The wrestling world is once again looking back to the moment when the 2024 Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 list was released. The reason is WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes’ text message, which was recently recalled by AEW star Swerve Strickland.
The Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 list ranks the top 500 wrestlers of the year. Last year, Cody Rhodes took the top spot, while AEW’s Swerve Strickland claimed second place after an incredible year in the ring.
Given their close rankings, it’s not surprising that they engaged in a lighthearted text conversation after the list’s release.
Strickland recalled texting Rhodes immediately following the rankings’ release in an interview with Vlad TV. Reflecting on their friendship, Strickland said, “I’m still friends with him. When [the list] came out, I texted him, I was like, I missed you by one, you son of a bitch.’”
He added, “He texts me back, he’s like, ‘Honestly, dude, you should have been one.’ That’s the competition we have between, it’s a good one. I was like, ‘Ah, I wanted to beat you so bad.’ He’s like, ‘Yeah.’”
Cody Rhodes honors Rey Mysterio at Monday Night Raw
During Monday Night Raw at the OVO Hydro in Glasgow, Cody Rhodes honored wrestling legend Rey Mysterio in a touching moment.
The show featured an impromptu six-man tag match, where Rhodes teamed up with CM Punk and Mysterio to face The Judgment Day faction—Finn Bálor, Dominik Mysterio, and Carlito.
CM PUNK AND CODY RHODES GIVING REY MYSTERIO HIS FLOWERS AFTER #WWERAW WENT OFF THE AIR
— FADE (@FadeAwayMedia) March 25, 2025
YOU LOVE TO SEE IT ❤️ pic.twitter.com/KzOhJh6iM9
Rhodes, Punk, and Mysterio emerged victorious in a thrilling match that was characterized by teamwork and energy. Afterward, Rhodes seized the microphone to express his gratitude to the ‘619 Master’ for his influence on wrestling and his devoted fans.
CM Punk also demonstrated his respect by bowing to Mysterio, which elicited a chorus of cheers and the chanting of his name from the audience.
