This Friday’s WWE SmackDown event, taking place in Phoenix, Arizona, is expected to feature a high-stakes Undisputed WWE Championship match between Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes. According to multiple sources, including reports from PWInsider and Fightful, the current plan within WWE suggests that Rhodes is likely to defeat McIntyre and claim the championship at this show, signaling a significant shift in the title picture.
Inside WWE’s WrestleMania 42 Championship Plans
Mike Johnson of PWInsider revealed that WWE officials are prioritizing a championship showdown between Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 42. Orton’s recent victory in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match is reportedly the first key move toward this desired matchup. While the expected title change on SmackDown aligns with this storyline, sources emphasize that McIntyre’s performance as champion is not the reason for the decision, indicating a strategic direction rather than a reaction to his reign.
Possible Scenarios for Drew McIntyre After Losing the Title
Despite the likely loss of the Undisputed WWE Championship, McIntyre’s future remains open to several possibilities. Plans could involve a Triple Threat match for the title, or a supporting storyline featuring Jacob Fatu as a contender. Less likely but still discussed is an intriguing match between McIntyre and SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis at WrestleMania 42, which would position McIntyre in a prominent non-title role if the rumored title change goes forward.
WWE Officials Confirm Title Change Expectations
Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp confirmed that sources within WWE anticipate a title change during this Friday’s SmackDown. The intention to have Rhodes face Orton for the championship at WrestleMania 42 appears firmly in place among WWE officials, emphasizing the significance of this weekend’s event as a turning point for the company’s championship landscape.
Implications for WWE’s Championship Narrative
This potential shakeup marks a critical moment for the Undisputed WWE Championship trajectory, with far-reaching consequences for the upcoming WrestleMania. Should Rhodes capture the title on SmackDown, it sets the stage for a marquee encounter with Randy Orton, impacting storytelling and fan anticipation. For McIntyre, the outcome could lead to fresh rivalries and match types, maintaining his visibility despite the championship loss.
Was gonna hold off on this tomorrow. Will have a lot of details on when this started to be the plan https://t.co/xcakLfkx8r
— Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com (@SeanRossSapp) March 4, 2026
