Randy Orton suffered a defeat in the main event of this week’s SmackDown following a surprising attack by Drew McIntyre. The Scottish superstar struck Orton at ringside with the Undisputed WWE Championship belt while the referee was distracted, enabling Aleister Black to capitalize and secure the victory. This incident has raised questions about McIntyre’s intent and his ongoing campaign to eliminate anyone threatening his title reign.
‘The Apex Predator’ appeared devastated as the blow from McIntyre left him nearly unconscious. Aleister Black then delivered his signature Black Mass finisher, claiming the most significant victory of his WWE career. Cody Rhodes attempted to intervene and chase after McIntyre, but the champion escaped before any confrontation could take place. Rhodes, who shares a close bond with Orton, helplessly witnessed the attack unfold from a distance.
McIntyre’s Strategy Targets Potential Rivals Ahead of WrestleMania
McIntyre’s ambush suggests a clear strategy to remove key challengers in his path, with Orton now possibly positioned as a WrestleMania 42 contender if he wins the upcoming Elimination Chamber match. Orton secured his spot in the Elimination Chamber by defeating both Solo Sikoa and Aleister Black in a qualifying match, though he pinned Sikoa and not Black—a detail that hints at a potential feud brewing between Orton and Black.
This developing rivalry between Orton and Black could expand in significance as WrestleMania approaches, particularly if Black interferes in Orton’s Chamber match. Fans have speculated that this storyline might shape the main event scene, especially with mixed reactions to the current WrestleMania card. Meanwhile, rumors persist about Orton’s possible involvement as the mysterious attacker of Jacob Fatu, but Fatu remains focused on a rumored triple-threat match against both McIntyre and Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE title.
Backstage, Fatu told General Manager Nick Aldis he’s growing impatient to confront McIntyre, further intensifying the championship picture heading into WrestleMania.
AJ Styles Confirmed for Tribute on This Week’s Raw
WWE announced that AJ Styles will appear on this week’s Raw in Georgia to mark the conclusion of his WWE career. While uncertainty loomed over whether Styles would be physically present during the tribute, SmackDown commentator Joe Tessitore confirmed that ‘The Phenomenal One’ will address the WWE Universe one final time on Monday. Several SmackDown athletes are being flown in to join this farewell event.
The tribute is anticipated to be a genuine send-off, quashing rumors that Styles might return from retirement to compete at WrestleMania. WWE released a detailed vlog chronicling Styles’ journey from the Royal Rumble loss to Gunther, which effectively ended his wrestling tenure. Originally, Styles intended to retire at WrestleMania, but an injury delayed that plan.
AJ Styles Reflects on Retirement Plans and Injury Impact
Styles revealed that a Lisfranc injury in October 2024 altered his retirement timeline, postponing his departure from WWE. He had aimed to bow out at WrestleMania, describing it as the ideal finale for any wrestler. Returning for the Royal Rumble in early February, Styles felt it was unfair to come back briefly only to retire soon after. Therefore, he extended his run for another year, aiming to close his career on the pay-per-view where he made his WWE debut in 2016.
AJ Styles reveals he was originally going to retire at WrestleMania 41, changed his mind after his foot injury: “Everybody wants to retire at WrestleMania, the biggest show of the year that we do. I was going to do exactly that, but I just came back from an injury that was…” – AJ Styles, WWE Wrestler
Wrestling Landscape Shifts with Title Implications and Emerging Rivalries
These recent developments on SmackDown not only emphasize Drew McIntyre’s ruthlessness in defending his championship but also highlight the intensifying wrestling rivalries leading into WrestleMania. McIntyre’s hostile actions against Orton could make their eventual confrontation more heated, especially if Orton earns a Chamber match victory to challenge for the title.
The escalating tension between Orton and Aleister Black adds another layer of complexity, potentially changing the lineup of WrestleMania matches. Coupled with Jacob Fatu’s pursuit of McIntyre and Rhodes, the championship contention is shaping into a multifaceted battle. Fans should expect a dramatic buildup as WrestleMania 42 approaches, with the outcome of the Elimination Chamber likely playing a pivotal role.
Aleister Black defeats Randy Orton with an assist from Drew McIntyre!#SmackDown
— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) February 21, 2026
Aleister Black continues trying to play mind games with Randy Orton and references the Punt Kick
“There was this one thing that they feared much more than the RKO… and I wonder, Randy, where is that man?”#SmackDown
— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) February 21, 2026
A big update regarding plans for the AJ Styles tribute on WWE Raw:https://t.co/SPrWX8kKAC pic.twitter.com/OTJSPHVvxR
— WrestleTalk (@WrestleTalk_TV) February 21, 2026
AJ Styles reveals he was originally going to retire at WrestleMania 41, changed his mind after his foot injury:
“Everybody wants to retire at WrestleMania, the biggest show of the year that we do. I was going to do exactly that, but I just came back from an injury that was… pic.twitter.com/LFpOYIdpef
— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) February 20, 2026
