Cody Rhodes reveals the "battles" that led to his WWE exit

The WWE Universe is happy to have Cody Rhodes back in the company. The American Nightmare left the promotion in 2016 due to creative frustrations.

Cody Rhodes has become a top name in the industry after working hard to prove his capability in the ring. His work in the independent circuit helped him return to WWE as a main eventer after leaving as an enhancement talent.

Speaking to Flagrant, the Undisputed WWE Champion talked about how he wasn’t in the best shape during his first stint in the company as he wasn’t given the individual spotlight.

"That was the thing: I wasn't in great shape, and I had filled the spot as Dustin's partner; we had done really well at that point," he said. "I should have been focused on getting in the best shape of my career, having the best promo, and more importantly, I should have fought the little battles: 'Hey, I don't want to team with my brother today.' 'Hey I don't want to come out to his music.' If the answer's, 'You are,' I still would have gotten better had I fought the little battles."

He said he let his frustrations pile up rather than do something about them, which led to him requesting his release from the Stamford-based promotion. The new fitness culture in the company has helped him evolve even more.

"I knew right in that moment a great deal of this was my fault; a great deal of it," he said before linking his new attitude to the current culture of the WWE locker room. "I know it might seem toxic and stuff but amongst the boys and girls, everyone's like, 'Who does your diet?' 'Who's training,' there's a whole another health-conscious WWE that I love. We're trying to look our best." [H/T Wrestling Inc.]

Cody Rhodes’ decision worked in his favor as he got a chance to prove himself outside WWE. He has since become one of the top names in the industry and a babyface many look up to.

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Cody Rhodes praised Gunther for his WWE transformation

Several superstars have undergone great physical transformations over the years. Gunther is one of the biggest names and has completely changed himself for the better in recent years.

The longest-reigning Intercontinental Champion is now doing great work with the World Heavyweight Championship around his waist. Cody Rhodes praised how The Ring General has transformed himself on the main roster to present his best version.

"Gunther, he used to be on the independents... not a muscle you could see on him, a big, hefty, chop a tree down, killer dude. That manifestation of his goals is right there — you can see he's gotten in the best shape of his career, he looks incredible, he looks the part, and there's this weird online contingent that doesn't realize how important that is," Cody Rhodes said.

The two men will collide for Saturday night's WWE Crown Jewel Championship. The Ring General could walk out of the event with the diamond-studded title.