Cody 'Raheem' Rhodes — The Story Behind the Name

“It’s simple,” Rhodes said. “People know what WrestleMania means to me—and what I mean to WrestleMania.”

From there, Rhodes escalated the moment. Referencing chatter that the match will turn into a metaphorical “measuring contest,” he joked that Reigns and Punk should be glad he wasn’t involved—adding that he didn’t earn the nickname “Raheem” for nothing.

Why Is Cody Rhodes Called “Raheem”?

The nickname traces back to Rhodes’ relationship with his wife, Brandi Reed, whom he met during their time in WWE. The two were married in 2013.

Additionally, Rhodes' late father, Dusty Rhodes, was often noted for a promo style that was heavily reminiscent of the cadence and rhythms of Black preachers.

The combination led fans to nickname Rhodes “Raheem,” often pairing it with playful Black cultural references, including jokes about him being “invited to the cookout.”

Coming during Black History Month, the remark quickly went viral.

Reaction online has been mixed but largely positive. Some fans questioned whether the line felt forced, while many others were amused that Rhodes openly acknowledged online chatter with an edgy, self-aware joke on WWE television.

His on-screen allies, The Usos, even posted about it on X while SmackDown was airing.

Cody Rhodes Path to WrestleMania

Rhodes is currently locked in a heated rivalry with WWE Champion Drew McIntyre. To reach WrestleMania, he must first win the Elimination Chamber, which takes place on Saturday, February 28, in Chicago.

With calculated bravado, Rhodes ensured that he is still in the conversation on the road to WrestleMania.