Cody Rhodes: The WWE Champion and His Connection to College Football
The blend of sports and entertainment reached its peak this weekend with Cody Rhodes, the current Undisputed WWE Champion, appearing as a special guest on ESPN’s "College GameDay". Known as "The American Nightmare," Rhodes not only carries the WWE Championship belt but also a deep passion for college football, particularly for the Georgia Bulldogs, his home state team.
The event took place in Athens, Georgia, as part of the highly anticipated showdown between the Georgia Bulldogs and the Tennessee Volunteers, both ranked among the top 12 in the SEC standings. Rhodes, who grew up in Marietta, Georgia, shared during his appearance how his love for the "Dawgs" began in his childhood. "My life has always revolved around the Bulldogs. I attended Georgia football camp as a kid and even took a picture with Uga, the team’s mascot," he said with excitement.
Rhodes’ selection as the week’s guest picker not only highlights his connection to the state but also the growing bond between professional wrestling and college football. Previous episodes have featured WWE stars like Sheamus, Bianca Belair, and Stone Cold Steve Austin, showcasing the crossover appeal of both worlds to diverse audiences.
When it came to predictions, Rhodes showed his loyalty to Georgia by picking them to win against Tennessee in a crucial game for the Bulldogs' hopes of staying in the College Football Playoff race. He also impressed with accurate picks in other key matchups, including backing Texas over Arkansas and LSU against Florida.
Rhodes’ presence added a unique flair to the event, blending athletic intensity with entertainment charisma, leaving a lasting impression on the show and college football fans alike.