Dustin Rhodes, a name synonymous with championship victories in the world of professional wrestling, has always known how to claim a title. From WWE to AEW, WCW to Ring of Honor, his career is a testament to relentless dedication and triumph. But his latest success story doesn't unfold in the ring – it’s a tale of canine competition and a gentle giant named Beast.
Beast, a magnificent mastiff, recently earned a remarkable third-place finish in the working group open category at Crufts, the world’s most prestigious dog show held in the United Kingdom. Rhodes described the event as “incredible,” a stage where they decided to aim for the highest possible honor. It was a bold move, and one that paid off handsomely.
The sheer size of Beast is astonishing; he tips the scales at a hefty 250 pounds, outweighing Rhodes himself. This isn’t just a matter of impressive stature, however. Beast possesses a remarkable intelligence and a natural instinct to care for his owner’s well-being, even sensing fluctuations in blood pressure.
Rhodes speaks with genuine affection about mastiffs, declaring he’ll never own another breed. He describes them as “pure, loyal, loving,” capable of both immense strength and surprising tenderness, happily collapsing onto your lap despite their size. It’s a bond built on years of experience with various breeds, but none compare to the mastiff’s unique qualities.
Maintaining a dog of Beast’s size is no small feat. His diet is a carefully curated blend of dry food, chicken, rice, and even steak, costing Rhodes around $200 each month. Eight cups a day are required to fuel this gentle behemoth, a testament to the dedication required for top-level competition.
Rhodes admits he never envisioned himself immersed in the world of dog shows, but just two years into the circuit, he and Beast are already achieving extraordinary results. He’s assembled a dedicated team, including his wife, Ta-rel Runnels, and experienced handler Terry Smith, all focused on a singular goal.
Their ambition doesn’t stop at third place. Rhodes is setting his sights on the ultimate prize: Best in Show. With 13 wins already under their belt, they’re determined to reach a total of 29, embarking on a rigorous campaign to showcase Beast’s exceptional qualities and secure the coveted title.
This isn’t just about ribbons and accolades; it’s a story of partnership, dedication, and the extraordinary bond between a wrestler and his remarkable dog. It’s a testament to the fact that championship material can be found in the most unexpected places, and sometimes, it comes with four legs and a wagging tail.
