CM Punk: Dusty Rhodes Believing In You When No One Else Does Is Powerful

Charlotte Flair and CM Punk remember Dusty Rhodes.

WrestleMania 40 ended in historic fashion as Cody Rhodes defeated Roman Reigns to “finish the story” and win the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. The moment was emotional for many who have followed Cody’s journey and for those who have also been impacted by his father, “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes.

Following WrestleMania Sunday, fellow WWE stars Charlotte Flair and CM Punk spoke to Joe Tessitore of ESPN to react to Cody finishing the story and how Dusty impacted each of them.

“I know his dad is here somewhere,” Flair said. “I’ve known Cody since he was a kid and the reason I’m here today is partly because of how much Dusty believed in me. But just knowing what this moment means — and I promise you — I don’t think his dad could have ever pictured this. Pro wrestling is in Cody’s blood, and his mom holding the title, and the story, it’s a love story. I don’t know how else to — I’m trying to hold back tears. It’s emotional.”

“It’s a legit emotional affair,” Punk said. “You said you’ve known Cody since you were kids, I feel like I’ve known you and Cody since you were both kids, and I knew Dusty. Having a guy like Dusty Rhodes believe in you when no one else does is powerful. It’s magic. I used to think I was the only one, and then he took over NXT and, man, he developed talent everywhere and possibly, it goes without saying, the best talent he possibly developed was his son Cody.”

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit ESPN with a h/t to WrestleZone for the transcription.