At the recent episode of WWE SmackDown, Cody Rhodes defeated Drew McIntyre to become the Undisputed WWE Champion. Despite losing at the WWE Elimination Chamber, Rhodes is set to enter WrestleMania 42 as the reigning champion, where he will face Randy Orton, also known as The Viper. However, this matchup was not initially planned.
Initial Plans Involved a Different Match Setup
According to Mike Johnson from PWInsider Elite, the original WrestleMania concept circulating was a Hell in a Cell match featuring Cody Rhodes versus Drew McIntyre. This plan was revised, placing Rhodes against Orton instead, while McIntyre is now expected to face Jacob Fatu in a separate contest.
“In asking around, it was learned that the original WrestleMania pitch making the rounds was for Cody Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre inside Hell in a Cell. Instead, Cody will face Orton while McIntyre appears to be set for a bout against Jacob Fatu.” – Mike Johnson, PWInsider Elite
McIntyre’s New Bout and Its Potential Impact
Drew McIntyre, a prominent figure on the SmackDown roster and former champion, is now heading into WrestleMania with a different challenge than expected. A clash with Jacob Fatu, known for his intense wrestling style, suggests a fresh rivalry and could mark a significant shift in McIntyre’s storyline trajectory. This change reflects WWE’s ongoing effort to adjust their major event cards to maintain audience interest and deliver surprising moments.
Additional WWE Environment Tensions
The WWE landscape remains tense and unpredictable, with other developments creating unrest among fans and talent alike. From Brock Lesnar’s teased major comeback to concerns about NXT shows possibly leaving Peacock if streaming agreements expire, uncertainty looms. Alongside ongoing health updates on performers and controversial statements circulating in the community, these factors contribute to an anxious atmosphere around WWE’s future programming.
What These Changes Mean for WrestleMania 42
The alterations in Drew McIntyre’s WrestleMania plans highlight WWE’s flexible approach to event storytelling, though it also showcases behind-the-scenes struggles that affect talent bookings. How the match with Jacob Fatu will resonate remains to be seen, but it underscores the company’s attempts to shift dynamics and keep storylines engaging amid a complex and often fraught environment. Fans should prepare for potential surprises as WrestleMania 42 approaches.
In asking around, it was learned that the original WrestleMania pitch making the rounds was for Cody Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre inside Hell in a Cell.
Instead, Cody will face Orton while McIntyre appears to be set for a bout against Jacob Fatu.
– Mike Johnson
(PWInsider Elite) pic.twitter.com/sIEaGAmzYj— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) March 9, 2026
