Cody Rhodes secured his spot in the Men’s Elimination Chamber Match on SmackDown last week, positioning himself as the likely winner and next contender for the Undisputed WWE Championship. Drew McIntyre’s determination to keep the title from Rhodes has intensified their rivalry, setting the stage for a decisive showdown at WrestleMania 42. Yet, this confrontation might not be a straightforward singles match, as additional WWE Superstars could change the landscape of this heated feud.
Randy Orton’s Possible Interference in Rhodes’ Title Pursuit
Randy Orton is making his tenth appearance in the Elimination Chamber this year, aiming to add to his record, though he is not favored to win given Rhodes’ momentum. The veteran could exploit the chaos inside the chamber to disrupt Rhodes’ title opportunity, potentially siding with McIntyre’s efforts to retain the championship. Orton’s interference might allow him to seize the victory and secure a WrestleMania 42 match against McIntyre, further complicating Rhodes’ chances of reclaiming the title. Despite this, Rhodes could still maneuver back into contention by overcoming either Orton or McIntyre in subsequent events.
Jacob Fatu’s Aggressive Entry into the Championship Battle
Jacob Fatu, known as the Samoan Werewolf, came close to winning last week’s Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match before McIntyre’s Claymore Kick eliminated him. This attack may fuel Fatu’s desire for retribution, prompting him to target both McIntyre and the eventual Elimination Chamber winner. Spins of the rivalry suggest Rhodes winning the match fits with Fatu’s unresolved issues with the former United States Champion, potentially positioning Fatu as a wild card at WrestleMania 42. With SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis facing limited options, Fatu’s addition could convert the showdown into a Triple Threat contest, raising the stakes significantly.
The Rock’s Unexpected Return Could Influence the Title Match
The Rock, last seen on WWE television nearly a year ago during a heel turn he aided John Cena with, remains a looming figure in Rhodes’ storyline. Although absent from the build-up to WrestleMania 41, The Rock may reappear ahead of WrestleMania 42 to continue his unfinished business with Rhodes, who he left bruised in a prior encounter. His return might not involve wrestling but would see him align with McIntyre, supporting the Scottish Warrior in his championship defense. Their off-screen friendship is well known, underscored by The Rock gifting McIntyre a sword upon re-signing with WWE. This alliance could influence the outcome at the Las Vegas event, as The Rock seeks to ensure McIntyre’s reign endures on WWE’s grandest stage.
Implications for the WrestleMania 42 Championship Scene
The possible involvement of Randy Orton, Jacob Fatu, and The Rock introduces multiple variables that could upend expectations for the Undisputed WWE Championship match at WrestleMania 42. Each brings a unique element—whether direct competition, a wildcard presence, or strategic interference—that enhances the complexity and anticipation surrounding the event. As the rivalry between Rhodes and McIntyre intensifies, the inclusion of these stars could lead to an unpredictable and captivating climax at WWE’s flagship show in Las Vegas, impacting not only the participants but the broader WWE landscape moving forward.
Drew McIntyre vs. Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed Championship is currently planned to main event Night 1 of WrestleMania 42 this year.
The match could see Jacob Fatu being added to make it a triple-threat.
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— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) February 6, 2026
