Cody Rhodes’ Championship Journey
Before March 6, 2026, expectations were high for Cody Rhodes as he prepared to face Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship. Having lost the title to McIntyre in January 2026 during a brutal Three Stages of Hell match, Rhodes was seen as an underdog in this rematch.
However, the championship match on WWE SmackDown took an unexpected turn. Jacob Fatu intervened to prevent McIntyre from using a chair, allowing Rhodes to capitalize on the moment. He executed a Cody Cutter followed by a Cross Rhodes, securing a decisive victory over McIntyre.
This victory marks Cody Rhodes’ third reign as Undisputed WWE Champion, a significant achievement considering the fierce rivalry he had with McIntyre leading up to this match. The win was seen as surprising, especially given Rhodes’ previous losses that had cast doubt on his championship aspirations.
As a result of this victory, Cody Rhodes will enter WrestleMania 42 as the Undisputed WWE Champion, where he is set to face Randy Orton. This matchup is particularly noteworthy as it has been 16 years since Rhodes was part of Orton’s faction, adding a layer of history to their impending clash.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact match card for WrestleMania 42, which is scheduled for April 18 and 19, 2026. Currently, five matches have been confirmed, with Rhodes vs. Orton being a highlight.
Experts have noted that the suddenness of Rhodes’ victory could indicate a shift in WWE’s storytelling direction, with some suggesting it reflects a sense of urgency within the organization. “This was a match that wasn’t supposed to happen due to a no rematch clause,” one analyst commented, highlighting the unexpected nature of the event.
As fans eagerly anticipate WrestleMania 42, the dynamics of the championship landscape have shifted dramatically. Rhodes’ triumph not only reinstates him at the top but also sets the stage for a potentially explosive encounter with Orton.
With the wrestling world watching closely, Rhodes’ journey from defeat to champion will be a focal point in the lead-up to WrestleMania, showcasing the unpredictable nature of professional wrestling.
