Cody Rhodes, known to fans worldwide as “The American Nightmare,” is living his dream—or perhaps rewriting it. Born and raised in East Cobb, the Undisputed WWE Champion has carved his own path in professional wrestling while honoring the legacy of his father, the legendary WWE Hall of Famer “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes. Cody’s journey from wrestling royalty to WWE Champion is a story of grit, determination, and reinvention.
A Legacy Built in the Ring
Cody made his WWE debut in 2007 and quickly established himself as a star, capturing multiple WWE Tag Team and Intercontinental Championships. In 2016, he craved more than what WWE had to offer at the time. “I no longer felt challenged,” he admitted. “I needed to bet on myself and see what else was out there.”
That leap of faith led Cody to the independent wrestling scene. He won NWA World's Heavyweight Championship. He also became a founding member and an EVP at All Elite Wrestling (AEW). His work outside WWE not only elevated his career, but reshaped the industry. Still, home was calling.
Cody’s 2022 return to WWE at WrestleMania 38 was nothing short of electric. Since then, he’s headlined WrestleMania three times and achieved his lifelong dream—winning the Undisputed WWE Championship. “When I was eight years old, I saw a photo of my father holding the championship belt over his head, only to find he never officially won it. It became my goal to win,” Cody reflected. “Handing that title to my mother in the ring at WrestleMania 40—nothing can beat that moment.”
Building Champions at The Nightmare Factory
When Cody isn’t making history inside the ring, he’s helping others build their own legacies. In 2020, he co-founded The Nightmare Factory, a state-of-the-art wrestling training facility in the Atlanta area. “I understand the challenges of breaking into sports entertainment” Cody explained. “I wanted to provide opportunities, mentorship, and a structured path for the next generation of wrestlers to thrive.”
The school combines in-ring technique, promo skills, character development and the psychological aspects of wrestling to create well-rounded performers. Recently, The Nightmare Factory became part of WWE’s ID Program, focused on identifying and cultivating future stars. Cody’s advice to aspiring wrestlers: “There’s no rush. Take your time to learn and hone in on your craft. Find a great wrestling school. Always have your ears, eyes and mind open.”
Rooted in Roswell
Though his career has taken him around the globe, Cody’s heart remains in the Peach State. “I’m a Georgia boy,” he said proudly. “I went to Lassiter High School in Marietta, and this will always be home.” Cody and his wife, Brandi, chose to settle in Roswell, surrounded by his mom, sister, brother-in-law, niece and nephew. He also picked the city for its thriving community.
“I love Canton Street,” he shared. “It’s full of great restaurants and businesses. Brandi’s yoga and pilates studio, Naked Mind Yoga + Pilates, is right at the end of the street.”
Brandi’s studio is an inclusive space that caters to people in all stages of their fitness journeys. “I’m so proud of her. She's a hands-on instructor and has assembled a team of top-notch teachers offering Naked Mind's clients a variety of class options,” added Cody. “ The studio also has childcare to make it easier for busy parents to prioritize their wellness.”
The Power of Partnership
Whether in the ring or at home, Cody values teamwork. “The Nightmare Family isn’t just a wrestling faction—it’s real life,” he explained. “At WWE, I see myself as the quarterback, and I’ve built a loyal team around me.”
That same sense of partnership extends to his marriage. “Brandi has always stood beside me—or behind me when I needed a push,” he said. Their support for one another fuels their success, both professionally and personally.
For date nights, the couple enjoys local favorites like Table & Main and Monkey 68, followed by a round at Top Golf.
Chasing Dreams and Inspiring Others
Cody Rhodes’ story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the pursuit of greatness. From honoring his father’s legacy to blazing his own trail, he’s proven that dreams—even American Nightmares—can come true.
And as he continues to inspire fans worldwide, Cody remains committed to giving back, mentoring future stars, and celebrating life’s victories—both in and out of the ring.
For more information about The Nightmare Factor, visit nightmarefactoryga.com.
Follow him on social media for updates and inspiration.
Instagram: @americannightmarecody
X: @CodyRhodes
TikTok: @AmericanNightmareCody
“I understand the challenges of breaking into sports entertainment. I wanted to provide opportunities, mentorship, and a structured path for the next generation of wrestlers to thrive. The Nightmare Family isn’t just a wrestling faction—it’s real life. I'm the quarterback & I’ve built a loyal team around me."
Cody Rhodes