Drew McIntyre
WWE reportedly sets Rhodes to reclaim Undisputed Championship from McIntyre on SmackDown, defend against Orton at WrestleMania 42
Reported by AI Image generated by AI
Multiple reports confirm WWE's pivot toward Cody Rhodes defeating Undisputed WWE Champion Drew McIntyre on the March 6, 2026, SmackDown in Portland, positioning Rhodes for a title defense against Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas. Orton earned his shot by winning the Men's Elimination Chamber match, eliminating Rhodes after McIntyre's interference, fulfilling long-teased tension from their Legacy days.
Cody Rhodes expressed his desire to face Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42 after losing the WWE Championship to him earlier this year. In recent interviews, Rhodes discussed closing their long-standing rivalry and shared concerns over multiple retirements in WWE. He also hinted at a potential return by Bad Bunny for the event in Las Vegas.