Cody Rhodes’ entrance theme, titled “Kingdom,” is closely associated with his persona and career in wrestling, particularly after his departure from WWE. The association of the song with his particular journey in wrestling is especially significant.
“Kingdom” was written by a band called Downstait, who are known for writing songs in professional wrestling, including themes for The Miz and Dolph Ziggler. The song was collaboratively written for Cody after he exited from WWE in 2016 and embarked on becoming “The American Nightmare.”
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Storytelling and Symbolism
The song is about a man who departs a kingdom that has stripped him of everything except his name, only to build his own kingdom. This accurately reflects Cody’s journey from WWE to becoming a top talent in other promotions, such as AEW, demonstrating his success and independence away from the WWE.
Fan Engagement
The song includes a moment where the fans will yell a distinctive “WOAH,” distilling enthusiasm in the arena prior to his entrance as he strides to the ring. The incorporation of this part of the song creates a memorable, and now signature, part of his identity as a performer.
Significantly, the engagement of fans during his entrance aids to make “Kingdom” a huge part of Cody Rhodes identity, while continuing to elevate the performances, creating with the audience an intimacy able to secure potentially impactful moments.
Potential Shots at WWE
A few interpretations would suggest that the lyrics contain natural hints to his previous interactions with WWE, especially with the McMahon family and Triple H, and the reoccurring narrative of freedom, and creating his own empire. Still, these interpretations are subjective, and probably wouldn’t be widely accepted.
Evolution and Legacy
Even if he would consider changing his theme song, “Kingdom” is an indelibly featured aspect of Cody Rhodes’ character. The song has been used in various promotions, AEW and WWE just to name a few, and has found its place within the landscape of wrestling history, defining the resilience Cody Rhodes has exhibited in the industry, and ultimately, the success he has achieved.
Cody Rhodes’ current positioning in WWE
Cody Rhodes has made a name for himself as a generational star in WWE, especially since returning to the company in 2022. Let’s talk about where he is now and what the future holds for him.
Current Status
Cody Rhodes won the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania XL after defeating Roman Reigns. This victory was a career-changing moment for Rhodes, and completed a goal he had of winning a championship his father, Dusty Rhodes, never did.
Rhodes is currently had a heated feud with fellow WWE superstar Kevin Owens that gained momentum in 2023 and is only expected to evolve as we move forward. The Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens rivalry began to heat up with some intense matches over the course of WWE Holiday Tour and is expected to continue.
Road Ahead
Cody Rhodes will defend his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against John Cena during WrestleMania 41. Cody and John are two of the biggest names in WWE history, and the wrestling world is anticipating the opportunity to see these two superstars share the squared circle.
While Cody feuds with Kevin Owens, and fights John Cena at WrestleMania 41, The Rock has teased a potential storyline involving a future confrontation with Cody Rhodes at some point in the future.
Legacy and Impact
Cody Rhodes will be riding a championship wave and establishing his legacy as a star in WWE, while re-enforcing his and his father’s legacy in wrestling after accomplishing his championship goal. As a top fan favorite, Cody Rhodes appears to be in the centre of WWE’s narrative moving into 2024.
Vijay Suyal 
Reddaveni Saisneha