Dusty Rhodes: The American Dream of Professional Wrestling

Virgil Riley Runnels Jr., better known by his iconic ring name “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes, was born on October 11, 1945, in Austin, Texas. A larger-than-life figure in the world of professional wrestling, Rhodes became one of the most beloved and influential personalities in the sport’s history. Known for his charisma, creativity, and connection with the common man, Dusty Rhodes left an indelible mark on wrestling as a performer, booker, and mentor.

Early Life and Athletic Beginnings

After graduating from Albert Sidney Johnston High School in Austin, Rhodes attended West Texas State University (now West Texas A&M University), where he played both football and baseball. He pursued a professional football career, trying out for the American Football League’s Boston Patriots, but was cut. He later played for the Hartford Charter Oaks in the Continental Football League until the team folded. His athleticism and determination would soon find a new outlet in the squared circle.

Rise to Wrestling Stardom

Dusty Rhodes rose to prominence in an era dominated by bodybuilders and bleached-blond superstars. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Rhodes had a rotund belly and a conspicuous red blotch on his side—features that made him relatable to fans. Billed as “the son of a plumber,” Rhodes embraced the persona of the “common man,” and his everyman appeal made him a box office sensation. He was never afraid to endure brutal scripted beatings to generate sympathy and elevate his heel opponents.

Rhodes became a three-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion and held numerous other titles during his time with Jim Crockett Promotions (JCP), later known as World Championship Wrestling (WCW). He was a United States Heavyweight Champion, World Television Champion, World Tag Team Champion, and World Six-Man Tag Team Champion. He also won many regional championships and is one of only seven men inducted into the WWE, WCW, Professional Wrestling, and Wrestling Observer Newsletter Halls of Fame.

Legendary Feuds and Alliances

Rhodes had memorable feuds with wrestling legends such as Abdullah the Butcher, Terry Funk, Kevin Sullivan, Blackjack Mulligan, Harley Race, Superstar Billy Graham, and “Crippler” Ray Stevens. His most iconic rivalry was with The Four Horsemen, particularly Ric Flair and Tully Blanchard. Rhodes, Flair, and Race clashed many times over the NWA World Heavyweight Championship.

He also formed legendary tag teams, including “America’s Team” with Magnum T.A., who tragically retired after a car accident in 1986. Rhodes then teamed with Nikita Koloff as “The Super Powers,” and he also held the World Six-Man Tag Team Championship twice with The Road Warriors.

The Voice of the People

Dusty Rhodes was not only a master in the ring but also one of the greatest talkers in wrestling history. His promos were passionate, heartfelt, and often poetic. One of his most famous promos came during the “Hard Times” tour in 1985, where he declared:

“People in this country, in this universe, all over the world now, reachin’ out because the love that was given me and this time I will repay you now. Because I will be the next World’s Heavyweight Champion of this hard time blues.”

He continued, addressing Ric Flair:

“One way to hurt Ric Flair is to take what he cherishes more than anything in the world and that’s the World’s Heavyweight title. I’m gon’ take it, I been there twice. This time when I take it daddy, I’m gon’ take it for you.”

Innovator and Booker

Rhodes is often regarded as one of the most innovative bookers in wrestling history. He helped pioneer the concept of “supercards” and gimmick matches, which became staples in the industry. However, his “old school” philosophy sometimes clashed with the fast-paced demands of cable television. His frequent use of the “Dusty finish”—a controversial match ending that created ambiguity—was effective in the territorial days but began to frustrate fans in the modern era.

WWE and NXT Contributions

After retiring from active competition, Rhodes made occasional on-air appearances in WWE and worked behind the scenes as a booker and producer, particularly in WWE’s NXT developmental territory. His influence helped shape the next generation of talent, and his legacy lives on through his sons: Dustin Rhodes (Goldust) and Cody Rhodes, who currently perform in AEW and WWE, respectively.

WWE Chairman Vince McMahon once said, “No wrestler personified the essence of charisma quite like Dusty Rhodes.”

TNA and Later Career

In 2003, Rhodes joined Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), where he returned to the ring to feud with the villainous Sports Entertainment Xtreme faction. He participated in numerous matches, including teaming with Road Warriors and Jeff Jarrett, and later with America’s Most Wanted. He also reformed The Super Powers with Nikita Koloff, though Koloff turned on him.

Rhodes competed in various match types—Bunkhouse matches, Ladder matches, and Bullrope matches—against opponents like David Flair, Brian Lawler, and Glen Gilbertti. He also wrestled under a mask as “Midnight Rider” and campaigned to replace Vince Russo as TNA’s Director of Authority, a role he eventually assumed at the Victory Road pay-per-view in November 2004.

As Director of Authority, Rhodes made key decisions, including declaring that all matches at the Lockdown PPV would be held in a Six Sides of Steel cage. He also announced that MMA fighter Tito Ortiz would referee the World Title match at Hard Justice 2005. In May 2005, TNA President Dixie Carter asked Rhodes to join a creative team with Jeremy Borash, Bill Banks, and Scott D’Amore. Rhodes eventually resigned as booker and waited out the remainder of his contract.

Legacy and Passing

Dusty Rhodes passed away on June 11, 2015, leaving behind a legacy that transcends generations. He was more than a wrestler—he was a storyteller, a mentor, and a symbol of hope for the working class. His influence continues to shape the wrestling world through his family, his students, and the countless fans who still chant his name.

Dusty Rhodes was, and always will be, “The American Dream.”