The main event for Night 1 of WrestleMania 42 has officially been confirmed, and it’s already one of the most debated booking decisions of the year. Cody Rhodes reclaimed the Undisputed WWE Championship on Friday’s episode of WWE SmackDown, defeating Drew McIntyre with help from Jacob Fatu.
That victory sets up a huge championship showdown between Rhodes and Randy Orton, the winner of the 2026 Men’s Elimination Chamber match. The two will face off in the Night 1 main event at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on April 18.
However, the road to this match has left fans divided.
Drew McIntyre’s Short Championship Reign
The rivalry between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre has been a major storyline for months. Since last September, the two have battled four times for the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Their matches unfolded as follows:
- Wrestlepalooza (September): Rhodes defeated McIntyre.
- Saturday Night’s Main Event (November): Rhodes won again.
- January 9 SmackDown: McIntyre finally captured the championship in a brutal 3 Stages of Hell Match.
- Recent SmackDown: Rhodes regained the title.
While McIntyre finally achieved his goal of becoming champion, his reign lasted less than two months. Many fans expected the “Scottish Warrior” to enjoy a longer run at the top.
Some believe WWE originally planned a longer title reign but changed direction following recent creative adjustments.
Why Rhodes vs. Orton Makes Business Sense
Despite criticism surrounding McIntyre’s short title run, there is a strong business reason for WWE’s decision.
From a promotional standpoint, Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton is one of the biggest matches the company can present.
The match offers several advantages:
- A first-time WrestleMania singles clash between the two stars
- A storyline built around former allies becoming rivals
- Huge name recognition for casual fans
- A major draw for ticket sales and global audiences
WWE could have explored other options, such as:
- McIntyre using his rematch clause to create a Triple Threat match
- Adding Jacob Fatu to create a Fatal 4-Way
- Including Sami Zayn in the title picture
However, none of those options likely carry the same mainstream appeal as Rhodes vs. Orton.
WrestleMania 42 Card Taking Shape
The WrestleMania lineup is already filled with high-profile one-on-one matches.
Some of the major bouts expected include:
- Roman Reigns vs CM Punk
- Rhea Ripley vs Jade Cargill
- Liv Morgan vs Stephanie Vaquer
These matches reflect a classic wrestling philosophy: personal rivalries create the biggest drawing power.
The approach was famously championed by legendary promoter Jerry Jarrett.
Could Cody Rhodes Be Turning Into a Villain?
Another interesting element in this storyline is how fans are reacting to Cody Rhodes.
In storyline terms, Rhodes lost both the Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber matches but still received another opportunity at the championship. He then defeated McIntyre to reclaim the title.
This sequence of events may cause some fans to turn against him.
Several factors could contribute to that reaction:
- McIntyre losing his chance at a longer title reign
- Randy Orton chasing his 15th world championship
- Rhodes continuing to stay in the spotlight
Some fans already believe Rhodes may be evolving from a traditional hero into a more complex character — possibly even an anti-hero.
A Story That Could Continue Beyond WrestleMania
One major criticism from fans is that announcing Rhodes vs. Orton only weeks before WrestleMania does not give the storyline enough time to develop.
However, the rivalry may not end at WrestleMania.
If WWE plans to extend the feud beyond the event, the company could explore the deeper history between the two stars and create a longer story arc.
The way crowds react to both wrestlers during the WrestleMania buildup will likely determine the direction of the storyline.
FAQs
Who will face Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 42?
Cody Rhodes will defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Randy Orton.
How did Cody Rhodes win back the WWE Championship?
Rhodes defeated Drew McIntyre on SmackDown with help from Jacob Fatu.
Why are fans debating this WrestleMania match?
Some fans believe Drew McIntyre deserved a longer championship reign before losing the title.
Where will WrestleMania 42 take place?
WrestleMania 42 will be held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
Who won the 2026 Men’s Elimination Chamber match?
Randy Orton won the match, earning the championship opportunity at WrestleMania.
