This week’s SmackDown will feature Drew McIntyre defending the Undisputed WWE Championship against Cody Rhodes, but rumors suggest McIntyre could lose the title ahead of WrestleMania 42. The match, scheduled for March 6, follows tension between Rhodes and McIntyre after the Elimination Chamber event, where McIntyre prevented Rhodes from headlining and clashed with SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis.
Early Plans Indicate Cody Rhodes to Face Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42
A report from Self Made Pro on March 2, 2026, revealed that by early February, those close to Cody Rhodes were informed the WrestleMania main event would likely be Cody Rhodes defending the WWE Title against Randy Orton. This information came directly from Rhodes’ camp and signals a precise booking plan well in advance of WrestleMania 42.
“I was told on February 2nd, straight up and explicitly, that the WWE Championship match — according to Cody’s camp — was Cody versus Randy Orton. I was explicitly told that. Cody’s camp was told as of early February that he was going to be getting a Randy Orton match.”
This is a significant development given Orton’s recent victory in the Men’s Elimination Chamber, securing his position as the number one contender for the title. Rhodes reportedly supports this potential rivalry.
“Cody is a believer in that match and a believer in that program. We’ll see what they end up doing. We’ll see if they stick with that.”
Implications for Drew McIntyre and WWE’s Creative Direction
If the February briefing remains accurate, Drew McIntyre will likely lose the championship on SmackDown, allowing Rhodes to capture the belt just weeks before WrestleMania 42. WWE’s creative process is known to be flexible, and storylines can change rapidly, meaning the SmackDown title match might be less unpredictable than anticipated.
This potential title change sets up a marquee WrestleMania moment featuring Cody Rhodes defending against Randy Orton, which aligns with longstanding audience interest and WWE’s promotional strategy. Fans and analysts will be closely watching SmackDown for signs of storyline shifts in the coming weeks.
Setting the Stage for a High-Stakes WrestleMania Clash
The possible trajectory toward a Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton WWE Title match at WrestleMania 42 adds an intense layer of anticipation to the WWE landscape. With Drew McIntyre’s reign potentially ending soon, the SmackDown encounter carries significant weight, serving as a critical juncture in the championship storyline. The outcome could influence WWE’s biggest annual event and future title narratives.
