WWE returned to Japan after a five-year absence with two exciting nights of wrestling at the Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo. The show was full of memorable moments, from Meiko Samura’s bold announcement that she wanted to challenge Bayley for the WWE Women’s Championship before she retired, to an emotional Cody Rhodes segment.
Cody Rhodes’ unforgettable main event
On the first night, Cody Rhodes successfully defended his WWE Undisputed Championship against AJ Styles in an epic main event. However, at the end of the game, there was a very sad moment, as Rhode received a wonderful gift – his late father Dusty Rhode’s famous costume and hat.
.@CodyRhodes was gifted his father Dusty’s legendary robe during a heartfelt moment at #WWETokyo 🥹❤️ pic.twitter.com/fkDXURTliY
— WWE (@WWE) July 26, 2024
Thanks to the “American Dream”
Shocked, Rhodes dons his father’s coat and hat and sings “American Dream” with pride and nostalgia. Cody imitates Dusty’s signature style and shows off in the ring, much to the delight of the Tokyo crowd. His role is a tribute to his father, a famous Japanese wrestler.
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Despite his nickname “The American Dream,” Dusty Rhodes has a special place in Japanese wrestling history. He first toured Japan in 1975 with All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW), then joined the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). He had many fans and his prowess in the ring, and his presence was established during the tours of Japan with New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) in the 1980s.
Dusty Rhodes’ involvement in Japan is more than just an opportunity; He is a big man in various important competitions. His performance in the MSG Series, the start of the NJPW G1 Climax, cemented his status as a world wrestling icon. Dusty was last seen in Japan in 2004, competing on ZERO-ONE and the original pay-per-view program HUSTLE. Most notably, he worked with his son Dustin Rhodes (Jr.) and his close friend Steve Corino.
Cody Rhodes ended up thanking his father with a Japanese bow, as a sign of respect and thanks to the Tokyo crowd. This move not only honors his father’s legacy but also recognizes Dusty’s deep ties to Japanese wrestling fans. Cody’s heartfelt thanks to the audience emphasized his family’s special connection to Japan.
His legacy lives on
Cody Rhodes’ display of Dusty’s helmet and helmet was more than just a moment; a symbol of the passing of light, to connect generations and countries. It’s a reminder of Dusty’s power in the wrestling world and his legacy that lives on and is now carried on by his son.
As the WWE tour in Japan progresses, fans are showing heartfelt appreciation and offering congratulations to the Rhodes family. Cody Rhodes’ homage to Dusty stood out as the top moment of the evening, showcasing the lasting strength of family bonds and the impact of wrestling heritage.
