Cody Rhodes has never forgotten what AJ Styles did to his father Dusty Rhodes 21 years ago
summary
- Cody Rhodes and AJ Styles have never faced each other in their respective illustrious careers.
- However, if the fans have their way, that could soon change at “Backlash” as Cody Rhodes looks for his first opponent since WrestleMania 40.
AJ Styles will hope to get closer to the WWE Undisputed Title when he clashes with LA Knight on the upcoming episode of WWE SmackDown on April 19, 2024. From a storyline perspective, a strong heel like Styles would make more sense as Cody Rhodes’ debut. A rival than another babyface like LA Knight.
The career achievements of The Phenomenal One are reflected in many ways in The American Nightmare. Before becoming main-event players in the Stamford promotion, both superstars made names for themselves in non-WWE promotions such as NJPW, TNA, ROH, and the NWA. Surprisingly, despite being in the business together for nearly 16 years, the two superstars have never crossed paths in a solo encounter.
Fun fact: AJ Styles has faced Dusty Rhodes…but never Cody Rhodes.
Do we think it will get backlash? pic.twitter.com/GXaKpxRdPg
— A Kenny for your thoughts (@_kennythoughts) April 14, 2024
Even more surprising is that despite not facing Cody Rhodes, AJ Styles shared the ring with his father, Dusty Rhodes.
AJ Styles took on Dusty Rhodes in a NWA World Title Clash of the Ages
At TNA Weekly PPV #65 in 2003, The Phenomenal One found himself across the ring from The American Dream, Dusty Rhodes. On paper, a speedy high-flyer in style seemed like an unstoppable threat to the 57-year-old Rhodes, who was clearly past his prime.
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However, tough challenges were never a problem for The Dream, who was considered one of the most dominant wrestlers of all time. With Vince Russo in his corner, Styles served as the designated heel in this contest. His innovative offense made no difference in the early stages of the match, as Rhodes continued to hit his opponent with chops and punches.
Styles eventually fought back, blowing up the old legend by punching him repeatedly in the face. After bleeding out in the audience area, the two men found their way back to the ring, where Styles continued his a*sault. Never one to be intimidated by “Hard Times”, Dusty once again put off the damage done by taking down Mr. TNA.
AJ Styles (c) vs. Dusty Rhodes
TNA Weekly PPV #65NWA World Heavyweight Championship pic.twitter.com/GEgf8o3Cat
— Vic (@vic_8122) April 14, 2024
Crowd support helped The Midnight Rider hang with technically superior opponents. However, when Rhodes looked to finish AJ with a figure four leg lock, the NWA Champion threw the referee out of the ring.
Styles then proceeded to apply a Figure Four of his own, hoping to score a submission victory. However, Dusty chose to pa*s out instead of tapping his heel opponent. In the end, The Phenomenal One scored a final victory over the NWA legend, adding another remarkable feat to his early career.
What can we expect from Cody Rhodes vs. AJ Styles at WWE Backlash?
After his legendary title win at WrestleMania, Cody Rhodes now awaits his first opponent. If fans get what they want, The American Nightmare will make his first title defense in France against AJ Styles at WWE Backlash.
Two megastars will enter the field in this match with different objectives. Styles, a former WWE Champion in his own right, wants to capture the coveted title again before retiring. Rhodes, on the other hand, will be hoping to take down The Phenomenal One to start his reign in a dominant way.