful interview, 2025).
The 10-bell salute holds a profound meaning in professional wrestling as a traditional sign of respect to those who have passed. WWE’s tribute to Hogan marked a stirring moment for wrestlers and fans worldwide, reflecting on the enduring legacy of one of wrestling’s most iconic figures. WWE.com provided extensive coverage of the tribute, describing it as a “moment of unity and remembrance” that united current stars with WWE’s storied past[3].
Backstage sources emphasized that moments like these remind wrestlers like Rhodes of the camaraderie and history embedded within WWE. “It’s about more than just the matches — it’s about carrying the torch and honoring those who built this industry,” one WWE insider told Wrestling Inc. “Cody took those words seriously, and it’s pushed him to elevate his role both inside and outside the ring” (WrestlingInc.com, 2025).
In the ensuing weeks, Rhodes has spoken publicly about embracing the leadership mantle in WWE, drawing strength from legacies like Hogan’s and encouragement from veterans like Sergeant Slaughter. His candid reflections demonstrate the importance of intergenerational support in professional wrestling, showcasing how the past continually shapes the present and future of the sport.
As WWE continues to honor its legends and build new stars, moments such as the 10-bell salute to Hulk Hogan and the behind-the-scenes conversations they inspire deepen the emotional and historical fabric of the company. Fans can look forward to Cody Rhodes channeling this renewed motivation in upcoming SmackDown and WWE events as he strives to live up to the profound legacies that have paved his path.