Dustin Rhodes

"Goldust" redirects here. Not to be confused withGold Dust.

Dustin Rhodes
Rhodes in 2019
Birth name	Dustin Patrick Runnels
Born	(1969-04-11)April 11, 1969 Dallas, Texas,U.S.
Spouse(s)	Terri Runnels ​ ​ (m.1993;div.1999)​ Milena Martelloni ​ ​ (m.2002;div.2003)​ Ta-rel Roche ​ ​ (m.2012)​
Children	1
Parent(s)	Dusty Rhodes(father) Sandra Runnels (mother)
Relatives	Cody Rhodes(half-brother),Brandi Rhodes(half-sister-in-law)
Website	rhodesdream.com
Professional wrestling career
Ring name(s)	The Artist formerly known as Goldust Black Reign Dustin Dustin Rhodes Dustin Runnels Dusty Rhodes Jr. Goldust Gold Dustin Se7en
Billed height	6 ft 6 in (198 cm)
Billed weight	232 lb (105 kg)
Billed from	Austin, Texas Hollywood, California(as Goldust)
Trained by	Dusty Rhodes Steve Keirn Harley Race
Debut	September 13, 1988

Dustin Patrick Runnels(born April 11, 1969) is an Americanprofessional wrestler.He is currently signed withAll Elite Wrestling(AEW), where he performs under thering nameDustin Rhodes, The Natural.He is best known for his multiple tenures inWWEfrom 1995 to 2018, under the ring nameGoldust.A second generation wrestler, he is the son ofWWE Hall of FamerDusty Rhodesand the half-brother ofCody Rhodes.He is also known for his appearances withWorld Championship Wrestling(WCW) andTotal Nonstop Action Wrestling(TNA).

Between WWF/WWE and WCW, Runnels has won 23 totalchampionships.In WCW, he was atwo-timeUnited States Heavyweight Champion,aone-timeSix-Man Tag Team Champion,and atwo-timeWorld Tag Team Champion.In WWF/WWE, he is athree-timeIntercontinental Champion,nine-timeHardcore Champion,one-timeWorld Tag Team Champion,andtwo-timeWWE Tag Team Champion.Runnels has also appeared in thefourth most Royal Rumble matches,at 13. Runnels headlined multiplepay-per-view events for the WWFandWCWduring the 1990s.

Professional wrestling career

Championship Wrestling from Florida (1988–1989)

Runnels made his professional wrestling debut on September 13, 1988, as "Dustin Rhodes", defeating Bob Cook in a match for the Tampa-basedChampionship Wrestling from Florida(CWF) promotion. The promotion was renamed the Professional Wrestling Federation in February 1989 after Runnels' father, Dusty Rhodes, began wrestling there. Runnels captured theNWA Florida Heavyweight ChampionshipfromAl Perezon May 23, 1989, holding it for a month.

World Championship Wrestling (1988–1989)

In December 1988, Runnels debuted inWorld Championship Wrestling.Rhodes teamed withKendall Windhamin an undercard tag team called The Texas Broncos that saw success against The Cruel Connection and The Commandos. Their first defeat came againstThe Original Midnight Expressat a house show on December 10, 1988, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Rhodes's first singles match came two days later at a television taping in Atlanta, Georgia when he defeated Trent Knight. Rhodes' initial WCW run lasted only a few months, as he exited the company two months after his father. After suffering a loss toButch Reedduring a dark match for anNWA Main Eventtaping in The Omni on February 12, 1989, Rhodes closed out his initial WCW run with a win over Trent Knight in Walterboro, South Carolina on February 24.

Japan and Memphis (1989–1990)

In March 1989, Runnels toured Japan forAll Japan Pro Wrestling(AJPW) in its annualChampion Carnival,under the name Dusty Rhodes Jr. He returned to AJPW for a ten and a twenty-day tour in the spring and summer of 1990. Runnels began wrestling in theUnited States Wrestling Association(USWA) in July 1989. There he feuded mainly withTony Anthonyfor Anthony'sCWA Heavyweight Championshipbut never won the belt. He left the USWA in the spring of 1990.

World Wrestling Federation (1990–1991)

Runnels debuted as a fan favorite in theWorld Wrestling Federation(WWF) in late 1990, wrestling as Dustin Rhodes. His first match in the WWF (now WWE) was againstPaul DiamondonWWF on MSG Networkon September 21, 1990.In November 1990, Rhodes defeatedTed DiBiasein a televised ten-minute challenge match. On January 19, 1991, at theRoyal Rumble,Rhodes and his fatherDustylost to Ted DiBiase andVirgilin a tag team bout, and both left immediately after.

Return to WCW (1991–1995)

Teaming with Barry Windham (1991–1992)

In February 1991, Runnels joinedWorld Championship Wrestling(WCW), wrestling as "The Natural" Dustin Rhodes. He feuded withLarry Zbyszkountil April 1991, when he refused to joinAlexandra York'sYork Foundation,thus beginning a feud with Foundation memberTerrence Taylor.

In late 1991, Rhodes formed a tag-team withBarry Windhamand began pursuing WCW Tag Team champions The Enforcers (Arn Andersonand Zbyszko). The pair received a title shot atClash of the Champions XVII,but Windham was injured prior to the event. A returningRicky Steamboatwas chosen to partner Rhodes, and the makeshift duo won theWCW World Tag Team Championship.They lost the belts on January 16, 1992, to Arn Anderson and fellowDangerous AlliancememberBobby Eaton.

On a taped edition ofWCW Saturday Nighton September 2, 1992, Rhodes teamed with Windham to defeatSteve WilliamsandTerry Gordyfor the unifiedWCW World Tag Team ChampionshipandNWA World Tag Team Championship(their NWA title reign is not recognized by NWA); the match would air on October 3. They held the belts for about two months before losing them to Steamboat andShane Douglasin a memorable match on the November 18 edition ofClash of the Champions XXI.Windham turned on Rhodes after the match when Rhodes refused to pin Steamboat after an accidental low blow.

United States Heavyweight Champion (1993–1995)

In January 1993, Rhodes reached the final of a tournament to decide the number one contender for theWCW United States Heavyweight Championship.The championRick Rudewas stripped of his title that same month, meaning the tournament final would be for the title. Rhodes faced his old partner Ricky Steamboat to win his first United States Heavyweight title. He successfully defended the title the following month atSuperBrawl IIIagainstMaxx Payne.Rude returned that April and quickly challenged Rhodes. Their first encounter resulted in a controversial double pin, with Rude initially being awarded the title. The championship was held up two weeks later. After a 30-minute Iron Man Match ended in a 1–1 draw atBeach Blaston July 18, a best-of-three series was set between the two onSaturday Night;Rhodes lost the first match on August 28, but defeated Rude twice on September 4 and 11 to claim his second United States Heavyweight Championship.

AtFall Brawl,Rhodes teamed withSting,Davey Boy SmithandThe Shockmasterto defeatBig Van Vader,Sid Vicious andHarlem Heatin aWarGames match.Rhodes lost the title toSteve Austinin aTwo out of three falls matchatStarrcade,after losing both falls.

In March 1994, Rhodes started feuding withBunkhouse BuckandCol. Robert Parker.After Parker introducedArn AndersonandTerry Funkas adversaries for Runnels, Runnels responded by bringing his father, a former enemy of Funk, back into the ring to team with him again against Parker's Stud Stable. In December 1994, Parker introduced another opponent for Rhodes,The Blacktop Bully.At theUncensoredpay-per-view on March 19, 1995, Rhodes lost to The Blacktop Bully in the only King of the Road match in the company's history. The match, which was filmed several days earlier, resulted in both Rhodes and The Blacktop Bully being fired from the company, as the two hadbladedduring the match after being instructed to by one another, which was against corporate policy at the time in WCW.

Return to WWF (1995–1999)

Debut of Goldust (1995–1997)

Goldust in 1995

In August 1995, Runnels returned to the WWF, wrestling as a then-villainGoldust, nicknamed "the Bizarre One" because of his somewhat spooky, mysterious, bashful presentation yetsexual suggestivenessturned aggressions. In communications, Goldust frequently took to comical flirtation while maintaining a bashfullydeadpanandmonotonedelivery and presence. Using in-ring psychology to his advantage, Goldust often performed lewd and flirtatiousmind gamesto anger, confuse, and distract his opponents. He engaged in such tactics as groping and excessive physical affection towards his opponent in the midst of delivering his onslaught. To that end, one of Goldust's trademarks was his exaggerated, suggestively breathy inhalation whilst caressing his own body; this display ended in him exhaling through a startlingly vicious biting sound directed at his adversaries (also said between his catchphrase wordsYou will never forget the name ofandGoldust). The character was portrayed as adrag queenobsessed with films and everything gold, which is a parody of theOscars statuette.Adding to this aspect of the gimmick, Goldust often quoted or made references to classicHollywood filmsduring his promos. Under the gimmick, Runnels wore a predominately gold jumpsuit (with tads of other colors, such as white and black); black and gold face paint; and during entrances and promos, a glittery gold robe and a platinum blonde wig over his short platinum blonde hair.

Years later, Runnels stated thatVince McMahoncalled him and offered him the gimmick and mentioned "androgynous"several times; Runnels, wanting a separate identity from his father at the time, promptly accepted without knowing what the word" androgynous "meant, then promptly looked it up in the dictionary after getting off the phone with McMahon and shocked to see what it meant said to himself" What did I get myself in to? "Runnels himself admitted that the first few months of the gimmick were uncomfortable for him as it didn't match his personality at all, but decided to work with what was given to him and "run with it".

He would defeatBob HollyatIn Your House 3in a dark match.

Goldust won his debut match on October 22, 1995, againstMarty Jannettyat theIn Your House 4pay-per-view. He defeated the departingBam Bam Bigelowin Bigelow's last WWF match at theSurvivor Series.He then feuded withRazor Ramon,whom he stalked and sent messages to throughout late 1995. The feud culminated at theRoyal Rumbleon January 21, 1996, where Goldust defeated Ramon for theIntercontinental Championshipdue to interference from the1–2–3 Kid.This match also marked the debut of Goldust'svalet,Marlena, portrayed by his then wifeTerri.With her seductive, coolly unconcerned, mysterious character and fully gold-colored wear, Marlena complemented Goldust. Her gimmick consisted of sitting at ringside in a director's chair during Goldust's matches, advising him while smoking large brown cigars. A rematch between Goldust and Ramon atWrestleMania XIIwas canceled after Ramon was suspended, with Goldust instead fightingRoddy Piperin aHollywood Backlot Brawl.At the end of the fight, Piper stripped Goldust of his ring attire to reveal him wearing women'slingerie;Runnels revealed in 2018 that it was his idea just three days before WrestleMania XII to wear aslipandthongunderneath his ring attire and to have Piper strip him down, getting the approval from McMahon.

Goldust defended his Intercontinental Championship in bouts againstSavio VegaandThe Ultimate Warriorbefore losing the title toAhmed JohnsonatKing of the Ringon June 23, 1996. In Summer 1996, Goldust briefly gained control overMankindand feuded withThe Undertaker.His attention soon turned toMarc Meroand his then wifeSable.Goldust and Marlena attempted to get Sable to join their team, but Mero won the feud and kept her by his side. He also had aladder matchwithShawn Michaelsat internet pay-per-view (iPPV)Xperiencefor theWWF Championshipbut lost the match.

In December 1996, Goldust entered a feud withHunter Hearst Helmsley,when Helmsley began flirting with Marlena. This feud lead to the debut ofChynaas Helmsley's new bodyguard and marked the first time Goldust became afan favorite.

Various gimmicks (1997–1999)

In May 1997, Goldust revealed his identity as Dustin Runnels, the son of Dusty Rhodes. In the summer and fall of that year, he joined other wrestlers in their conflict withThe Hart Foundation,feuding in particular withBrian Pillman.Goldust defeated Pillman atSummerSlamin which Pillman was forced to wear a dress for a month, then Pillman challenged Goldust again to a match atGround Zero: In Your House,Goldust agreed that if he lost, he would lose Marlena to Pillman for 30 days, Goldust lost the match to Pillman and was forced to lose Marlena, had Goldust won, Pillman would leave the WWF. Just before the thirty days were up, Pillman died of heart disease hours before theBadd Bloodevent on October 5, 1997. In November 1997, Goldust split with Marlena and refused to cooperate with hisSurvivor Seriesteammates, which once again turned him into a heel. This led to a feud withVaderin December 1997 and the appearance of The Artist Formerly Known As Goldust (a reference toPrince), managed byLuna Vachon.He began mimicking celebrities and fellow wrestlers with characters such as "Chynadust","Dust Lovedust","Dustydust","Hunterdust","Flashdust","Marilyn Mansondust","Sabledust",and"Vaderdust"in early 1998.Around this time, he made alegitimatepush to management to getbreast implantsas part of the gimmick before being talked out of it by McMahon.

By June 1998, Goldust feuded withVal Venis,who had been involved with Terri during their separation. Now going by his real name, Runnels began speaking out (mostly in taped vignettes) on the increasingly edgy WWF product and promoting alternatives to watching the show such as reading the Bible. These vignettes were sponsored by the fictional group, "Evangelists Against Television, Movies and Entertainment", the acronym for which reads "EATME" – a thinly veiled joke on the WWF's part.Runnels declared himself aborn again Christian,alluding to "his" return, and walking through the crowd with signs reading "he's coming back!". While the return ofChristwas clearly implied, Runnels was in fact referencing the return of the Goldust gimmick, which he reprised in October 1998 against Val Venis and then in November 1998, he began feuding withJeff Jarrettover the attention of his manager,Debra.

In early 1999, Goldust feuded withAl Snow,upon stealing the mannequin Head, Snow's mascot, andThe Blue Meanie,who had recently renamed himself "Bluedust" and adopted many of Goldust's mannerisms. After Goldust defeated Meanie atSt. Valentine's Day Massacre,Meanie became Goldust's apprentice. AfterRyan Shamrockbecame Goldust's valet, Meanie and Shamrock began vying for Goldust's attention. In the same time period, Goldust won the Intercontinental Championship again fromRoad Doggand then lost it toThe Godfathertwo weeks later. He would team up with The Blue Meanie having a few matches against TheHardy Boyzuntil Goldust left the company in June 1999.

Second return to WCW (1999–2001)

Runnels returned to World Championship Wrestling on the November 8, 1999, edition ofWCW Monday Nitro,filming several vignettes for a fantastical, face-painted character named Seven. These vignettes contained ominous footage of Rhodes in full makeup standing outside a child's bedroom window. The gimmick was reported to have been based on "The Strangers" from the 1998film noirDark City.The character was dropped after Turner Standards and Practices expressed concern that this gimmick could be misinterpreted as achild abductor.Upon returning to WCW television, Rhodes removed his costume and delivered aworked shootin which he mocked unrealistic gimmicks as well as his time as Goldust in the WWF. After turning heel upon his return, Runnels began wrestling as "The American Nightmare" Dustin Rhodes, with his nickname a reference to his father's nickname, "The American Dream". "The American Nightmare" nickname would later be used by Runnels' half brother,Cody Rhodes.

Rhodes feuded with Jeff Jarrett before feuding withTerry Funk.He was (kayfabe) fired byVince RussoatSpring Stampedein April 2000 for failing to prevent Terry Funk from winning the vacantHardcore Championship,againstNorman Smiley.

Runnels returned to WCW television in January 2001, assisting his father in his feud with Jarrett and, eventually,Ric Flair.He wrestled on the final WCW pay-per-view,Greedon March 18, 2001. In March 2001, WCW was purchased by the World Wrestling Federation, but the WWF did not acquire Runnels' contract.

Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling (2001–2002)

Rhodes signing autographs, without his face paint

In July 2001, Runnels, while still under contract to AOL Time Warner, began wrestling for his father's newly createdTurnbuckle Championship Wrestlingpromotion, winning the promotion's Heavyweight Championship.

He would team up with his father. Competing as Dustin Rhodes, he captured the TCW Heavyweight Championship fromScotty Riggson January 26, but vacated the title immediately afterwards after it was confirmed that he would be returning to WWF. Following his return to the WWF at the 2002 Royal Rumble, he made two more appearances with TCW, the first in a six-man tag team match with his father Dusty and Ron Studd against Riggs, Fake Goldust, and Jason Sugarmann, and the second in a singles victory overSteve Corino.

Second return to WWF/WWE (2001–2003)

Hardcore Champion (2001–2002)

In December 2001, Runnels accepted a buyout from hisAOL Time Warnercontract and was re-signed by the World Wrestling Federation to a two-year deal. Promos immediately began airing on WWF television advertising the return of Goldust. On January 20, 2002, he officially returned by taking part in theRoyal Rumble,reprising his Goldust character. Shortly after returning, promos began airing for a few weeks of Goldust saying that there was a certain wrestler whose "star was shining brighter" than he would like. He eventually revealed the person he was talking about wasRob Van Damby attacking him onRaw,turning heel in the process. Van Dam defeated him in a singles match atNo Way Out.After the loss, he moved on to the hardcore division, where he won theHardcore Championshiponnine occasions.

Teaming with Booker T (2002–2003)

Goldust in 2002

When the World Wrestling Federation was renamed World Wrestling Entertainment and the roster was divided into twobrands,RawandSmackDown!,Goldust was assigned to the Raw brand, where he formed a tag team withBooker T.The duo engaged in numerous comedic vignettes, on one occasion hosting a segment titledBooker T and Goldust at the Moviesand delivering reviews ofThe Scorpion King,a film starringThe Rock.In May 2002, Booker joinedthe New World Order (nWo),with Goldust's request to join the faction rejected. In June 2002, Booker was ejected from the nWo byShawn Michaels,sparking a feud between the nWo and Booker and Goldust. Booker and Goldust went on to compete in the tag team division, winning theWorld Tag Team ChampionshipatArmageddonbefore being forced to split up on the February 3, 2003, episode ofRawby Raw General ManagerEric Bischofffor failing to win back the World Tag Team Championship.

Following the dissolution of the tag team, Goldust contracted astutterandTourette's-like symptoms, upon receiving a shock from a Round Tube during an attack at the hands ofBatistaandRandy Orton.Goldust appeared in character onThe Howard Stern Showin March 2003.He appeared sporadically thereafter, forming a tag team withLance Stormin August 2003. In fall 2003, Booker T began receiving mysterious, haunting messages for a few weeks from somebody. The messages only said "I remember". It was rumored that the messages would be from Goldust, which would have begun a feud between the two. Suddenly, the angle was never mentioned again on television and the company announced on their website that they would not be renewing Rhodes' contract. WWE allowed his contract to expire in December 2003.

Independent circuit (2003–2005)

Following his release from WWE in December 2003, Runnels returned to the independent circuit while concurrently competing in his first stint with TNA. He first appeared for the Japanese promotion WORLD-1, as Dusty Rhodes Jr., working three dates in early April, all singles matches and all victories. In July, Runnels returned to the United States and appeared forFull Impact Pro,tag teaming withBarry Windhamand defeating the Cuban Assassin and Ryze.

Runnels did not appear on the independent circuit for the rest of 2004 and much of 2005, until the firstWrestleReunion,teaming with his father andMike GrahamagainstAbdullah the Butcher,Kevin Sullivan,andCM Punk.After his departure from TNA, he made a few appearances with Dusty for CCW againstPhi Delta Slam.Runnels also competed on the Tribute toStarrcadeshow on November 19 in a match againstTerry Funk,which ended in a No-Contest.

Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (2004–2005)

On February 4, 2004, he debuted inTotal Nonstop Action Wrestling(TNA) as "The Lone Star" Dustin Rhodes, unsuccessfully challengingJeff Jarrettfor theNWA World Heavyweight Championship.On February 18, Runnels andEl LeondefeatedKevin NorthcuttandLegendin a tag team bout. In December 2004, he returned to TNA, once again wrestling as Dustin Rhodes. on the January 7, 2005, episode of Impact, Rhodes andJeff Hardydefeated Kash andDallas.On the January 14 episode of Impact, Rhodes defeated Chris Candido. AtFinal Resolution,Rhodes defeatedKid Kash.on the February 11 episode of Impact Wrestling, Rhodes andAmerica's Most Wanteddefeated Kid Kash, Dallas and Raven in a six-man tag team match. atAgainst All Odds,Rhodes lost to Raven but got payback atDestination Xwhen he defeated Raven in a bullrope match. He then entered a feud withBobby Roodeand atLockdown,Rhodes defeated Roode in a 2 out of 3 falls Prince of Darkness cage match. His TNA contract expired in April 2005 and he chose not to renew it, leaving TNA.

Third return to WWE (2005–2006)

Runnels returned to World Wrestling Entertainment on October 31, 2005, as a heel and back under the Goldust attire, asJonathan Coachmanenlisted him and Vader to attack Batista.Goldust and Vader unsuccessfully interfered in a Street Fight between Batista and Coachman on behalf of Coachman atTaboo Tuesday.Following the event, Goldust once again disappeared from television. In January 2006, Goldust took part in theRoyal Rumble matchand was assigned once again to theRawbrand until he was released from his WWE contract on June 14, 2006, forno-showingan appearance.Runnels made a short appearance atWrestleMania 22to give Booker T advice on his match againstThe Boogeymanwhere he insinuated that the only way he could beat The Boogeyman was to put worms in his anus.

Independent circuit (2006–2007)

After returning to his fourth stint with WWE, Runnels once again disappeared from the indies, but made a special appearance withJerry Lawler's Memphis Wrestling on March 3, 2006, as Goldust, in a match against Lawler, which he lost after Lawler hit him with a steel chain.

Runnels was released from his fourth stint with WWE on June 14. Two weeks and six days later, on July 1, he returned to WORLD-1, defeatingTully Blanchardin the main event. On October 14, he appeared with the UK promotionOne Pro Wrestling,under the name Gold Dustin (the name he would use in AJPW) with a victory overCurry Man.

While competing for AJPW in 2007, Runnels returned to CCW to feud with Phi Delta Slam, mainly in tag team matches with a variety of partners, includingKip James.In mid-2007, he made several appearances withHermie Sadler's UWF promotion to hype his return to TNA, making his debut on March 2 with a victory over Steve Corino. He appeared with UWF throughout his second tenure with TNA, facing the likes ofScott Steiner,Sabu,David Flair,Andrew Martin,andD'Lo Brown.His tenure in UWF also saw him compete in the often-considered "cross-promotional" War Games match against Team JBL (managed byJohn Bradshaw Layfield,who was signed to WWE as a commentator at the time) consisting of Steve Corino, C.W. Anderson, the Latin American Xchange, and Elix Skipper. Runnels was a member ofSgt. Slaughter's Team Slaughter, along with the Steiner Brothers and the Mack Brothers. Team Slaughter won the bout. Runnels' final appearance with UWF was on September 22, 2007, where he andAbysswere on the losing end of a tag team bout against D'Lo Brown and a local football coach.

Return to Japan (2007)

On January 28, 2007, it was announced that Rhodes would appear at the February 17, 2007, All Japan Pro Wrestling show in theRyōgoku Kokugikanin Tokyo. On February 15, Rhodes, identified as Gold Dustin, appeared at ringside during a match involvingThe Great Muta,resulting in a brawl between Rhodes and The Great Muta.On February 17, Rhodes andJinsei Shinzakiwere defeated by The Great Muta andYoshihiro Tajiriin a tag team bout.

Return to TNA (2007–2008)

On July 15, 2007, Rhodes returned to Total Nonstop Action Wrestling atVictory Roadand aligned himself withChristian Cageby helping him defeat "Wildcat"Chris Harris.In an interview onTNA Impact!conducted byMike Tenay,Rhodes discussed accusations of having a split personality and stated that he was going to embrace it and let it out. TNA presented the interview as being an emotional breakdown on the part of Rhodes. On August 12 atHard Justice,Rhodes debuted his new ring name, Black Reign, and a "new, darker and bizarre look". At Hard Justice, Harris defeated Black Reign via disqualification when Black Reign attacked several referees.The next week, the gimmick was explored even further, saying that Rhodes constantly switched between Rhodes and Black Reign.He was featured atBound for Gloryin aMonster's Ball matchagainstRhino,Abyss,andRaven,which he lost.Black Reign challenged Abyss to a "Shop of Horrors" match atGenesisand lost. At Genesis, Black Reign's new partner,Rellik(which is "Killer" spelled backwards), made his debut after attacking Abyss.AtTurning Point,Abyss and Raven defeated Black Reign and Rellik in aMatch of 10,000 Tacks.Originally, this match was signed to be Abyss and Rhino versus Rellik and Black Reign but, due to an injury, Rhino was replaced by Raven for this match.

OnImpact!,he helped Rellik beat upKaz.Later the same night, he appeared for an interview, as Dustin Rhodes, without his Black Reign make-up and stated that his "alter ego" has been scaring him since when he was a little kid. His interview was interrupted by the furious Kaz.This led to a match between the two atFinal Resolutionwhere Kaz won. Reign and his partner Rellik then began feuding withEric Youngand his new superhero gimmick Super Eric.AtDestination X,Black Reign and Rellik faced Eric Young and Kaz in a losing effort. AtLockdown,Black Reign and Rellik competed in a Six Team Cuffed in the Cage match which was won by Kaz and Super Eric. After three months of not showing up on television, Black Reign's profile was removed from the TNA roster page and he was released from his TNA contract.

Independent circuit (2008)

Following his release from TNA in early 2008, Runnels briefly returned to Coastal Championship Wrestling to face the members of Phi Delta Slam (Bruno SassiandBig Tilly) before beginning his fifth stint in WWE in October 2008.

Fourth return to WWE (2008–2012)

Various appearances (2008–2009)

Goldust in 2009

On October 26, 2008, Runnels returned to the WWE atCyber Sundayunder his Goldust persona as part of the three choices (the other two beingRoddy PiperandThe Honky Tonk Man) that the fans could choose to faceSantino Marellafor theIntercontinental Championship.After Honky Tonk Man was chosen and won via disqualification, Goldust and Piper entered the ring and the three candidates fought Marella, afterwards celebrating together in the ring.The following night onRaw,Goldust appeared again with Piper and the Honky Tonk Man as guest commentators for Marella's match withCharlie Haas.The match ended when Goldust and Piper distracted Marella so that Honky Tonk Man could smash his guitar over Marella's head.

Goldust appeared on the celebration of the 800th episode ofRawon November 3, 2008, dancing alongside his father Dusty Rhodes,Lilian Garciaand several other wrestlers.A noticeably slimmer and quicker Goldust finally made a full-time return on theRawroster once again on the November 24, 2008, episode ofRaw,where he defeatedSantino Marella.Goldust participated in the2009 Royal Rumblematch and stared down his real-life half-brother,Cody Rhodes,but was eliminated by him later.Goldust participated atWrestleMania XXVas a lumberjack during the tag team championship unification match betweenThe ColónsandJohn Morrison and the Miz.

On the May 25 episode ofRaw,Goldust teamed up withHornswogglein a tag team match, where they defeatedFestusandThe Brian Kendrick.Goldust then teamed with Hornswoggle on multiple occasions, mainly feuding with Kendrick, where they had many matches both onWWE SuperstarsandRaw.

Brand switches and NXT (2009–2010)

The team of Goldust and Hornswoggle came to an end on June 29, 2009, when Goldust was traded to theECWbrand via a 15-man trade.His debut match for the brand came on the July 14 episode ofECW,in which he lost toZack Ryder.In the upcoming weeks, he started a feud withSheamusleading to his first televised singles win in several months onSuperstarsagainst Sheamus pinning him using aninside cradle.After several weeks offeuding,Sheamus defeated Goldust in a "No Disqualification" match on the September 1 episode ofECW on Syfyto end the feud.

Following this loss, he garnered his first number one contender's match for theECW Championshipon the September 15, 2009, episode ofECW on Syfyin a 10-Man Battle Royal where he was the seventh participant eliminated and Zack Ryder earning the title shot in the end.The September 29, 2009, episode ofECW on Syfysaw Goldust win his first match on ECW in an eight-man tag team match whereYoshi TatsupinnedWilliam Regalto score the win for their team.On the November 10 episode ofECW on Syfy,Goldust won his first televised singles match on the ECW brand by pinningPaul Burchill.Goldust participated in an "ECW Homecoming" Match on the December 22 episode ofECW on Syfyto determine who got an opportunity to challenge Christian for the ECW Championship, but was defeated byVance Archer.

In early January, he teamed with Yoshi Tatsuand began a feud with ECW newcomersTrent BarretaandCaylen Croft.The duos exchanged victories in singles and tag team competitionuntil the feud came to an end on the February 9 episode ofECW,when Goldust and Tatsu defeated Barreta and Croft in a match to determine the number one contenders to theUnified WWE Tag Team Championship.However, Goldust and Tatsu failed in capturing the titles on the final episode ofECW on Syfy.The team of Goldust and Yoshi Tatsu came to an end when Tatsu signed with theRawbrand afterECW on SyFywas canceled.

On March 3, 2010, Goldust joined theSmackDownbrand,He made his debut for the brand on the March 4 episode ofSuperstarsin a losing effort againstChris Jericho.The following week onSuperstars,he won his first match as a SmackDown star after defeatingMike Knoxusing his finishing move, the Final Cut,as well as beatingWilliam Regalalso using the Final Cut soon afterwards. He appeared in a dark 26-man battle royal match atWrestleMania XXVI,but failed to win, although his past allyYoshi Tatsuwon.

As part of the2010 WWE Supplemental Draft,Goldust was drafted back to the Raw brand.On the May 3 episode ofRaw,Goldust made his re-debut for the brand in a backstage segment with the guest host for that week,Wayne Brady.In late September, a mysterious stalker was sending messages toMaryseandTed DiBiase Jr.,but it was unsure who they were aimed at. On the October 4 episode ofRaw,Goldust was revealed as the mystery stalker, but the messages were not directed to Maryse, but at DiBiase'sMillion Dollar Championship,which he then took.

Goldust at a WWE live event in 2010

During the season 2 finale ofNXTon August 31, 2010, it was announced that Goldust would take part in NXT's third season as a Pro withAksanaas his Rookie.On the October 12 episode ofNXTGoldust proposed to Aksana, who was facing deportation from the country, so she could stay in America.On the October 18 episode ofRaw,DiBiase tried to reclaim his Million Dollar Championship after Goldust's match with Zack Ryder by attacking him, but he was unsuccessful in retrieving his belt.AtBragging Rights,DiBiase defeated Goldust, but Goldust still left with the title after Aksana distracted DiBiase long enough for Goldust to hit his finisher on him.Goldust and Aksana were married on the November 2 episode ofNXTwith father Dusty Rhodes and real-life half-brother "Dashing" Cody Rhodes in attendance. Immediately afterwards Aksana slapped Goldust and walked out on him.The following Monday onRawAksana stole the Million Dollar Championship belt during Goldust's match with Ted DiBiase.The following week onRawGoldust managed to steal the Million Dollar Championship belt back from Aksana and then returned it toTed DiBiase Sr.,and onNXThe asked Aksana for a divorce after she was eliminated.

Backstage producer and departure (2011–2012)

On December 7, 2010, it was reported that Runnels had suffered a shoulder injury.He underwent surgery to repair the injury on December 10 and, as a result, was expected to be out of action for five to six months. On the April 11, 2011, episode of Raw, he was seen (without makeup) huggingEdgeafter his retirement speech. On July 11, Runnels began working backstage as a producer. On the November 29 episode of theSmackdown Live Holiday SpecialGoldust made his surprise return on a backstage segment with his father Dusty Rhodes. On the December 12 episode of theWWE Slammy Awardshe appeared to announce the Slammy for A-Lister of The Year withVickie Guerrero.On the December 30, 2011, episode of SmackDown Rhodes appeared in his suit attire and no make up, to defend Booker T and confront his half brother, Cody Rhodes. Rhodes made an appearance on the April 9, 2012, edition ofRawwhere he, along with numerous other WWE officials and superstars, were attempting to break up a brawl betweenBrock LesnarandJohn Cena.On May 6, 2012, WWE acknowledged Goldust's departure from the company.

Return to the independent circuit (2012–2013)

Runnels returned to professional wrestling on April 11, 2012, inPort St. Lucie, Florida,for Championship Wrestling Entertainment's event "WrestleFest", defeating JD Maverick in the main event. He then wrestled on July 14, 2012, inHollywood, Florida,for the NWA Ring Warriors (part ofNWA territories) promotion as Goldust,losing toVordell Walkervia disqualification when"Iceman" Buck Qinterfered in the match.Runnels appeared for the Dreamwave Wrestling on September 15 inLaSalle, Illinois.Runnels continued to use the Goldust name outside WWE. Runnels appeared on Mr. Chainsaw Pro Wrestling'sBattle Ground 5event on May 18, 2013, inKalkaska, Michigan,and billed as Dustin "Goldust" Rhodes.

Fifth return to WWE (2013–2019)

Teaming with Cody Rhodes (2013–2015)

Main article:Cody Rhodes and Goldust

Runnels returned to WWE as Goldust at theRoyal Rumbleon January 27, 2013, as the eighth participant in the Rumble match. He was eliminated by his half-brother, Cody Rhodes,teasing a possible feud. but Goldust later confirmed that his return was a one night only deal.

In 2013, Goldust returned to WWE, teaming with his half-brotherCody.

When Cody was (kayfabe) fired for speaking out against chief operating officerTriple Hand then losing to theWWE ChampionRandy Orton, Goldust returned on the September 9Rawto face Orton in a match to get his half-brother Cody Rhodes rehired, but was defeated.Following this, Goldust's father Dusty Rhodes returned to WWE to ask Stephanie McMahon for Cody to be rehired. After much dialogue in whichThe ShieldandBig Showinterrupted, Stephanie McMahon gave Dusty two choices, which were to get knocked out by an unwilling Big Show or get "mauled by The Shield." Big Show then knocked Dusty out and stayed with Dusty while theparamedicsarrived.In return, the Rhodes brothers gatecrashedRawby attacking the Shield.AtBattleground,Cody and Goldust won their jobs back when they defeated the WWE Tag Team Champions,Seth RollinsandRoman Reignsin a non-title match.The Rhodes brothers heaped more misery on the Shield by winning a no disqualification match on the October 14Raw(with the help of Big Show) to capture the tag titles, marking Goldust's first title in WWE in nearly 11 years.By this point, many longtime Goldust mannerisms such as wearing a robe and platinum blonde wig to the ring were dropped in exchange for wearing a jacket similar to his brother; additionally, Goldust would now speak with his normalTexanvoice. AtHell in a Cell,the Rhodes brothers' first successful title defense came with winning a triple threat match againstthe Usosand Rollins and Reigns.AtSurvivor Series,Goldust alongside his half-brother Cody, participated in the traditional Survivor Series Tag Team match where Goldust survived till the final two alongsideRey Mysterio.However, he got eliminated by Roman Reigns and his team lost. AtTLC: Tables Ladders and Chairs,the Rhodes Brothers retained the title in a fatal-4-way elimination match againstCurtis AxelandRyback,The Real Americans and Big Show and Rey Mysterio, but they lost the title toNew Age Outlaws(Road DoggandBilly Gunn) at theRoyal Rumble.Later in theRoyal Rumble match,he would accidentally eliminate Cody Rhodes. After continuing to team together for months, Goldust and Cody broke up in June, after mounting losses. Cody prompted Goldust to find a new partner to replace him.

Goldust in 2015

On the June 16 episode ofRaw,Cody debuted a new character,Stardust,wearing face paint and a bodysuit and adopting mannerisms similar to those of Goldust. AtMoney in the Bank,Goldust and Stardust defeated RybAxel (Curtis Axel and Ryback).Goldust and Stardust appeared in backstage segments, speaking of a "Cosmic Key". On the August 25 episode ofRaw,Goldust and Stardust defeated The Usos in a title match via count-out, but, as a result, they did not win the title. The duo would then attack the Usos out of frustration, turning heel in the process. They confirmed their heel turn after attackingEl Toritothe following night onMain Event,having defeatedLos Matadoresin their tag team match. AtNight of Championsthey won the WWE Tag Team Championships once again by beating The Usos. AtHell in a Cellthey retained their title by beating The Usos. AtSurvivor Seriesthey lost the title toThe MizandDamien Mizdow.They had a rematch for the tag team titles the following night on Raw, but were unsuccessful.

On the February 2, 2015, episode ofRaw,after being defeated byThe Ascension,Stardust would start to show his frustrations toward Goldust. On the February 16 episode ofRaw,following a loss toThe New DaymembersKofi KingstonandXavier Woods,Stardust would turn on Goldust by using his old finisher, Cross Rhodes on him, marking the end of Gold and Stardust, turning Goldust face in the process. This led to a match atFastlane,where Goldust defeated Stardust. Later that night, while speaking to their father, Dusty Rhodes, Goldust would be attacked by Stardust again. AtWrestleMania 31,Goldust participated in the 2nd annualAndré the GiantMemorial Battle Royal, where he was eliminated by Ryback. On the March 30, 2015, episode ofRaw,Goldust lost via submission to Rusev.

In May, Goldust announced that he would undergo surgery to address a shoulder injury and that he would be out of action for 2–4 months. Goldust made an appearance atNXT TakeOver: Respectwithout any facepaint to congratulateFinn BálorandSamoa Joeafter they won theDusty Rhodes Tag Team Classictournament.

Goldust returned from injury atSurvivor Series,competing in a5-on-5 traditional Survivor Series elimination tag team matchduring the pre-show, teaming with TheDudley Boyz,NevilleandTitus O'Neil,where they defeated the team of Stardust, The Ascension, The Miz andBo Dallas.Goldust would continue feuding with his brother, Stardust, on Raw and SmackDown during the months of November and December. On the December 17 episode ofSmackDown,Goldust would costTyler Breezehis match against O'Neil after distracting Breeze by appearing at ringside. On the December 31 episode ofSmackDown,Goldust would be defeated by Breeze.

The Golden Truth (2016–2017)

The Golden Truth in 2016

In early 2016, during various episodes ofRawandSmackDown,Goldust approachedR-Truthand proposed they form a tag team to no avail.AtFastlane,Goldust inadvertently cost R-Truth his match againstCurtis Axel.Following Fastlane, R-Truth began to apologize and attempt to form a tag team with Goldust, with Goldust rejecting.On the March 21 episode ofRaw,Goldust came to R-Truth's aid after Truth was defeated byBubba Ray Dudley.AtWrestleMania 32,Goldust took part in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal in a losing effort. On the April 11 episode ofRaw,Shane McMahonannounced a number one contenders tournament for the WWE Tag Team Championship, which included Goldust and Truth teaming together.On the April 14 episode ofSmackDown,Goldust would tell R-Truth before their match they would not team together, with Goldust instead teaming withFandango,where they were defeated by TheVaudevillainsin the first round.On the April 22 episode of Smackdown, Goldust was the special referee for the match of R-Truth and Fandango, which R-Truth won. On the May 2 episode ofRaw,Goldust faced off against R-Truth's new partner,Tyler Breeze,in a losing effort following a distraction from R-Truth. On the May 12 episode ofSmackDown,the two teams would face each other, with Goldust and Truth refusing to fight each other, resulting in Fandango and Breeze forming an alliance and attacking Goldust and R-Truth, with Fandango subsequently allowing Breeze to pin Goldust.On the May 16 episode ofRaw,Goldust and Truth began teaming together, where they were defeated by the newly dubbed Breezango (Fandango and Breeze).The week after onSmackDown,Golden Truth started a losing streak, losing to the likes of Breezango and The Dudley Boyz.Golden Truth earned their first victory on theMoney in the Bankpre-show after defeating Breezango.

In the2016 WWE Draft,Goldust, along with R-Truth, was drafted toRaw.The Golden Truth later entered into a feud with The Shining Stars. On the July 25 episode ofRaw,The Golden Truth would enter the ring during a tag team match between Enzo and Cass and The Shining Stars, playing Pokémon Go! Over a number of months The Shining Stars would attempt to persuade R-Truth into purchasing a one-way ticket to Puerto Rico which saw Goldust continually but in and save R-Truth from being conned. On the August 1 episode ofRaw,The Golden Truth would be defeated by The Shining Stars. On the October 17 episode ofRaw,The Golden Truth were joined byMark Henryin their feud against the Shining Stars. They would go on to defeat The Shining Stars &Titus O'Neilin an 8-man tag team match on the same episode ofRaw.On the October 31 episode ofRaw,Goldust would compete in a battle royal with the winner being added to Team Raw at Survivor Series. Goldust was unsuccessful withBraun Strowmanwinning the battle royal and joining Team Raw in the process. The Golden Truth were later announced as members of the 10-man Survivor Series Raw Tag Team stable but later lost their spots a week later when it was revealed R-Truth had sold their spots on the team to the Shining Stars for tickets to Puerto Rico. On the November 7 episode ofRaw,The Shining Stars defeated The Golden Truth to join Team Raw. On the November 28 episode ofRaw,Goldust attacked Braun Strowman after his victory over R-Truth. Sami Zayn would then run into the ring and help in attacking Strowman. AtWWE Tribute to the TroopsonDecember 14,The Golden Truth competed in aFatal 4-Way tag team matchto determine the #1 contenders to the WWE Tag Team Championship againstCesaro and Sheamus,Gallows and Anderson,andThe Shining Stars,which was won by Cesaro and Sheamus.

On the March 27, 2017, episode ofRaw,the Golden Truth was confirmed for the 4th annualAndré the GiantMemorial Battle Royal atWrestleMania 33,however neither one of them was successful in winning. On the April 17 episode ofRaw,The Golden Truth were going to compete against Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson but were attacked backstage by Braun Strowman, leavingEnzo AmoreandBig Cassto take The Golden Truth's place in the match.

On the May 8 episode ofRaw,The Golden Truth participated in the tag team turmoil match for the No. 1 Contenders spot against TheHardy Boyz,but lost to Cesaro and Sheamus.On the May 15 episode ofRaw,R-Truth apologized to Goldust for "letting the team down" and Goldust replied by saying they "win and lose as a team". Later that night, Goldust attacked R-Truth before a match against Gallows and Anderson, turning heel for the first time since 2015 and breaking up The Golden Truth.

Last feuds and departure (2017–2019)

On the May 22 episode ofRaw,a vignette was aired with Goldust, stating that he was in the director's chair and that "the Golden Age is back", starting a feud with R-Truth.On the July 10 episode ofRaw,Goldust defeated R-Truth, concluding their feud.On the August 28 episode ofRaw,Goldust participated in the 15-man battle royal for a shot at the Intercontinental Championship. Goldust was unsuccessful though, as he was eliminated byLuke Gallows.

On the September 11 episode ofRaw,Goldust facedBray Wyattin a losing effort.After the match, Wyatt used a towel to remove his facepaint, saying he was "just a man", as a shot towards the face and body paint Wyatt's rivalFinn Bálorwould use. The next week onRaw,under his real name and without his signature facepaint (although still using Goldust's theme and ring attire), Rhodes faced Wyatt once again in a losing effort.Bálor ran down to help Rhodes after the match, when Wyatt continued to attack him. Rhodes, however, resented the help and attacked Bálor during a confrontation backstage on the September 25 episode ofRaw.He had a match against Bálor later that night, but was defeated.AtStarrcade,he competed as "The Natural" Dustin Rhodes, defeatingDash Wilderwith the bulldog.

On the January 1, 2018, episode ofRaw,Rhodes, now back as Goldust, teamed withCedric Alexanderto defeatDrew GulakandAriya Daivari.A rematch took place on the January 2 episode of205 Live,a show usually reserved for competitors under205 pounds.At theRoyal Rumble,Goldust entered theRoyal Rumble matchat number 29, but was eliminated byDolph Ziggler.In January, Goldust was announced as a competitor in theWWE Mixed Match ChallengealongsideAlicia Fox.Fox was replaced byMandy Roseafter an injury, and Goldust and Rose lost in the first round toJimmy UsoandNaomion February 6.On the March 5 episode of Raw, Goldust would confront and attackJohn Cenaduring a promo, stating he would "shatter his dreams", but was subsequently defeated by Cena that same night. On the April 2 episode of Raw, Goldust cut a backstage promo where he announced his participation in the upcoming André The Giant Memorial Battle Royal match atWrestleMania 34,and lost a match to"Woken" Matt Hardythat same night. At Wrestlemania 34, Goldust participated in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, where he eliminated R-Truth. At theGreatest Royal Rumble,Goldust entered the aforementioned match at number 18 and lasted 10 minutes before being eliminated byBobby Roode.In July, Goldust underwent surgery on both knees. On March 28, 2019, it was reported byPro Wrestling Sheetthat Runnels left the WWE after his contract expired, thus ending his six-year tenure with the promotion.Runnels confirmed his departure on April 21, 2019, stating he asked for his release.

All Elite Wrestling (2019–present)

Rhodes in AEW in October 2019

On April 20, 2019, it was revealed on "Road to Double or Nothing" that Rhodes would face his real life half-brother, Cody, atAll Elite Wrestling(AEW)'sDouble or Nothingpay-per-view.At Double or Nothing on May 25, Runnels, under his old gimmick as "The Natural", failed to win. The match was rated5 starsby professional wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer. Post-match, the brothers embraced after the announcement they would reunite to faceThe Young Bucksat theFight for the Fallenevent on July 13.On August 2, 2019, it was announced that Dustin Rhodes had signed a multi-year deal with All Elite Wrestling as wrestler and coach.On the premiere episode ofAEW Dynamiteon October 2, Rhodes returned to TNT for the first timein over 18 years,Rhodes,The Young Bucksand his half-brother Cody were attacked byThe Inner Circle(Chris Jericho,Santana and Ortiz,Sammy GuevaraandJake Hager). On the October 22, 2019, episode ofAEW Dark,Runnels picked up his first victory, by pinningCima,in an 8-Man Tag Team Match.On the October 23, 2019, episode ofDynamitewhere he helped his brother Cody andMJFattack Chris Jericho and his stable The Inner Circle. Runnels' feud with The Inner Circle concluded when he lost toJake Hagerin Hager's AEW debut match atRevolution.On the Road to Double or Nothing special, Rhodes announced that if he were to lose to Kip Sabian in the first round of theTNT Championshiptournament then he would retire. On the April 22, 2020, episode ofDynamite,Rhodes defeated Kip Sabian to win the quarterfinals match and advance to the second round of the TNT Championship Tournament.The second round saw him facing "The Murderhawk" Lance Archer, with Rhodes losing the match.During the May 20 broadcast ofDynamite,Shawn Spearsinsulted Rhodes and his family during a segment, setting up a match between the two at theDouble or Nothingon May 23, 2020. During his Double or Nothing return match, Rhodes ripped Spears' clothes and won via pinfall after hitting the Final Reckoning (Curtain Call).Rhodes andQ. T. Marshallwho first teamed as "The Natural Nightmares" on February 19, unsuccessfully challenged for theAEW World Tag Team ChampionshipagainstKenny OmegaandAdam Pageon the June 17Dynamite.To avenge Cody losing the TNT Championship toBrodie Lee,Rhodes and Marshall teamed withMatt CardonaandScorpio SkyatAll Out,defeatingThe Dark Order(Brodie Lee,Colt Cabana,Evil Uno and Stu Grayson). After the match, Rhodes challenged Brodie for the TNT Championship on the followingDynamite,which he lost.

On the November 11, 2020, episode ofDynamite,the "Natural Nightmares" teamed up again to defeatThe Butcher and the Bladein abunkhouse match.On the December 9, 2020, episode ofDynamite,Rhodes defeated theDark Order's 10by pinfall.

AtAEW Battle of the Beltson January 8, 2022, Rhodes lost toSammy Guevarain an InterimAEW TNT Championshiptitle match.

On the July 1, 2023, episode ofAEW Collision,Rhodes competed in theOwen Hart Foundation Men's Tournament,losing toPowerhouse Hobbsin the quarterfinals of the tournament.

AtAEW Worlds Endin December 2023, Rhodes lost toSwerve Strickland,substituting for the injuredKeith Lee.

Filmography

Film
Year	Title	Role	Notes
2014	Meet Me There	Preacher Woodward
2015	The Murders of Brandywine Theater	Officer
2016	Scooby-Doo! and WWE: Curse of the Speed Demon	Goldust	Voice
2019	Scare Package	The Devil's Lake Impaler	"Horror Hypothesis"
2020	Copper Bill	Mitchell White

Television
Year	Title	Role	Notes
2020	Misanthrope	Nate Doolan	"Stolen Valor"
2021	Rhodes To The Top

Video games

WCW Video games
Year	Title	Notes
1994	WCW: The Main Event	Video game debut as Dustin Rhodes
	WCW SuperBrawl Wrestling

WWE Video games
Year	Title	Notes
1996	WWF In Your House	Video game debut as Goldust
1998	WWF War Zone
1999	WWF Attitude
2001	With Authority!
2002	WWE SmackDown! Shut Your Mouth
2003	WWE WrestleMania XIX
	WWE Raw 2
	WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain
2009	WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010
2010	WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011
2011	WWE '12
2012	WWE '13	Downloadable content
2014	WWE 2K15	Motion capture
2015	WWE 2K16	Motion capture
2016	WWE 2K17	Motion capture
2017	WWE 2K18	Motion capture
2018	WWE 2K19	Motion capture

AEW Video games
Year	Title	Notes
2023	AEW Fight Forever

Other media

He also appears inBlack Moth Super Rainbow's video for "Hairspray Heart", from their albumCobra Juicy.

Personal life

Runnels is the son of Virgil Runnels, better known as"The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes(1945–2015), and his first wife Sandra.His half-brother is fellow wrestlerCody Rhodes.He has two sisters, Kristin Runnels Ditto, who is a formerDallas Cowboys Cheerleader,and Teil Gergel.

Runnels was previously married toTerri Runnels.They have a daughter together.The couple divorced after six years of marriage on October 18, 1999.The two became grandparents in 2023.Runnels also has a stepchild.

Runnels' autobiography,Cross Rhodes: Goldust, Out of the Darkness,was released on December 14, 2010.In the book, Runnels mentioned that he was married a second time to an unnamed woman. "I also had a short-lived and highly volatile second marriage. We only dated for a few months, then, one day, we just went to the justice of the peace and did the deed." He was referring to Milena Martelloni, whom he married on December 18, 2002; they divorced in 2003.Runnels married his third wife, Ta-rel Marie Roche, on June 22, 2012.

Championships and accomplishments

Goldust is a two-timeWWE Tag Team Champion.

• American Combat Wrestling
  • ACW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
• Championship Wrestling from Florida
  • NWA Florida Heavyweight Championship(1 time)
  • FCW Tag Team Championship(1 time) – withMike Graham
• Coastal Championship Wrestling
  • CCW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
• Professional Wrestling Federation
  • PWF Florida Championship (1 time)
• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
  • Comeback of the Year(2013)
  • Match of the Year(2019) –vs.CodyatDouble or Nothing
  • Most Improved Wrestler of the Year(1991)
  • Ranked No. 11 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in thePWI 500in 1996
  • Ranked No. 126 of the top 500 singles wrestlers of the "PWI Years" in 2003
• Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling
  • TCW Heavyweight Championship(1 time)
• World Championship Wrestling
  • WCW United States Heavyweight Championship(2 times)
  • WCW World Six-Man Tag Team Championship(1 time) – withBig JoshandTom Zenk
  • WCW World Tag Team Championship(2 times) – withRicky Steamboat(1) andBarry Windham(1)
  • NWA World Tag Team Championship(1 time) – with Barry Windham
  • WCW United States Championship Tournament (1993)
• Wrestling Observer Newsletter
  • Most Embarrassing Wrestler(1997)
  • Most Improved(1991)
  • Rookie of the Year(1989)
  • Worst Gimmick(1995)as Goldust
  • Worst Gimmick (1997)as The Artist Formerly Known As Goldust
  • Worst Gimmick (2007)as Black Reign
• WWE/World Wrestling Entertainment/Federation
  • WWF Intercontinental Championship(3 times)
  • World Tag Team Championship(1 time) – withBooker T
  • WWE Tag Team Championship(2 times) – withCody Rhodes/Stardust
  • WWF Hardcore Championship(7 times)
  • Slammy Award(4 times)
    • Best Couple (1997)withMarlena
    • Frequent Tweeter (2010)
    • "You Still Got It" Best Superstar Return of the Year (2013)
    • Tag Team of the Year (2013) – with Cody Rhodes

Further reading

• Rhodes, Dustin; Vancil, Mark (2010).Cross Rhodes: Goldust, Out of the Darkness.Gallery Books.ISBN9781439195161.

External links

• Media related toDustin Runnelsat Wikimedia Commons
• Official website
• GoldustonWWE.com
• Dustin Rhodes's profile atCagematch.net,Wrestlingdata.com,Internet Wrestling Database