Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and his wife, Brandi Rhodes, have welcomed their second daughter. Brandi announced the birth of Leilani Ella Runnels on Friday via her social media accounts.
In a post on Instagram, Brandi shared the family’s excitement. “Welcome to the world Leilani Ella Runnels. We are in love. Thank you God for answered prayers. Cody + Brandi + Libby + Lani.” The couple’s first daughter, Liberty Iris, was born in June 2021.
This family milestone comes while Cody Rhodes is on a hiatus from WWE. He is currently in Sydney, Australia, filming his role as Guile in the upcoming “Street Fighter” movie, which is scheduled for a 2026 release. His filming schedule is expected to conclude before September 20.
On WWE television, Rhodes’ absence is attributed to a kayfabe head injury sustained from an attack by Drew McIntyre. Following the main event of the August 8 SmackDown, McIntyre assaulted Rhodes, finishing with a Claymore Kick that sent the champion headfirst into the announcer’s table.
In the weeks since the attack, McIntyre has continued to taunt the absent champion. The feud has recently drawn in Randy Orton, who delivered an RKO to McIntyre on a recent episode of SmackDown.
Due to his filming commitments, which will begin on September 2, Rhodes will not be present for Clash in Paris. However, reports indicate his return could align with Wrestlepalooza on September 20, where a WWE Championship match against Drew McIntyre has been discussed.