Cody Rhodes Reveals New WWE Deal, Plans To End Career With The Company

Cody Rhodes Says He’s Signed New WWE Contract, Plans To End Career There

Cody Rhodes has confirmed that his future remains firmly tied to WWE after revealing that he recently signed a new contract with the company.

While making media appearances to promote the upcoming Street Fighter movie, Rhodes shared what he described as “breaking news” during an interview on FLAGRANT, announcing that he has agreed to a new deal with WWE and intends to remain with the company for the rest of his wrestling career.

According to Rhodes, the new agreement reflects not only his commitment to WWE but also the flexibility that talent now have to pursue opportunities outside the wrestling business. He explained that performers are increasingly able to work on projects such as movies and television while maintaining their relationship with WWE, allowing them to step away temporarily and return when those commitments are completed.

The former Undisputed WWE Champion noted that this evolving approach has changed the way he thinks about the future. Earlier in his career, Rhodes had a specific age in mind for retirement, but he now sees a variety of paths available within WWE beyond being a full-time in-ring performer. Whether that means transitioning into another role within the company or continuing to make appearances after slowing down in the ring, Rhodes appears confident that WWE will remain his professional home.

Family also plays a major role in how he views the next chapter of his life. Rhodes spoke about the importance of being present for his children and referenced the support he received growing up from his parents, including WWE Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes. He said he hopes to provide the same kind of stability and presence for his own daughters as they grow older.

Rhodes’ comments come during another high-profile year for the WWE star. In addition to his Hollywood projects, he remains one of the company’s top names on SmackDown. Most recently, he came up short in his attempt to qualify for the Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match after interference from Randy Orton affected the outcome.

Since returning to WWE at WrestleMania 38 in 2022, Rhodes has reestablished himself as one of the promotion’s biggest stars. His return followed his departure from AEW, a company he helped launch in 2019, and culminated in his championship victory at WrestleMania 40.

With a new contract now in place and outside opportunities continuing to grow, it appears that WWE and Cody Rhodes will remain linked for years to come. And if Rhodes has his way, when the time eventually comes to step away from active competition, it will be while still representing the company he now calls home.

Indie Legend Necro Butcher Signs WWE Legends Deal Despite Never Wrestling For WWE

Few names in professional wrestling are as closely associated with the independent scene and hardcore wrestling as Necro Butcher. That’s why many fans were caught off guard when the veteran brawler announced that he has officially signed a WWE Legends deal.

Necro Butcher, whose real name is Dylan Summers, shared the news through a post on Facebook, revealing that WWE approached him with an offer shortly after he left his previous job. According to Summers, the timing was unexpected, but the agreement has already opened the door for potential future projects with the company.

In his statement, Necro reflected on the significance of receiving recognition from WWE despite never having wrestled for the promotion. He emphasized that his career was built by working hard across the independent wrestling landscape rather than following the traditional path to WWE. He also assured fans that the deal would not affect his current bookings and that he intends to continue honoring his scheduled appearances.

Following the announcement, PWInsider’s Mike Johnson reported that WWE officials confirmed the agreement, describing it as the type of arrangement often referred to internally as a “nostalgia agreement.” These deals typically allow WWE to feature a wrestler’s likeness and legacy in various projects, including merchandise, documentaries, video games, and other content.

Necro Butcher’s profile has grown in recent years thanks in part to VICE’s Dark Side of the Ring. One episode focused heavily on his acclaimed 2005 match against Samoa Joe, a bout widely regarded as one of the most memorable matches in independent wrestling history. The documentary also highlighted Summers’ personal battle with Hodgkin lymphoma, a serious health struggle that left him using a wheelchair in 2020. Fortunately, he later announced that he had beaten cancer and was officially cancer-free.

Over the course of his career, Necro became one of the most recognizable figures on the independent circuit. He competed for a long list of promotions, including Ring of Honor, IWA Mid-South, Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, Full Impact Pro, Combat Zone Wrestling, Big Japan Pro Wrestling, and Juggalo Championship Wrestling, among many others. His reputation was built on an intense, no-nonsense style that often blended brawling and deathmatch wrestling, making him a cult favorite among hardcore wrestling fans.

Outside the ring, Necro also gained mainstream exposure through his appearance in the 2008 wrestling drama The Wrestler.

While WWE Legends deals are typically associated with former WWE stars, Necro Butcher’s signing stands out because he never spent time wrestling for the company. For many fans of independent wrestling, the agreement serves as recognition of a career that left a lasting mark on the industry without ever requiring a run in WWE.

WWE NXT Preview 10/06/2026

WWE NXT tonight at 8/7c on The CW.

  • NXT Women’s Championship #1 Contenders Battle Royal: Arianna Grace, Layla Diggs, Indi Hartwell, Xia Brookside, M by Elegance, Heather by Elegance, Ivy Nile, Kiana James, Adelicious, Lady Shani, Lizzy Rain, Thea Hail, Skylar Raye, Zaria, Izzi Dame, Kali Armstrong, Reina Volcan, Nikkita Lyons, Chantel Monroe, and La Catalina
  • Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic First Round Match: Sean Legacy & Dorian Van Dux vs Tokyo Bad Boys
  • Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic First Round Match: Shido Ash & Viktor Zanov vs Hank & Tank
  • Naraku vs. Shiloh Hill
  • Zilla Fatu goes after Lexis King

AEW Dynamite Grand Slam France Preview 10/6/2026

AEW Dynamite Grand Slam France special tonight at 8/c on TBS and HBO Max from the Adidas Arena in Paris, France..

  • AEW World Championship Match: Will Ospreay (c) vs. Kazuchika Okaka
  • AEW Women’s World Championship Match: Mercedes Mone (c) vs. Queen Aminata
  • TNT Championship Match: Darby Allin (c) vs. Kyle Fletcher
  • Clockwork Carnage World Title Qualifying Match: Samoa Joe vs. “Jungle” Jack Perry
  • ROH World Championship Match: Bandido (c) vs. Kofi
  • Death Rider (Jon Moxley & Gabe Kidd) vs. Don Callis Family (Mark Davis & Jake Doyle)
  • Jericho vs. Nick Wayne

Jim Ross Reveals He Is Undergoing Another Brain Surgery

AEW commentator and WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has announced that he will undergo another brain surgery this week following complications related to a previous procedure.

Ross shared the news on social media, revealing that doctors will perform surgery on Wednesday to address an issue involving a shunt that was placed in his brain earlier this year.

“Getting another brain surgery Wednesday morning to address an issue with my shunt. Positive thoughts appreciated. Thanks,” Ross wrote.

The legendary broadcaster previously underwent surgery in August 2026, forcing him to miss AEW All In London. However, recent complications have reportedly led to the need for additional medical treatment.

Ross recently discussed the situation on his Grilling JR podcast, explaining that he has been dealing with severe headaches that have significantly impacted his quality of life. According to Ross, the pain has been intense enough to interfere with his sleep, and he compared the symptoms to what someone suffering from extreme migraines might experience.

In addition to his current brain-related issues, Ross revealed that doctors have discovered a spot on his kidney that could potentially be cancerous. He is scheduled to travel to Oklahoma City to meet with a specialist and determine what further testing or treatment may be necessary.

The longtime wrestling voice has battled numerous health challenges in recent years. Since 2021, Ross has undergone treatment for skin, hip, and colon cancer, as well as several other medical procedures. Despite those setbacks, he announced in 2025 that he was cancer-free for the third time and later returned to call the final two matches at AEW All In Texas.

At this time, there is no word on when Ross may return to AEW programming. Everyone at WrestlingNewsBlog.com joins wrestling fans around the world in wishing JR a successful surgery and a speedy recovery.

AEW Media Partner WBD Officially Has Merged With Paramount, Will Operate Under The Name Skydance

“One of the biggest corporate stories affecting AEW is now official. Warner Bros. Discovery, the company’s longtime media partner, has completed its merger with Paramount Skydance, creating a new entertainment giant that will operate under the Skydance name.”

According to Deadline, the long-awaited merger closed on Tuesday after more than a year of negotiations, regulatory reviews, and legal challenges. The combined company will now operate under the Skydance name, with shares beginning to trade under the new branding while Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount stock listings have been discontinued.

The merger creates one of the largest media companies in the world and is expected to have significant implications across television, film, streaming, and cable news.

Within the wrestling industry, the deal has attracted attention because of its potential impact on AEW. Warner Bros. Discovery has served as AEW’s primary media partner since the promotion launched in 2019, with Dynamite, Collision, and other AEW programming airing on TBS and TNT.

For now, there appears to be little reason to expect immediate changes. AEW’s current media rights agreement is believed to run through at least early 2028, with an option that could extend the partnership into 2029.

Questions remain about how Skydance’s leadership views professional wrestling and whether the newly formed company will maintain the same level of commitment to AEW moving forward. However, AEW President Tony Khan has previously expressed confidence in the relationship, citing his positive rapport with Skydance CEO David Ellison.

While the merger marks a major shift in the media landscape, AEW’s television future appears secure in the short term. The real significance of the deal may not become clear until future media rights negotiations begin several years down the road.

AJ Styles Makes Surprise Appearance To Rescue Son Avery Styles At Independent Wrestling Event

WWE Hall of Famer AJ Styles made an unexpected appearance over the weekend, coming to the aid of his son Avery Styles following a match at an Atlanta Wrestling Entertainment event.

Avery, who is continuing to gain experience ahead of his upcoming TNA Bound for Glory appearance, challenged Tristan Moody for the GWC Junior Championship on Sunday. While he came up short in his pursuit of the title, the drama didn’t end when the match was over.

After the contest, Avery was confronted and attacked by members of the Palmetto Boys, who launched a post-match assault on the rising star. As the beatdown continued, the crowd erupted when AJ Styles’ entrance music suddenly hit.

“The Phenomenal One” rushed to the ring and quickly cleared out the attackers, sending the Palmetto Boys retreating. AJ then helped his son back to his feet, sharing a brief moment with Avery in the ring as the two embraced and spoke following the save.

The appearance comes at a busy time for Avery Styles, who has been building momentum on the independent wrestling scene. Since signing with TNA at Lockdown, he has competed for promotions including GCW, Juggalo Championship Wrestling, and ETU while preparing for the biggest opportunity of his young career.

Avery is scheduled to compete in the Call Your Shot Gauntlet match at TNA Bound for Glory on October 11. To help prepare for the event, he has been training under former TNA World Champion Frankie Kazarian.

As for AJ Styles, the surprise run-in marked another rare wrestling-related appearance since retiring from in-ring competition. Styles officially ended his legendary career after facing GUNTHER at the Royal Rumble in January. Since then, he has transitioned into a new role as a coach at WWE’s Performance Center while also wrapping up his popular The Phenomenally Retro Podcast, which concluded last month.

While AJ’s wrestling days may be behind him, he showed he still knows how to make an impact when his son needed help.

John Cena Reveals New Details On WWE’s First-Ever John Cena Classic Tournament

John Cena has shared additional details about the upcoming John Cena Classic, including when fans can expect the unique WWE event to take place.

Speaking during a recent appearance on TODAY, the 17-time world champion confirmed that the inaugural John Cena Classic is currently scheduled for December 2026. The tournament was originally announced by Cena during WWE Backlash in May, but new information has now emerged regarding its format and overall concept.

According to Cena, the event will be built around the values and themes that have defined his WWE career, including hustle, loyalty, respect, perseverance, and overcoming adversity.

One of the most unique aspects of the John Cena Classic is that match results alone will not determine the winner. While the tournament will feature traditional matches, Cena explained that fans will have the final say in selecting the overall champion through a vote conducted during the event.

That means competitors will not necessarily need to win every match—or even win a match at all—to be crowned the John Cena Classic champion. Instead, audience support will ultimately decide who leaves the event with the title, creating a format that places as much emphasis on fan connection and performance as it does on victories and losses.

Cena acknowledged that the concept is a bold experiment and admitted he is unsure how it will ultimately be received, but expressed excitement about introducing something different to WWE programming.

While many details remain under wraps, the fan-voting system appears designed to reward the competitor who best embodies the qualities associated with Cena’s career, rather than simply the wrestler with the strongest tournament record.

WWE has not yet announced a specific date, venue, or host city for the event.

The company is currently scheduled to hold Wrestlepalooza in Australia on December 12, leading to speculation that the John Cena Classic could be connected to that show. However, WWE has not confirmed any relationship between the two events.

More information about the tournament is expected to be revealed in the coming months as WWE moves closer to its planned December launch.

WWE Raw Preview 10/5/2026

WWE Raw live tonight at 8 ET/5 PT on Netflix from the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri.

  • WWE World Heavyweight Champion Roman Reigns returns to Raw
  • Je’Von Evans & Penta vs. The Vision (WWE World Tag Team Champions Bron Breakker & Austin Theory) – Non-Title Match
  • No. 1 Contender’s Match for the WWE Women’s World Championship: Becky Lynch vs. Liv Morgan
  • Sol Ruca & Lola Vice vs. Judgment Day (Roxanne Perez & Raquel Rodriguez)
  • Rey Fenix vs. Ethan Page

Jay White Sidelined With Injury, Expected To Miss Up To Two Months

“Jay White’s injury woes continue. AEW announced on Collision that the Bang Bang Gang leader has suffered an undisclosed injury and is expected to be out of action for up to two months, marking another setback for the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion just three months after his long-awaited return to the company.”

AEW star Jay White is once again facing time away from the ring due to injury.

During the October 3 edition of AEW Collision, fans noticed that White was absent as the Bang Bang Gang competed against the Death Riders in trios action. Commentary team member Tony Schiavone later explained the situation, revealing that White has suffered an injury that is expected to keep him out of action for as long as two months.

At this time, AEW has not disclosed the nature of the injury.

According to Schiavone’s comments on the broadcast, the injury is believed to have occurred during the chaotic Tailgate Brawl at AEW All Out 2026, where the Bang Bang Gang battled a team consisting of The Dogs and members of the Death Riders. However, no official details regarding White’s condition have been announced.

Despite the setback, White was present on the September 30 episode of AEW Dynamite, which was dedicated to honoring the late PAC following his tragic passing. During the tribute show, White appeared in a pre-recorded message reflecting on PAC’s impact and speaking about how much he—and the entire AEW locker room—would miss the man they knew as Ben Satterley.

The latest injury continues a frustrating run of bad luck for the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion. White had only recently returned to action at Forbidden Door in June after spending more than a year on the sidelines.

His previous absence stretched approximately 15 months after a hand injury required surgery and forced him out of the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament. Reports at the time also indicated that he was dealing with a shoulder issue that required rehabilitation, contributing to the lengthy recovery period.

White has also battled injury troubles in previous years. In 2024, he suffered an injury during the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament that ultimately caused him to miss AEW All In at Wembley Stadium before making his return later that year and entering a feud with Hangman Adam Page.

For now, AEW fans will have to wait for further information regarding White’s condition. If the projected timeline holds, the Bang Bang Gang leader could be back in action before the end of the year, but his exact return date remains uncertain.