Cody Rhodes’ Undisputed Championship loss became the center of wrestling speculation after his 159-day reign ended dramatically on WWE Friday Night SmackDown. The focus keyword, “Cody Rhodes Undisputed Championship loss,” anchors a spotlight on the possible backstage influences, including rumors about The Rock’s involvement in the stunning upset.
Jacob Fatu’s Return Alters the Main Event
The WWE universe witnessed an unexpected twist during Friday Night SmackDown when Drew McIntyre claimed victory over Cody Rhodes. This outcome was significantly shaped by interference from Jacob Fatu, a returning former United States Champion. Fatu’s timely involvement allowed McIntyre, known as the Scotsman, to escape the steel cage and clinch the win, abruptly ending Rhodes’ reign as champion. The wrestling community reacted with shock and fueled debates about the true masterminds behind the result.
The Rock’s Potential Role Sparks Conspiracy Theories
Jacob Fatu and The Rock share familial ties within the same wrestling dynasty. This relationship forms the foundation for widespread speculation that The Rock, dubbed “The People’s Champion” and “The Final Boss,” orchestrated Fatu’s interference to dethrone Cody Rhodes, also known as The American Nightmare. These theories suggest that The Rock may soon return to World Wrestling Entertainment and could reveal that he masterminded Rhodes’ title loss, paving the way for a headline feud at WrestleMania 42.
A Rivalry Years in the Making Remains Unfinished
The intense feud between The Rock and Cody Rhodes started at WWE WrestleMania XL and has persisted for two years without a true resolution. World Wrestling Entertainment has yet to deliver closure on this saga, prompting speculation about an epic showdown at an upcoming Showcase of the Immortals. Some believe that by tying The Rock to Rhodes’ championship defeat, WWE can set up a direct confrontation that could finally settle their long-standing rivalry on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
Drew McIntyre’s Relationship With The Rock Comes Into Question
Drew McIntyre, also known as The Scottish Warrior, maintains a notable rapport with The Rock. The two have been seen together on several occasions, and McIntyre has spoken about the depth of their friendship. Building on this, speculation runs wild that McIntyre’s actions against Cody Rhodes may have been influenced or even directed by The Rock himself. Given that McIntyre’s journey intersected with the pivotal moment when John Cena’s character shifted last year at WWE SummerSlam, some theorize that McIntyre, possibly at The Rock’s behest, was chosen to finally end Rhodes’ title run in 2026.
What This Means for WWE’s Future Storylines
The aftermath of Cody Rhodes’ Undisputed Championship loss brings unresolved storylines and amplifies intrigue for WWE’s global audience. Should The Rock return and his involvement be confirmed, it would position him at the center of a high-profile rivalry against Rhodes, potentially setting up a WrestleMania showdown. As the company moves forward, this mix of real competition and speculation over behind-the-scenes alliances showcases the complex narratives that keep the WWE universe engaged and anticipating what will unfold next.
🚨 AND NEW
Drew McIntyre has defeated Cody Rhodes to become the new Undisputed Champion.#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/Kqhwj0csvu
— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) January 9, 2026
