How Dustin Rhodes' mastiff Beast stole the show at Crufts 2026
If you thought Dustin Rhodes only knew his way around a Cross Rhodes, think again. The AEW star's beloved mastiff, Beast, has just pulled off something even more impressive—snagging top honours at Crufts 2026, the world's biggest dog show. While the wrestling veteran has spent decades in the ring under countless personas, it turns out his four‑legged mate is the real champion of the family.
From The Natural to top dog
For those who've followed his epic career, Dustin Rhodes is no stranger to a reinvention. Whether he was dazzling fans as Dustin Rhodes - The Natural in WCW, embracing the dark side as Black Reign in TNA, or teaming with his brother Cody in what many still call the most emotional moment in wrestling history, the bloke has lived multiple lives between the ropes. But his latest source of pride doesn't wear tights or cut promos—it tips the scales at a hefty 70 kilos and answers to the name Beast.
A Crufts triumph fit for a Rhodes
Held every year at the NEC in Birmingham, Crufts is the Super Bowl of the dog world, and this year Beast didn't just have a run—he conquered. Competing in the fiercely competitive Mastiff category, the gentle giant impressed judges with his flawless stance, glossy coat, and that unmistakable Rhodes swagger. According to insiders, Beast's performance in the final ring was so commanding that even the most seasoned handlers took notice. While Dustin himself couldn't be at ringside due to his AEW commitments, sources close to the star say he was glued to the live stream backstage before Dynamite, barking orders at the telly.
- Winner: 1st place in the Mastiff breed class
- Judge's comment: "A magnificent specimen with wonderful temperament"
- Best in Show? Beast narrowly missed out on the ultimate prize but walked away with a rosette that now sits proudly next to Dustin's championship belts
Brotherly love, canine style
It's not just Dustin who's celebrating. You can bet Cody and Dustin Rhodes are having a good chuckle about this one—after all, the American Nightmare has always had a soft spot for underdogs, and Beast's victory feels like a full‑circle moment for the Rhodes family. There's even talk that Cody sent a personalised dog bowl engraved with "The American Mutt" as a joke, though that's yet to be confirmed. What is certain is that this win adds a whole new layer to the Rhodes legacy.
Magic Rats, Black Reign and a very good boy
Long‑time fans will remember the odd couple tag team known as Magic Rats—Dustin's short‑lived but much‑loved partnership with a certain masked rodent gimmick. If that wasn't quirky enough, his turn as Black Reign brought a pet owl into the mix. Now, with Beast stealing the spotlight, it seems Dustin has finally found the perfect animal companion. "He's got more presence than some of my old opponents," Dustin joked in a recent interview. "And he doesn't whinge about the travel."
What's next for Beast and Dustin?
With Crufts now in the rearview mirror, both man and dog are enjoying a well‑earned rest—though Dustin is already back in the gym prepping for his next AEW showdown. As for Beast, there's talk of entering more shows later this year, possibly even having a crack at the coveted Best in Show title. One thing's for sure: when Dustin Rhodes eventually hangs up the boots, he'll have one loyal fan waiting at home, ready to cover him in drool instead of streamers.