Cody Rhodes On Leaving AEW For WWE, Meeting With Vince, WrestleMania 39 Loss To Roman Reigns

WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes sits down with Chris Van Vliet at the premiere of "American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes" in Atlanta, GA. He talks about his decision to leave AEW and go back to WWE, wrestling Seth Rollins with a torn pec at HIAC, how the meeting with Vince McMahon went before he re-signed with WWE, how the "WOAH" in his entrance caught on, the origins of "Finish the story", the biggest things that have changed in WWE since he left in 2016, his new documentary on Peacock and much more!
00:00 Intro
00:26 Karrion Kross’ famous Jesse Ventura impression
01:46 Attending NFL meetings with AEW CEO Tony Khan
02:56 His reaction to being back in WWE
03:40 What has changed about WWE since 2016?
07:12 What was the first thing Vince McMahon said to him?
09:33 Returning with ‘Kingdom’ as his theme?
12:33 How did Seth Rollins react to Cody wrestling with a torn pec?
14:05 The origins of “finish the story’
15:40 His reaction to the finish of Wrestlemania 39
16:53 Balancing being an executive and an in-ring performer
19:50 How has being a father changed his life?
21:55 3 Things Cody Rhodes is grateful for
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#codyrhodes #wwe #wrestlemania #summerslam

[@messey12]

Adrenaline in my soul Chris Van Vliet and Cody Rhodes

[@ChrisVanVliet]

Haha nice one!

[@nicolasace4097]

" they're gonna give us what we came to seeee!"

[@AnswerisB]

Dunununu WOOOOOAAAHHHH

[@ourcoasterlove5272]

Excellent!

[@grantslater861]

No one like the comment it’s at 420

[@BDE]

Loved this video. Felt more like a conversation than an interview

[@1KQ_]

💯

[@ChrisVanVliet]

Thanks my friend! Just trying to keep up with you 🚀

[@getbn6547]

@@ChrisVanVliet Are their any wrestlers that you'd actually consider a friend? Or is it more of a business interview thing?

[@ChrisVanVliet]

@@getbn6547 Quite a few! And as Cody pointed out here, I stayed at DDP's the night before this interview

[@mohammedumarfarhan9900]

​@@ChrisVanVliet my friend your an absolute genius. I showed ur interview of the Undertaker to my uncle and he was all praise for you.

[@Isuckatvideogames210]

“Doesn’t look like we’re heading towards friendship” WELL LOOKY HERE 😂

[@GraveMemories]

Cody seems like he is really locked in at all times The fact he stays so calm is amazing

[@OnlySplits7Ten]

Bro is just a business man. He’s light years ahead of this game.

[@johnconstantine2518]

I listen to the Podcasts while gaming however I also come on KZbin and like the videos to show support. CVV is honestly such a wonderful interviewer, he let's them talk and it honestly feels more like hanging out than an interview, such an amazing dude. Especially when he has wrestlers on the Podcast

[@ChrisVanVliet]

Thanks John!

[@johnconstantine2518]

@ChrisVanVliet A pleasure as always, thanks for always taking the time to read out comments before every episode as well as being insightful and asking at the end of each show 3 things we're greateful for, it's really inspirational and motivational

[@thelordsephiroth777]

Nice. I do the same thing. KZbin listens are great for gaming

[@JustMNY]

4 years into the making... one of the greatest and most charismatic man to ever do it... chris van vliet.. oh and ofc cody rhodes.

[@emiliomarbanjr]

You aint lying. Chris is great, probably one of the best interviewers out there.

[@mickh4256]

He's dead on with Seth. I saw him at a live event last year, and the dude is an absolute master at working the crowd.

[@bilmeister88]

Another great interview Chris. Met Cody briefly when WWE was in Manchester got to tell him really enjoyed his dads documentary and he should be proud of it. He seemed genuinely touched seems a great guy.

[@robot-hive2022]

Chris is becoming and I i think within a year will become the go-to interviewer for pro-wrestlers. There is no one better right now, professional, asks the difficult questions and doesn't let the guest stray too far off topic without actually answering the question. Good work Chris!

[@acgregg759]

Who is currently better?

[@robot-hive2022]

@@acgregg759 never said anyone was currently better because I think Chris is the best but it takes time for that to take effect. He currently is not the first person wrestlers give interviews to but like I said if you can read I think that will happen over the next year

[@Taima]

@@acgregg759 I won't make a call on whether he's better, but Ariel Helwani is that really big go-to guy who's really good imo. I'd be happy with both of them getting to roll in all the interviews they want.

[@austinhernandez2716]

If only news "journalists" were like this

[@alonelypotato2788]

​@@robot-hive2022what i notice was the difference between Chris and other interviewer...the wrestler seems more comfortable witu Chris...they treated Chris like the8r friends..most of the interview look more like a conversation between 2 friends...plus Chris ask interesting, intelligent question...Chris listen never interrupting....You can see Chris doing this because he genuinely love the sport you can see the passion in him never treated like it is his job like he chasing content chasing likes chasing subs he does this because he love it(atleast that what i saw)

[@DemonAngels7]

Thanks for the great interview. I met Cody Rhodes a couple years before he went back to WWE. He was an awesome guy. Thank you for the awesome interview you rock.

[@TJKerrell]

Cody’s shoutout to Billy running the VIP Superstar Experience was very nice, got to meet Billy and be a part of the VIP for a live show last month and it was incredible, Billy deserves all the flowers!

[@mattyice4878]

Can you tell me what that was like?

[@TJKerrell]

@@mattyice4878 so roughly 2 hours before the show begins, they corralled us into the stadium earlier than general admission so we could shop at the merch table and then we were take to the aisle. They let us line up on the entrance ramp and take a picture on the steps of the ring using a replica title belt. Then, they took us to a media room where we were handed gift bags that included an autograph book. Then, they one by one brought in 3 different superstars. In my case, it was Rick Boogs, Shotzi, and Bobby Lashley. They were all incredibly genuine and awesome. Then, we got let into our ringside seats for a close-up view of the show, and after the main event concluded Billy came over to give us our souvenir VIP chair.

[@Bruv234]

Cody is correct when talking about Chris and his journey. It seems like a lot of things happened around 2016-17. It’s cool to see all the progress for everyone. Chris,Cody, WWE and AEW. 👍🏽

[@noahbrennan5849]

Can’t wait!!! Chris always has the best interview’s

[@theviperrko7535]

I really appreciate your work, Chris! Keep it up 👍

[@ChrisVanVliet]

I appreciate you!

[@NottyGurlStyle]

I love Cody! I’m glad he got fed up enough to leave and do his own thing and be very successful with AEW. I think he had to do this or else Vince would NEVER allow him to express himself the way he wanted. He proved himself very valuable and if he’s coming back it will be on his terms and I’m so glad for it. Great interview as always!!

[@penaldogaynaldo835]

I accidentally found your channel and now I love it❤

[@ChrisVanVliet]

That's awesome!

[@rezsurfer2808]

CVV is probably only one i can watch thru the entire interviews. You're always getting the best and how you hold it down is great.

[@hiimdusty9575]

Cody is a selfless entertainer. Hands down deserves that Title. Thanks for being you Cody. Thanks for the interview Chris!

[@4cuttime]

I agree 💯🔥🔥

[@perceivedvelocity9914]

IMO some guys are better when they are hunting for the title. They lose something when they hold the championship.

[@ChrisbeFoSerious]

@@perceivedvelocity9914you’re not wrong, but it comes down to the creative team having a SOLID long term plan for someone after they achieve their goal. A star can only do so much without a great storyline and adequate ring partners.

[@TD1021-]

Good stuff Chris. You're by far the best interviewer. You have a great skill that alot fail to have and thats asking well thought out questions and most importantly not interrupting and getting the guest so comfortable talking that it seems at times like 2 friends just hanging out talking instead of an interview. We all support you and are here for you man, keep up the great work!

[@ogsteezus5583]

The intro to this video… was Cody foreshadowing? Him and Seth are definite friends right now 😂

[@coolkidbradude7745]

Kayfabe

[@James_A85]

This was just absolutely fantastic interview thank you so much Chris 👏👏👏

[@Sasuke-md6or]

This will be the interview ever 🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸

[@Sasuke-md6or]

Be the best

[@udsmusic_official]

Great interview, Chris! Looking forwaed to your other interviews. ❤

[@SpeedTwister96]

Another great interview! I always love the atmosphere in your videos. #1 guy when it comes to wrestling interviews in my opinion!

[@dashkanishka]

CVV, the epitome of positivity interviews CR. Well, that combo is fire. Thank you both!!

[@dustinfocus]

CHris, these are great. Thank you for opening up at the end. For more Cody work, Would you show up to Cody's wrestling camps? I'd like to see him in that element, too.

[@EndEverAfter]

You always kill it with these interviews, Chris! I appreciate your work so much! Thanks for the awesome content! 🙌🏻

[@DheroBob]

Really awesome interview! Keep up the good work, CVV!

[@krisiS4020]

Wow really great interview! Love your show! I never miss it. It's like eternity when that one week waiting when you upload your videos.

[@allthingsheard]

Great interview, Chris! Anyone else notice the cheeky cut at 15:46 when he asked if there was a version of Wrestlemania 39 where Cody would walk out as champ?👀

[@Rearnold1987]

Amazing work as always. CVV always delivers.

[@jasonmaclean719]

There is no doubt how proud Dusty would be of his boys and how well they've done in the business. What a legacy for this family.

[@jasonkenyon5870]

Honestly the best interview I’ve seen, Cody is awesome, but to see how far you’ve come from the early days, keep up the awesome work

[@Mr.MutantPNW]

I feel like Chris is legitimately a good person. I enjoy watching his interviews. you can tell he definitely gets excited to interview these guys

[@BadGuySwerve117]

I like the guy to hes not ur average mid interviewer that asks the same questions others have already asked or so and so if theres no hard questions or that he gets the inside scoop on stuff we dont know or he will sit there and have a good conversation like a nornal human being while other interviewers are rude and disrespectful and just want want want want

[@sreal1]

Can’t get enough Cody. So proud of my boy. And to hear him speak about his 3 things of gratefulness is so wholesome. You can tell a lot about a man by the way he speaks about his family number 1 and his dogs!! Cody is a real ☝🏽 and I’ll always be rooting for him.

[@lukethecardist]

What a way to start the day! Amazing job as always, CVV!

[@TheCoriolanusSnowden]

i've been a fan of cody since his debut in wwe. i love his journey.

[@McWigan]

Commenting early but Cody's right at the start, watching CVV's wrestling interviews the past couple years to pass the time and suddenly you're popping up with the celebs and giving (imo) really good interviews! Glad to see someone I've enjoyed watching doing so well!

[@ChrisVanVliet]

Thanks man!

[@OrangeTestament]

Awesome interview 🙌🏻 I love seeing Cody’s growth through the years.

[@coastermaniacs]

Loved this love seeing how far you’ve come

[@Spengo]

Theres no-one in this game as good as you - could watch your interviews all day. Great interview

[@SURCALIFASFULLERTON]

Only podcast I can sit at home and watch the whole interview Chris always bringing up the topics we’re all dying to know him and Cody definitely in particular is always a great interview 💯💯

[@moises9090]

To be a fly on the wall during Vince and Cody's meeting.

[@j.k.1239]

Vince be like: You should have been my son.

[@elder4481]

Cody is genuine and hardworking, it’s going to be so great when he finally gets the title

[@maryal-kethairi467]

Hopefully he will win art Wrestlemania 40.Wwe better do the right thing and make it happen

[@maryal-kethairi467]

Congrats on being a father Chris

[@dimitrisxairetakis2612]

Hey man, I don’t know if you see these comments, but imma shoot my shot. I got into wrestling fairly recently (mid20s), mostly because of storytelling etc. I love exploring new media. You are one of the most skilled “interviewers” I’ve ever seen across any field. The way you structure them, the way you purposefully ask certain things in a certain way to turn them into instagram reels, really methodical. I respect your craft a lot. You could honestly do a little masterclass on your methods and preparation, but also “in-ring” psychology. Kudos again, keep up the excellent work!

[@jamo3976]

Jesus betting on wrestling is just the craziest 😂

[@jessisanchez8150]

I'm an AEW fan who grew up in the WWF-WWE Aggression Era, I understood why he left, he is an utter gentleman who continues to honor his father's legacy.

[@elizabethgeorge168]

Same but Attitude Era. I watch more AEW these days but nothing but love for Cody.

[@biancaenera2500]

WWE wrestlers are far better!

[@shahankokeawan]

Incredible interview as well

[@NEWJACKson445]

Love your show man, APPRECIATE YOUR CONTENT, and stay strong.

[@ObeyTheSystem4]

You're my favorite interviewer, Chris. I've watched you for a long time and to see where you are now is incredible. Keep it up 🔥🔥

[@walkerdevin08]

This was such a great interview.

[@williamnimbach6419]

Great interview and questions chris!!

[@PatrickNCopes]

Great interview. Enjoyed it

[@AnarooDub]

Another great one Chris. Keep it up bro 👍

[@leviking564]

made me wait days for a 24 minute interview?! worth it

[@V1LL1N]

2 True Pros I am always proud of, and I dont know why I cant help it! ...shouts to DDP too...the man

[@HeartOfALion313]

Dude you are the best inteviewer! Love your work! Congrats on being a father and keep up the great work!

[@jduke93]

Love this! Thank you CVV

[@JGilbert11]

What an interview Chris. If only it was an hour long but he must be a busy man. Keep smashing it 💪

[@ChrisVanVliet]

Next one will be longer!

[@JGilbert11]

@@ChrisVanVliet 🤩🤩

[@michaelcostantino5830]

Chris Your Killing It!!! Keep It Up!! We Need A Seth, Fin & Roman Interview In Near Future!! Sky’s The Limit Brotha!!

[@simone21939]

15:53 Cody talking about “long road” etc kinda looks like a spoiler for next WM. In Italy we say “Pulcinella’s secret” when something is a secret even if everybody know about it, Cody vs Roman part 2 is a Pulcinella’s secret but it almost looks like the plan for him to win is already set in stone somehow

[@zakkmylde1712]

If they do indeed headline Mania next year there is almost no way that he won't walk out champion. It's gonna be in Philadelphia and it would be the perfect stage for a Rocky 2 moment.

[@simone21939]

@zakkmylde1712 I know, that is the ending everybody wants but at the same time the way he says that it looks like they already have it set up. This way we only wait for A to go to B, everybody already knew it was going to happen but that sentence looked like a confirmation

[@bencromwell707]

Great Interview With Cody Salute To Chris💯👍

[@KendallHoltzman]

Amazing video Chris! Big Fan!

[@lukaakorotaj3064]

Now this is the interview I was waiting for!

[@Trowe0182]

Great interview Chris brings out some good stuff in all his stuff

[@crixus9336]

Chris my man, you are looking sharp. 👌 Always great to hear Cody's interviews

[@riceshaddow]

Awesome interview Chris!

[@thechroniclepodcastbrand]

Chris with the conversational Session 😩😩😩😩😩 thank you Sir 🙌

[@absolute_misery]

Best interviewer ever. Lovvvvvve the wrestling behind the scenes so much.

[@ERICX909]

Easily the best wrestling interviewer. Thank you for another banger CVV!

[@BeyondTheScript]

Great interview Chris! Woooahhhh Ohhhhhh!!!!

[@kevinwilson3296]

Hang on a second. I noticed that cut at 15:46😂😂😂

[@svresh]

Genuinely hyped for his documentary

[@alonelypotato2788]

hey chris does my bookie available in other country? or its only in USA?

[@gabet3754]

This interview makes a bigger fan of Cody. I’m not gonna lie, I didn’t grow up watching Dusty or saw Cody’s come up, but I’ve done my research on the guy and he’s awesome.

[@d.9258]

Cody seems like a legitimately likeable, good dude

[@dionshare7103]

Oh boy I think I'm going have to check into this guy doing this interview more. I've only seen a few. He's cool.

[@Mula510]

Another Great Interview Chris 👏🏽

[@ChrisVanVliet]

Much appreciated!

[@CliffDogg910]

Chris you are one of the best and most genuine interviewers around salute to you bro

[@BINKRAY]

Good interview Chris Denker

[@luissegura9316]

Suits on POINT Mr. Van Vliet!

[@danielmelo7146]

I could listen to Cody and CVV talk about Professional Wrestling for hours. Thank you.

[@jnsaudio81]

Notice the cut at "was there ever a version where you walked out as champion" ...

[@vrautomotive]

Nothing like an interview in a prevost!!❤❤

[@Chey_Cha1]

24:06 ➡️: Chris’ DDP impression is impeccable 🤣👌

[@killerk3431]

I hate that this interview was so short but great interview nevertheless

[@trustnoone3007]

Welll....WWE wrestlers kind of can't stay to talk long or be interviewed long enough which tends to happen. This Cody interview on the other hand was a respectable time run and good enough.

[@nwasyko]

Love the edit when he asked if there was a plan where he walked out with the title. You know Cody spilled some beans and they had to cut it. lol

[@coded3604]

Just started!

[@cheyenneryan9355]

cody has come so far and im so proud of that

[@bpalm613]

Getting ahead on the Doc. Smart!

[@reggiewolfpac]

This was a great Interview Cody so cool bruh & I'm still mad he didn't win at Wrestlemania 39 hopefully he'll win the WWE Universal championship later down the road.

[@BarryAllenBG]

bro he is still beating reigns at next mania

[@mringram]

Great interview Chris

[@JarodShapiro]

Chris ur a great role model. Thank you

[@ericsmith9835]

Consistent top notch interviews.

[@N3gativeR3FLUX]

Well earned Mr Runnels. Well earned.

[@The_Black_Market]

Loved the edit after the Wrestlemania question.

[@gman2015z]

CVV dressed up like how Cody is always dressed up.

[@six6thdisciple]

JUST NOTICED & ITS WERID

[@ChrisVanVliet]

We were dressed up for the red carpet premiere of Cody's new documentary!

[@MakeMeCare89]

@@six6thdisciple Vliet is f**king HOT so who cares what he wears? hahahaha

[@ryanandrewsaunders3652]

Dam you had me 15:48 nice video editing. I’m very curious if there’s any plans for him to walk out champion.

[@BrandonDavisBD]

this is absolutely great stuff chris

[@mastertobs2885]

One of the best interviewers out !