Drew McIntyre has once again prevented Cody Rhodes from earning a shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship by interfering in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match. This occurred recently on SmackDown, where McIntyre’s actions stopped Rhodes from winning, but his strategy may have unintended consequences. The possibility of new WrestleMania opponents for Drew McIntyre is now emerging as Nick Aldis enters the scene.
Following McIntyre’s interference, Nick Aldis expressed frustration with the Scottish Warrior’s constant interruptions and arranged a title match between himself and McIntyre on this week’s SmackDown episode. Meanwhile, rumors are circulating that Randy Orton could challenge Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship. Should that happen, McIntyre risks losing the title before WrestleMania 42, and Aldis might select a representative to face McIntyre on his behalf during the event. Considering the long-standing tension between Aldis and McIntyre, WWE’s creative team, led by Triple H, might develop this into a significant storyline for The Showcase of the Immortals.
Potential Opponents Nick Aldis Could Choose for Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania
Although Nick Aldis might not return to compete directly, several Warner wrestling Superstars could be selected to challenge Drew McIntyre. Here are five contenders who could be picked to face McIntyre at WrestleMania 42.
5. Jacob Fatu as a Possible Challenger
Jacob Fatu has history with Drew McIntyre, making him a logical contender if Aldis opts to appoint a substitute opponent. With Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton potentially clashing for the Undisputed WWE Title, Fatu may lack a clear storyline heading into WrestleMania. This gap makes a matchup with McIntyre an appealing scenario, as it offers direction for Fatu and an intriguing contest for fans at the Las Vegas event.
4. Ilja Dragunov’s Physical Edge
Ilja Dragunov is renowned for his aggressive and hard-hitting style, standing out as one of SmackDown’s toughest competitors. Aldis might prefer someone who can match McIntyre’s intensity and deliver a punishing performance. A pairing between McIntyre and Dragunov could produce a memorable, hard-fought bout, granting The Mad Dragon a prominent WrestleMania spotlight.
3. Aleister Black’s Mind Games
Aleister Black combines lethal in-ring technique with psychological tactics, both of which could challenge McIntyre’s own mind-game abilities. Nick Aldis may see Black, alongside Zelina Vega’s support, as an ideal choice to engage McIntyre in a battle that goes beyond pure physicality. Their contrasting wrestling styles could provide a compelling spectacle at WrestleMania 42.
2. Gunther’s Dominance and Uncertain Future
Gunther has recently established himself as a dominant force after high-profile victories over John Cena and AJ Styles. Despite his momentum, he reportedly lacks a confirmed WrestleMania storyline. Aldis might select Gunther, known as The Ring General and Career Killer, to face McIntyre in what would likely be a hard-hitting rematch, recalling their previous clashes where Gunther controlled the competition.
1. Oba Femi’s Emerging Rivalry
Oba Femi has unfinished business with Drew McIntyre following a recent interference that disrupted Femi’s match against Cody Rhodes in December. Now stepping onto the main roster and making an immediate impact, Femi’s future is still open while he remains a free agent. Should Aldis extend a contract offer, Femi could become a fresh and formidable contender to face McIntyre at WrestleMania 42, bringing new energy into the storyline.
The evolving dynamics between Drew McIntyre, Nick Aldis, and potential opponents add complexity to the WrestleMania 42 lineup. With rumors about the Undisputed WWE Championship contenders generating buzz, Aldis’ decision on who will confront McIntyre could significantly influence the event’s narrative. Fans can expect these possible matchups to shape the build-up to WrestleMania in the coming weeks, highlighting intense rivalries and fresh challenges on the grandest stage in professional wrestling.
.@DMcIntyreWWE vs @CodyRhodes THIS FRIDAY for the Undisputed WWE Championship! 💯@RealNickAldis makes it OFFICIAL! pic.twitter.com/wX9Xne7Sm4
— WWE (@WWE) March 1, 2026
