At WWE WrestleMania 40 on Sunday, history was made as Cody Rhodes claimed victory over Roman Reigns and clinched the title of Undisputed WWE Champion. However, amidst the celebration, Cody revealed a significant regret: not having his longtime mentor and friend, Shawn Spears, by his side during this career-defining moment for him.
In a recent interview with The Babyfaces podcast, Rhodes reflected on his long history with Spears, who was one of his first mentors during their time in Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW). Rhodes explained that his father, Dusty Rhodes, paired him with Spears to help him gain experience.
Cody recalled how Spears guided him through their tag team rivalry with Deuce ‘n Domino, crediting Spears for teaching him the fundamentals of wrestling and the importance of storytelling.
“You mentioned Shawn Spears. So Shawn Spears, during the Deuce-Domino-Cherry, during this rivalry, I had no fundamental experience. I couldn’t tell you a top wrist lock from a double quarter. I had no fundamentals. But they didn’t mind because they were teaching me from the story perspective first. That’s how Al [Snow] would like to teach and Shawn was there to lead me through it, and he does not get enough credit from me for how special he is.”
The Undisputed WWE Champion then moved on to share a poignant moment from WrestleMania 40, where he encountered Spears backstage on the day of his big win. Rhodes added that he regrets not having Spears with him for the post-match celebration at the Show of Shows.
“He is the only person that I regret I didn’t have in the ring after WrestleMania because I saw him that day and we just took a picture together and he was just like he always was. He knew what this day was, he knew it was big and the opportunity to go and I could take it all if I wanted to and gosh dude, I wouldn’t be where I’m at without Shawn Spears. He is a blessing to the business and I am so glad to see him in NXT.”
If you need a refresher, Shawn Spears made his return to WWE on the February 27 episode of NXT and has been active on the brand both as an on-screen talent and behind the scenes. Meanwhile, Rhodes is gearing up to defend his title against Logan Paul at the upcoming King and Queen of The Ring Premium Live Event in Saudi Arabia on May 25. Stay tuned to Ringside News for more!
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