Ryback Fires Back At Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens After Comments About Former WWE Superstars “Robbing The Bank” On The Indies
Former WWE Superstar Ryback has issued a direct and heartfelt response following comments made by Kevin Owens and Cody Rhodes on a recent episode of Cody Rhodes’ podcast “What Do You Want To Talk About?”. The exchange, which included thinly veiled references to former WWE Superstars charging high rates on the independent scene, sparked swift reaction from Ryback, who believes he was clearly the subject of the remarks.
During the podcast appearance, Kevin Owens said:
“And I think, you know (censored), a good example, charged insane amounts of money, which he might have gotten a couple of times at first. And now I think it’s safe to say he has not been booked very much.”
Although the name was censored, Ryback took to social media to confirm that he felt the comment was unmistakably aimed at him.
“I was made aware & saw the clip of @FightOwensFight & @CodyRhodes, two guys I always liked & got along with. It’s clear they were referencing me, even with the name censored,” Ryback began.
Ryback provided context to his post-WWE independent run, noting that he was in high demand for the three years following his departure from the company, and that his appearance rate was established by then-manager and current WWE producer Pat Buck.
“My rate was set by my then-manager Pat Buck (a promoter himself), and every promoter I worked with made money and got my full effort—meet & greets, matches, fan time, all of it,” Ryback said.
The former Intercontinental Champion also took the opportunity to shed light on the serious health issues that led to his eventual hiatus from the ring.
“What’s often left out: I walked away from a multi-million dollar WWE contract. I wasn’t fired. I needed a 5-disc fusion and full right shoulder replacement at 34… I had nerve damage that risked paralysis if I continued,” he explained.
Ryback went on to reveal that beyond his medical condition, he chose to step away from bookings to care for his dog Sophie, who had suffered from multiple spinal injuries and was paralyzed twice.
“I refused to put her down just to keep traveling and making more money—I already had what I needed,” Ryback wrote. “Sophie turns 10 this November. And every second with her was worth it.”
In the years since, Ryback has focused on his health and business endeavors, notably his supplement brand Feed Me More Nutrition. According to his post, he has undergone 20 stem cell procedures and has regrown all five discs in his back—a milestone he credits with bringing him closer to a return to the ring.
Despite expressing disappointment in the comments from Owens and Rhodes, Ryback made it clear he harbors no ill will.
“So yes, I do feel the comment was a low blow—especially coming from two guys I respected and spoke well of. But I’m not bitter. I’ve made peace with @WWE and let go of the past.
“This isn’t a storyline. It’s real life. Survival. Growth. Perspective.
“I wish Kevin a strong recovery, and I send both him and Cody nothing but love, health & continued success. 🙏”
You can view Ryback’s full response below.
You can listen to the full episode of “What Do You Wanna Talk About?“ featuring Kevin Owens below.
Stay tuned to Bodyslam.net for continued coverage of this story and all things pro wrestling and mixed martial arts.
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