The Runnels Family Grows: 5 Shocking Facts About Cody Rhodes' New Baby, Leilani Ella

The "American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and his wife, Brandi Rhodes, have quietly ushered in a new chapter of their lives, stunning the wrestling world with the surprise announcement of their second child. The news, which broke in late August 2025, confirmed that the Undisputed WWE Champion is now a proud father of two daughters, further expanding the legendary Runnels family dynasty.

As of today, December 11, 2025, the newest member of the Nightmare Family is Leilani Ella Runnels, a healthy baby girl whose arrival was kept completely private until after her birth. This level of secrecy is a testament to the couple’s desire to maintain privacy despite their high-profile careers, making the reveal one of the biggest and most heartwarming news stories in professional wrestling this year.

Cody Rhodes: Full Biography and The American Nightmare's Legacy

Cody Garrett Runnels Rhodes, known universally by his ring name Cody Rhodes, was born on June 30, 1985, in Marietta, Georgia. He is the son of the late, great WWE Hall of Famer Virgil Riley Runnels Jr., better known as "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes, and his second wife, Michelle Rubio.

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Cody's heritage places him firmly within wrestling royalty, alongside his half-brother, Dustin Runnels (Goldust/Dustin Rhodes). He began his professional wrestling career in 2006, rising to prominence in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) where he held multiple championships, including two Intercontinental Championships and six Tag Team Championships.

A pivotal moment in his career came in 2016 when he left WWE to reinvent himself, a journey that led him to the independent circuit, New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), and eventually becoming an Executive Vice President and co-founder of All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

His triumphant return to WWE in 2022 marked the beginning of his quest to "Finish the Story," culminating in him becoming the current Undisputed WWE Champion. Rhodes is also a two-time Royal Rumble winner, solidifying his status as one of the most decorated and popular stars in the industry.

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• Full Name: Cody Garrett Runnels Rhodes
• Born: June 30, 1985
• Birthplace: Marietta, Georgia, U.S.
• Ring Name: Cody Rhodes ("The American Nightmare")
• Father: Dusty Rhodes (Virgil Runnels Jr.)
• Mother: Michelle Rubio
• Spouse: Brandi Rhodes (Brandi Alexis Runnels)
• Children: Liberty Iris Runnels and Leilani Ella Runnels
• Major Career Highlights: Undisputed WWE Champion, 2x Royal Rumble Winner, AEW Executive Vice President, 2x WWE Intercontinental Champion.

The Surprise Arrival of Leilani Ella Runnels

The biggest update regarding the "cody rhodes new baby" is the birth of his second daughter, Leilani Ella Runnels. This announcement took the entire wrestling community by surprise because Brandi Rhodes, a former professional wrestler and Chief Brand Officer of AEW, had managed to keep her entire pregnancy a secret.

Leilani Ella was born on Friday, August 29, 2025. Brandi Rhodes shared the joyous news on social media, posting a heartfelt message that included the full name of their new baby.

The name itself, Leilani Ella, is a beautiful choice that carries significant meaning. "Leilani" is a Hawaiian name meaning "heavenly flower" or "royal child," a fitting moniker for the daughter of the "American Nightmare" and a member of wrestling's royalty. "Ella" is a classic, elegant name meaning "all" or "Goddess."

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This news comes at the height of Cody's career, as he is currently holding the Undisputed WWE Championship. Fans and colleagues alike poured out congratulations, recognizing the profound significance of balancing a demanding schedule as a top-tier WWE Superstar with the responsibilities of a growing family. The couple’s first daughter, Liberty Iris Runnels, was born in June 2021, and now she takes on the new role of a big sister.

The decision to keep the pregnancy private is a reflection of the couple's desire for a quiet, personal experience, especially given the intense public scrutiny that follows the "Nightmare Family." Brandi's emotional update following the birth expressed deep gratitude, signaling the overwhelming love and joy the new baby has brought into their home.

A Growing Dynasty: The Runnels Family and The Nightmare Legacy

The birth of Leilani Ella Runnels is not just a personal milestone; it is a continuation of one of the most storied dynasties in professional wrestling history. The Runnels family legacy, which began with Dusty Rhodes, is now firmly in its third generation.

Cody Rhodes has often spoken about the pressures and pride of carrying the family name, and with two daughters, the "Nightmare Family" is expanding in a beautiful new way. He has successfully carved out his own unique path, known for his "Adrenaline" and dedication to the craft, but he remains deeply rooted in his family values.

The family dynamic now includes:

• Cody Rhodes: The Undisputed WWE Champion and patriarch.
• Brandi Rhodes: The former wrestler, entrepreneur, and mother of two.
• Liberty Iris Runnels: The first daughter, born in 2021.
• Leilani Ella Runnels: The new baby, born in 2025.

The presence of two young children at home adds a new layer to Cody's already intense schedule as a top WWE Superstar. The emotional toll of being on the road while his wife is recovering and his children are growing is a reality many wrestlers face, but Cody and Brandi have always presented a united front, supporting each other's careers and family goals.

The name "Runnels" is the true family surname, and both daughters carry it, ensuring the lineage of Dusty Rhodes continues. While it is too early to speculate on whether Liberty Iris or Leilani Ella will follow in their family's footsteps, their birth ensures the Rhodes/Runnels name will be associated with the wrestling world for decades to come.

The Impact of The New Baby on Cody's Championship Run

Cody Rhodes’ current run as Undisputed WWE Champion is arguably the most significant of his career, a journey he dubbed "Finishing the Story." The birth of Leilani Ella Runnels provides a new, deeply personal motivation for "The American Nightmare."

It is common for Superstars to dedicate their championships and major victories to their children, and Cody's commitment to his family has always been a central part of his on-screen persona. The championship belt itself now represents more than just a career goal; it is a symbol of the hard work and sacrifice that allows him to provide for his two daughters and wife.

His rivalry with figures like Roman Reigns and his pursuit of the top prize were all part of that story, and now, the story has a new, beautiful chapter. The Cody Rhodes new baby news provides a heartwarming contrast to the aggressive, often violent world of professional wrestling, showcasing the man behind the persona: a dedicated father and husband.

The support from the wrestling world has been overwhelming, with fans and peers celebrating the expansion of the Runnels family. This continuous support highlights the genuine affection the audience has for Cody and Brandi, not just as performers, but as a power couple navigating the challenges of fame and parenthood. The arrival of Leilani Ella is truly a blessing for the "American Nightmare" and a joyous event for the entire WWE Universe.