Cody Rhodes officially signs with Ring of Honor

After months of back and forth, Cody Rhodes decided to settle down. Unsurprisingly, it’s with the promotion whose World title he currently holds.

In addition to sending mixed signals during interviews with outlets like Sports Illustrated and CBS Sports, Rhodes’ free agent status was an angle for Ring of Honor (ROH). As he pursued the championship and even during his run, Cody’s been portrayed as an outsider who could potentially leave at any time. His contact signing was filmed during the post-pay-per-view (PPV) tapings for ROH TV on Saturday, Sept. 23 in Las Vegas, and it was confirmed via press release and a story on the company’s website ahead of time - so this is the end of any real world or in-story suspense.

In announcing the deal as “the most generous offer in Ring of Honor history”, however, it will likely remain an aspect of kayfabe for the heel champ.

The contract is said to be for several years and will give ROH exclusive rights to use him in North America, but he’ll still be available internationally when their schedule allows - including appearing for New Japan.

In the press release, Rhodes is quoted as saying:

“I grew up in this business, I've seen its peaks and valleys...I know we are entering an unprecedented time in pro wrestling/sports entertainment and it’s time to put my flag in the sand. Joe Koff and his team put together such a generous offer...with some non-wrestling projects on the horizon that I hope to announce soon, and the potential of starting a family down the road...it was a perfect fit. Myself, Marty Scurll, Hangman Page, Matt and Nick Jackson...it's the dream team...like the 1992 dream team. I have several goals in mind for myself and for ROH and I can't wait to get started.”

Cody bet on himself after almost a decade with WWE, and if there was any doubt before, this deal seems to confirm the bet paid off. In the opinion of many, he’s not impressing with great matches, but that hasn’t stopped him from being a draw.

We’ll see if any of that changes now that he’s made his home in The Honorable Ring.