Cody Rhodes, the WWE superstar known for his larger-than-life persona, has unveiled a bold vision for the future of professional wrestling. During a recent interview with TMZ Sports in New York City, the “American Nightmare” revealed his dream of staging a high-stakes WWE match on a decommissioned aircraft carrier—a concept that harks back to the 1990s when wrestling embraced unconventional venues for maximum spectacle.
The Legacy of Unconventional WWE Venues
Wrestling has long thrived on pushing boundaries, from boxing matches in ancient pyramids to MMA events at the White House. Cody Rhodes believes WWE can continue this tradition by revisiting the iconic 1993 match between Yokozuna and Lex Luger on the USS Intrepid, a decommissioned U.S. Navy aircraft carrier. “That was pure chaos in the best way,” Rhodes said. “If we can recreate that energy today, it would be a showstopper.”
The USS Intrepid, now a museum in New York Harbor, hosted one of wrestling’s most memorable moments when Luger hurled Yokozuna through a table onto the flight deck. The match’s raw intensity and the carrier’s imposing structure created a unique blend of athleticism and theatricality. For Rhodes, this history is a blueprint for innovation. “The aircraft carrier isn’t just a backdrop—it’s part of the story,” he explained. “Fans would feel like they’re watching history in the making.”
Cody Rhodes’ Vision for the Future of WWE
Beyond nostalgia, Rhodes sees the aircraft carrier concept as a way to elevate WWE’s storytelling. “Wrestling isn’t just about the ring anymore,” he said. “It’s about creating experiences that fans can’t replicate anywhere else.” His upcoming role in the “Street Fighter” movie, set for release later this year, further fuels his creative ambition. “I want to bring that same cinematic energy to the ring,” he added. “Imagine a match where the carrier’s ramps and machinery become part of the action.”
Rhodes also shared his thoughts on the New York Knicks’ recent NBA Finals run, crediting the team’s success to a mix of talent and “the Danhausen effect.” The reference to his on-screen character—a flamboyant, self-proclaimed “Danhausen”—highlights how WWE personas often intersect with real-world pop culture. “When Danhausen cures Cleveland, the Knicks win,” he joked, drawing laughter from fans at his autograph signing event in Manhattan.
The Cultural Impact of Unique WWE Events
Unconventional venues have long been a cornerstone of WWE’s appeal. From WrestleMania in Las Vegas to Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia, the company thrives on creating “must-see” moments. A match on a decommissioned carrier would align with this strategy while honoring wrestling’s roots. Here’s how such an event could resonate:
- Historical Nostalgia: Recreating the 1993 Intrepid match would bridge decades of wrestling history.
- Visual Spectacle: The carrier’s massive scale and military aesthetics would amplify










