6 WWE wrestlers Vince McMahon didn't push who are top stars in AEW

#3 Cody Rhodes – AEW Executive Vice President

Cody Rhodes revitalized his pro wrestling career after his WWE exit

AEW wouldn't exist without a few people, one of them being Cody Rhodes. Cody was expected to follow in his father, the great Dusty Rhodes' footsteps, and carve a name for himself in pro-wrestling.

His WWE career couldn't be deemed a "failure" as he won several titles and was a part of the company for a decade, which in itself seems like a great achievement, considering the number of exits in WWE. But, he was never the "top guy" in WWE and didn't stand out on the card.

Cody's post-WWE career has shown what he's truly capable of; not just as an in-ring performer but also as a promoter. He had a good run in NJPW as part of the Bullet Club and The Elite. He also had a brief run in IMPACT Wrestling.

In AEW, his promos have been honest and impactful, while he has told a good story in the ring as well. Cody has had good feuds with the likes of MJF and the late Brodie Lee, and is now in a feud with Malakai Black.