Cody and Brandi Rhodes Announce Surprise Birth of Baby Girl Leilani Ella Runnels

It’s a surprise celebration for the Rhodes family!

Wrestling power couple Cody Rhodes and Brandi Rhodes have announced the unexpected arrival of their second child, a baby girl named Leilani Ella Runnels. Brandi broke the news with a heartwarming post on X (formerly Twitter), writing:

“Welcome to the world Leilani Ella Runnels. We are in love. Thank you God for answered prayers. Cody + Brandi + Libby + Lani = ❤️”

Cody shared his own emotional response, simply posting:

Gen V Season 2 Release Date, Time, Episodes & Schedule

“Three taps on the ground. My Leilani 💕”

This marks the second daughter for the couple, who welcomed their first child, Liberty “Libby” Runnels, back in 2021. Fans and fellow wrestlers flooded the couple’s social media with congratulatory messages, as the Rhodes family grows by one.

Why Cody Rhodes Has Been Missing from WWE TV

While fans were overjoyed by the baby news, many have also been wondering about Cody Rhodes’ recent absence from WWE television.

Robert Redford and Paul Newman: A Rare Hollywood Friendship

The Undisputed WWE Champion has been off-screen since he was attacked by Drew McIntyre with a Claymore Kick on SmackDown, shortly after retaining the title against John Cena at SummerSlam Night Two in New Jersey. Although many expected the beatdown to set up a future feud—possibly for Clash in Paris—Rhodes has yet to reappear, and he is not booked for the event.

So what gives?

McIntyre Speaks Out: “Cody Needs a Wake-Up Call”

On a recent episode of the Huge Pop podcast with Donnie Dasilva and Jimmy Korderas, Drew McIntyre addressed the feud and offered insight into his shocking attack.

Ned Fulmer Breaks Silence on Cheating Scandal After 3 Years

“It’s the WWE Championship, the one I carried during the pandemic. I want that title back. Cody’s holding it now, but he doesn’t understand the responsibility that comes with it,” McIntyre said.

The Scottish superstar hinted at a long-standing rivalry, rooted in their early days together in WWE. He didn’t shy away from criticizing Cody’s attitude either:

“He’s so desperate to be liked… I think he needs to learn the hard way what this business really is.”

It’s clear McIntyre is targeting Rhodes for both personal and professional reasons, and a match between the two feels inevitable—once Cody returns.

Cody’s Street Fighter Role May Be Keeping Him Off TV

Adding another layer to his time away from the ring, Cody Rhodes is rumored to be cast as Guile in the upcoming live-action Street Fighter movie. While no official announcement has been made, insiders suggest filming may be underway or starting soon, which could explain his extended WWE absence.

Between family life, movie commitments, and storyline recovery, Cody’s plate is full—and fans may have to wait a little longer for his next in-ring appearance.

What’s Next for the Rhodes Family?

Right now, it looks like Cody is taking time to focus on fatherhood, especially with a newborn in the mix. With Brandi and their two daughters at home, fans can expect a quieter, more personal chapter for the American Nightmare—at least for the moment.

But when Cody Rhodes does return, expect fireworks. Whether it’s to defend his title or to confront Drew McIntyre, the comeback is sure to be a big one.

Until then, congratulations to Cody and Brandi Rhodes on their growing family and the arrival of baby Leilani Ella Runnels. Wrestling’s favorite couple just added another reason to celebrate.