AEW's Dustin Rhodes Commemorates 15 Years Of Sobriety

Dustin Rhodes is motivated to keep stepping forward. In a 2013 interview with Wrestling Inc., the AEW performer admitted that he fell into a downward spiral after becoming addicted to drugs and alcohol. After years of struggling to stay afloat, Rhodes finally reached out to his father — WWE Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes — for help. The next day, WWE signed him up for a rehabilitation program. On May 19, 2023, Rhodes commemorated the 15-year anniversary of his sobriety. Even years after his father's passing, Rhodes does his best to stay in tune with a piece of advice "The American Dream" once gave him: "Keep stepping."

"Today is a day that I am most proud of," Rhodes tweeted. "Today is 15 yrs clean and sober from drugs and alcohol. It was a difficult journey for me, but when we work our programs diligently, magic starts to happen. I thank God for this second chance and new lease on life. I choose not to turn around and take a walk with the devil. I am clean from him, 1 day at a time."

Upon his exit from rehab, Rhodes felt a bit fearful about his future in the ring, but with his hard work, determination, and the support of his family, he pushed through it. 15 years later, Rhodes is still upholding a clean lifestyle and remains one of the top coaches for AEW. He does occasionally wrestle, too. Last year, Rhodes expressed his intention to officially hang up his boots in 2023, but recently, the 54-year-old suggested that it may not be time for him to retire just yet. 

If you or anyone you know needs help with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).