Dusty Rhodes

Biography

Dusty Rhodes, born as Virgil Riley Runnels Jr. on October 12, 1945, in Austin, Texas, was a celebrated professional wrestler and booker. Known as “The American Dream,” Rhodes connected with audiences through his charismatic persona and compelling promos that often focused on working-class struggles.

Career History and Evolution

Dusty Rhodes began his wrestling career in the 1960s, and his in-ring style and charisma quickly set him apart. He primarily wrestled in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA), where he became a major star.
Rhodes also wrestled in the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) and the American Wrestling Association (AWA). Post his active wrestling career, Rhodes served as a booker and trainer in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and later in WWE’s developmental territories, where he influenced a new generation of talent.

Titles Won and Biggest Matches

Dusty Rhodes was a three-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion. He also held numerous regional titles in the NWA territories, including multiple reigns as Florida Heavyweight Champion and Georgia Heavyweight Champion.
Rhodes had many memorable matches, but his biggest might be his series of matches against Ric Flair and the Four Horsemen in the NWA. His “Bunkhouse Stampede” match win at Madison Square Garden was a notable achievement.

Biggest Rivalries and Tag Team Partners

Dusty Rhodes had significant rivalries with Ric Flair, “Superstar” Billy Graham, Tully Blanchard, and Terry Funk. These feuds were characterized by intense promos and brutal matches.
In terms of tag team partners, Rhodes often teamed up with fellow wrestler Dick Murdoch to form “The Texas Outlaws.” They achieved great success as a team in various territories.

Family Life

Dusty Rhodes was married to Michelle Rubio, with whom he had four children, including professional wrestlers Dustin Rhodes (Goldust) and Cody Rhodes. The Rhodes family has had a substantial influence on professional wrestling.

Finishing Move, Clothing, and Entrance Music

Dusty Rhodes’ finishing move was the “Bionic Elbow,” a pointed elbow drop that became one of the most iconic moves in wrestling.
Rhodes often wrestled in black trunks and boots, but his attire also included cowboy boots, a cowboy hat, and polka-dot bandanas, particularly during his time in the WWF.
Dusty Rhodes’ entrance music varied throughout his career. In the WWF, he entered to the tune of “Common Man Boogie,” a song that encapsulated his “common man” persona.

Legacy

Dusty Rhodes left an indelible mark on professional wrestling. His feuds and matches are legendary, but perhaps his greatest impact was his promo skills and character work. His influence extended to his work as a booker and trainer, shaping the careers of many future stars. Dusty Rhodes passed away on June 11, 2015, but “The American Dream” lives on in the many wrestlers he influenced.