Cody Rhodes and Brandi Rhodes recently delighted fans with the announcement of the birth of their second child, a daughter named Leilani Ella Runnels. This news came as a shock to many within the wrestling community, as Brandi’s pregnancy had not been publicly disclosed before this announcement. The couple posted heartfelt messages on social media, emphasizing their gratitude and joy: “Welcome to the world Leilani Ella Runnels. We are in love. Thank you God for answered prayers. Cody + Brandi + Libby + Lani = ❤️.” The news was shared on Brandi’s Twitter account, accompanied by a touching photo of their new baby’s hand.
### Background on Cody and Brandi Rhodes
Cody and Brandi Rhodes’ love story began in WWE, where they first met during Brandi’s time as a ring announcer. The pair married in 2013 and subsequently branched out of WWE in 2016 to explore opportunities across various wrestling promotions, including the indies, TNA, and Ring of Honor. They eventually played crucial roles in the establishment of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), with Cody serving as an Executive Vice President and Brandi as Chief Branding Officer. Their journey in the wrestling business has not only solidified their individual careers but also established them as a power couple in the industry.
In June 2021, they welcomed their first daughter, Liberty. This new addition to their family, Leilani, marks a beautifully significant milestone in their lives, creating a family dynamic that resonates deeply with fans.
### Cody Rhodes’ Recent Wrestling Journey
Cody’s wrestling career has been characterized by a series of major triumphs and significant comebacks. After leaving AEW at the beginning of 2022, he made a remarkable return to WWE at WrestleMania 38, facing Seth Rollins in a surprise match. His re-emergence quickly positioned him as one of WWE’s leading stars.
In 2024, Cody won the Undisputed WWE Championship, marking a pinnacle achievement in his wrestling story, and he has been a central figure in WWE’s narrative since. However, his future in the ring became uncertain after he was sidelined following an intense match against Drew McIntyre at the SmackDown after SummerSlam.
His absence has led to much speculation; while many believed it was due to his involvement in a new “Street Fighter” film, fans now know that there were personal joys brewing behind the scenes. The announcement of Leilani’s birth certainly adds a new element to Cody’s journey, unveiling aspects of his life that fans had been unaware of until now.
### Reaction from Fans and the Wrestling Community
The wrestling community has been buzzing with excitement since Brandi shared the news. Fans and fellow wrestlers alike have flooded social media with congratulatory messages, celebrating this new chapter in the Rhodes family. The surprise announcement sparked discussions not only about the couple’s personal lives but also about what it could mean for Cody’s wrestling career moving forward.
Many fans expressed their gratitude for the transparency and candidness with which Cody and Brandi shared this significant life event. The baby’s name, Leilani, has also garnered attention, as fans have begun analyzing its meaning, tying it into personal stories and cultural significances.
### Future Implications for Cody and Brandi
This surprise addition to the Rhodes family raises questions about the immediate future for both Cody and Brandi in the wrestling industry. Taking time off to welcome a new child is a monumental decision, especially for someone like Cody, who has been actively competing at the highest level. As he recovers from his recent injuries and manages his new roles as a father of two, fans are left to wonder when he will make his return to the ring.
Cody was previously rumored to be included in WWE’s upcoming WrestlePalooza show in Indianapolis on Sept. 20, but his absence from WWE programming since SummerSlam raises questions about his participation. Given his significant history and relationship with the company, fans are hopeful that he will find the right balance between family and his professional commitments.
### Brandi Rhodes: The Other Half of the Partnership
While Cody has experienced a resurgence in his wrestling career, Brandi has focused more on her family since leaving AEW. Apart from brief cameos in WWE events, she has chosen to embody the role of a mother and a supportive partner to Cody. Her presence on social media has been less frequent, yet she remains an integral part of the wrestling narrative.
The couple’s journey has also been documented through their reality television show, “Rhodes to the Top,” which aired on Warner Bros. Discovery networks. The show offered fans a glimpse of their personal lives, showcasing both their successes and challenges. Fans are eager to see if this new chapter will lead to more content from the Rhodes family, possibly focusing on their growing family dynamics.
### Conclusion
Cody and Brandi Rhodes’s announcement of their daughter’s birth brings warmth and joy to the wrestling community. As fans celebrate the addition of Leilani Ella Runnels to the Rhodes family, they also reflect on the couple’s journey within the wrestling industry. The intersection of personal milestones and professional commitments is a constant theme for these two, and as they navigate this new landscape, fans are left hopeful for what the future holds for both their family and their wrestling careers.
With Cody now a father of two, and Brandi stepping back to focus on family, the wrestling world watches closely, eager to see how their lives will unfold. For now, the focus remains on love, family, and forging new paths amidst the evolving chapters in their lives. Congratulations to the Rhodes family on this beautiful addition.
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