AEW Free Agency: Dustin Rhodes reacts to retirement rumors with unequivocal message about his future

Hold your horses and the carriages they’re roped to, folks. There’s been a rumbling of a rumor regarding Dustin Rhodes as of late, and it’s beginning to gain traction, or rather it was until the wrestling legend recently took it out back and euthanized it. So as it pertains to a potential retirement in 2024, the answer isn’t just no.

It’s hell no.

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Dustin, son of Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes and big brother to WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, sounds as if he plans to lace up his boots many more times and for a long time to come — or at least for as long as this body allows it.

The artist formerly known as Gold Dust, currently known as The Natural, took the rumor head on this week.

“Wrong! Jeez guys, do better,” said Rhodes in reply on social media . “Yes my contract is up in September, and no, I am absolutely NOT DONE.”

The 55-year-old added that he feels fantastic, both mentally and physically.

“Having the best matches of my life and hopefully, God willing, I will get to retire on my own terms [and] respected with a full heart,” he said.

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There is the matter of his contract with AEW though, that is rumored to expire in a couple months.

“Hopefully, negotiations go well because I am damn worth the world,” Rhodes said. “The only things that matter to me are: taking care of my family first and foremost, and finishing up when I am ready, and how I envision my retirement. So hold off guys, This biz is my life and I love doing it for you, while still having fun and able.

“Keep stepping and thank you all for your continued love and support!”

Rhodes is a legend in the industry across multiple brands and promotions and deserves the right to leave when he’s ready to, and to not be forced out, especially while he’s still performing at a high level. His run in AEW has been more than solid, and should it come to an end contractually for whatever reason, that doesn’t mean he will come to an end with it.

After all, there are other promotions who would love to have him … back? Maybe the one his brother is now the face of??

It sure would make The Bloodline nervous seeing two Rhodes standing across from them.

Just saying.

Your move, Tony.