Cody Rhodes secured the Undisputed WWE Championship by defeating Drew McIntyre on SmackDown, marking a significant moment in WWE’s current storyline. Shortly after Rhodes’ victory, Randy Orton sent him a one-word message on social media that drew attention from former WWE Superstar CJ Perry.
Rhodes’ win was confirmed by Nick Aldis, who noted that McIntyre had previously blocked Rhodes from capturing the title at the 2026 Elimination Chamber Premium Live Event. Perry, known previously as Lana, responded to Orton’s message with just one word, describing the moment as “Wild.”
Backstory of the Rhodes and McIntyre Feud Leading to WrestleMania
The rivalry between Rhodes and McIntyre has been intense over several months, with Rhodes successfully defending the championship before losing it in a brutal Three Stages of Hell Match, influenced by interference from Jacob Fatu. Meanwhile, Randy Orton, nicknamed The Viper, won the Elimination Chamber Match after McIntyre attacked Rhodes, enabling Orton to execute his signature RKO finishing move.
This series of events sets the stage for Orton and Rhodes to face off next at WrestleMania 42, adding high stakes to the upcoming showdown.
Drew McIntyre’s Reaction Highlights Tensions Over WWE’s Main Event Scene
Drew McIntyre recently spoke out about the state of WWE programming during his time as champion compared to now with Rhodes holding the title. On the podcast Unlikely with Adrian Hernandez, he criticized the current product and expressed his belief that WWE was more exciting while he was champion.
“The show is a lot more exciting right now. Much, much more exciting. Come on. It was the same every week. It was like watching repeat every week when Cody’s champion. Look at him now with his little edge, so angry the time right now. That’s my favorite Cody. They say Cody’s the most dangerous when he’s chasing, but you know what? Drew McIntyre is the most dangerous when I’m champion,”
— Drew McIntyre, WWE Superstar
Following these comments, Orton and Rhodes are expected to clash on the next SmackDown episode as Orton aims for his 15th World Title, further intensifying the championship picture.
Potential Shifts in WWE’s Championship Landscape
With Cody Rhodes carrying the Undisputed WWE Championship and Randy Orton challenging him, the WWE scene is entering a turbulent yet compelling period. McIntyre’s criticisms suggest deep rivalries that could influence WrestleMania 42’s main event plans. Fans and insiders alike are speculating whether WWE will adjust the spotlight heading into its biggest annual event.
As these storylines unfold, the rivalry among Rhodes, Orton, and McIntyre promises to maintain high drama and keep audiences engaged in the lead-up to WrestleMania and beyond.
CJ Perry reaction to Randy Orton's message to Cody Rhodes after SmackDown pic.twitter.com/5KHphbFezW
— WrestleSD (@wrestle_sd) March 7, 2026
