Real Reason Cody Rhodes Hasn't Signed A New AEW Contract?
Another onion layer to the ever-evolving Cody Rhodes/free agent saga in AEW.
Cody Rhodes' pro wrestling future has been the hot topic since Monday, when Fightful Select reported that the reigning TNT Champion and AEW EVP was technically working for the promotion as a free agent following his contract's expiration in late 2021.
Dave Meltzer has since stated that AEW sources have been reluctant to discuss the matter with him. In his view, this indicates that either the company is "mad" about the situation, or, as one AEW higher-up has indicated, its a "publicity stunt."
Speaking on today's episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Meltzer stated that the family health emergency that forced Rhodes to return home after flying out for AEW's 5 January Dynamite tapings may have prevented him from physically signing a contract extension. This Wednesday's advertised Dynamite appearance will be Cody's first of 2022.
It was pointed out, too, that there was "nothing of substance" to the idea of him outright leaving AEW, given his various WarnerMedia shows (Rhodes to the Top and Go-Big Show), EVP status, and more.
In kayfabe, Rhodes is due to work a unification match with interim TNT Champion Sammy Guevara sometime in the near future. He was still being advertised for tonight's Dynamite at the time of writing.