In a move that has left the wrestling and business worlds reeling, WWE superstar Cody Rhodes has made headlines by rejecting a staggering $10 million offer from billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk. The announcement came during a press conference on April 2, 2025, just days after Rhodes successfully defended his Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 41. Known as “The American Nightmare,” Rhodes stunned fans and pundits alike with his bold refusal, delivering a powerful message that has sparked widespread discussion: “Keep it and spend it on something that actually helps people!” The rejection of such a massive sum has cemented Rhodes’ reputation not just as a champion in the ring, but as a man of principle off it.
The offer from Musk, the Tesla and SpaceX mogul, reportedly stemmed from a private conversation between the two at a charity gala in Los Angeles in late March. Musk, a known wrestling enthusiast who has attended WWE events in the past, was said to be impressed by Rhodes’ meteoric rise since returning to WWE in 2022. Sources close to the situation suggest the $10 million was tied to a potential endorsement deal, possibly linked to Musk’s X platform or a promotional campaign for one of his ventures. Musk took to X on March 31, posting, “Cody Rhodes is a warrior—his grit inspires millions. I stand with him,” hinting at his admiration for the wrestler’s journey from underdog to top star. Yet, Rhodes’ response was anything but expected.
Standing before a packed room of reporters, Rhodes addressed the offer with characteristic candor. “I’m flattered by Elon’s support—it means a lot,” he said, pausing to let the weight of his next words sink in. “But I can’t take this money. There are people out there who need it more—families struggling to eat, kids without schools, communities rebuilding after disasters. Keep it and spend it on something that actually helps people.” The room fell silent, a rare moment of stillness in the usually boisterous world of wrestling press. Rhodes, who has often spoken about his late father Dusty Rhodes’ legacy of giving back, made it clear that his decision was rooted in a deeper purpose beyond personal gain.
Rhodes’ career has been a testament to perseverance. After leaving WWE in 2016, he reinvented himself on the independent scene and co-founded All Elite Wrestling (AEW), only to return to WWE and claim the title his father never won. His victory over Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40 in 2024 was a career-defining moment, and his reign since has solidified him as the face of the company. Off the ring, Rhodes has been active in philanthropy, supporting causes like pediatric cancer research and disaster relief through his “American Nightmare Family” foundation. This history lends credence to his rejection of Musk’s millions, framing it as less a publicity stunt and more a genuine stand.
The reaction online was swift and divided. On X, fans praised Rhodes’ integrity, with one writing, “Cody just proved he’s a champ in life, not just wrestling—respect.” Others questioned the move, arguing he could have accepted the money and donated it himself. “Why not take it and control where it goes?” one user posted. Musk, for his part, responded with a cryptic tweet on April 2: “Respect to Cody. The offer stands—let’s find a way to make it count.” Whether this hints at a future collaboration remains unclear, but it suggests Musk isn’t backing down from his admiration.
WWE has stayed quiet on the matter, though insiders say the company views Rhodes’ decision as a boon for his heroic persona. With SummerSlam 2025 on the horizon, where he’s rumored to face Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, this moment only amplifies his star power. Meanwhile, Musk’s recent forays into high-profile gestures—like his $1 million voter giveaways in 2024—have kept him in the headlines, making this clash of titans a cultural talking point.
Rhodes’ refusal echoes a growing trend among public figures prioritizing impact over wealth. His words challenge not just Musk, but society at large, to rethink how resources are used. At 39, with a young daughter and a legacy to uphold, Rhodes seems driven by more than titles or paychecks. “I’ve got everything I need,” he told reporters, flashing his trademark grin. “The real win is making a difference.” As the wrestling world watches his next move, one thing is certain: Cody Rhodes has shocked the world, not with a suplex, but with a statement that resonates far beyond the squared circle.
