On WWE SmackDown tonight, Cody Rhodes faces Jacob Fatu and Sami Zayn in a triple-threat match to determine the qualifier for the upcoming Elimination Chamber event. This match represents Rhodes’ final opportunity to secure a spot at WrestleMania 42 and reclaim the Undisputed WWE Championship from Drew McIntyre. The stakes are high, and tensions run deep as these former champions and skilled competitors clash in what promises to be a fiercely contested bout.
Potential Interference by Drew McIntyre Could Shift the Outcome
Drew McIntyre, who holds the Undisputed WWE Championship, will be watching the match closely, with a vested interest in preventing Cody Rhodes from advancing. McIntyre’s actions at last month’s Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia, where his interference led to Rhodes’ elimination, demonstrate his willingness to alter outcomes in his favor. Given McIntyre’s dislike for both Rhodes and Jacob Fatu, it’s plausible he could disrupt the match by attacking both opponents, clearing the path for Sami Zayn to claim victory.
McIntyre’s strategy hinges on controlling results to avoid a rematch with Rhodes at WrestleMania. Even if Zayn wins the Elimination Chamber, McIntyre may believe his undefeated streak of 12-0 against Zayn will give him the upper hand once again at the main event.
Possibility of Cody Rhodes Embracing a Heel Persona to Secure Victory
Facing significant career setbacks since his WWE return in 2022, including losing his championship and a decline in fan support, Cody Rhodes might resort to drastic measures. To revive his trajectory and climb back to the top, Rhodes could turn heel during this match to guarantee a win. This shift might involve ruthless tactics such as delivering a low blow to Sami Zayn or using a steel chair to overpower his opponents.
A heel turn would mark a significant transformation in Rhodes’ current character arc, potentially reinvigorating his storylines and adding a darker edge to his journey toward the Elimination Chamber. This change could impact how fans perceive him as he enters the next phase of competition.
Cody Rhodes Expected to Win Cleanly and Advance Toward Elimination Chamber
The most likely scenario sees Cody Rhodes claiming a clean victory tonight, setting his sights firmly on the Elimination Chamber event in Chicago on February 28, 2026. Reports indicate Rhodes is favored to win the Elimination Chamber match itself, positioning him for a championship challenge against Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship. This outcome would align with Rhodes’ role as the American Nightmare striving to regain his former glory.
Still, McIntyre’s involvement remains uncertain—whether he will interfere again to hamper Rhodes or allow the match to play out fairly will greatly influence the road leading to WrestleMania 42. Fans will discover how these complex rivalries unfold as the match progresses.
