From figure skating to the boardroom: the multifaceted career of Brandi Rhodes
In short: Brandi Rhodes navigated a unique path through professional wrestling, evolving from a ring announcer into a high-level executive and performer. Her career spans major global promotions, breaking significant barriers for women of color in the industry while simultaneously building a presence in reality television, modeling, and entrepreneurial ventures.
Born Brandi Alexis Reed in Canton, Michigan, Rhodes initially pursued a career in broadcast journalism, graduating from the University of Michigan and later earning a master's degree from the University of Miami. Her early professional life included work as a news reporter and model before she entered the world of professional wrestling in 2011. Initially signed by WWE, she performed as a ring announcer under the names Eden Stiles and later Eden, eventually becoming a fixture on broadcasts like SmackDown.
Rhodes's influence expanded significantly beyond announcing. After departing WWE in 2016, she competed across various independent and international organizations, including stints in Japan and the United Kingdom. In 2019, she took on a pivotal role as the Chief Brand Officer and executive vice president of All Elite Wrestling, a position that made her the first African-American woman to hold such an executive title in a major North American wrestling promotion. During her tenure, she focused on inclusivity, notably securing a partnership with the nonprofit KultureCity to improve accessibility at large-scale events.
Her career is marked by several historic milestones. In 2015, she became the first African-American woman to serve as a ring announcer for a major American wrestling promotion at WrestleMania. By 2018, she achieved another first as a woman of color appearing in a match at Wrestle Kingdom. Beyond the ring, Rhodes has maintained a diverse portfolio, appearing in national advertising campaigns, launching a swimwear line, and participating in reality television series such as WAGS Atlanta and Rhodes to the Top. Since retiring from professional wrestling in 2022, she has made sporadic appearances, including a notable return to celebrate her husband Cody Rhodes's victory at WrestleMania XL in 2024.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Brandi Rhodes
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