Cody Rhodes unexpectedly lost the Undisputed WWE Championship to Drew McIntyre on the January 9, 2026, episode of SmackDown, marking a pivotal moment in his career. Despite previous victories over McIntyre, outside interference allowed McIntyre to escape the steel cage and capture the title, signaling potential long-term changes for Rhodes’ status in WWE.
Fan Disinterest Could Hinder Cody Rhodes’ Return as Champion
One of the most significant hurdles for Cody Rhodes reclaiming the WWE Championship is the apparent boredom among WWE fans regarding him as champion. Rhodes regained the title last year at SummerSlam by defeating John Cena, having previously lost it to Cena at WrestleMania 41. His initial reign after taking the title from Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40 lasted 378 days, while his second reign spanned 159 days.
However, his popularity waned during his second championship run, as evidenced by only three title defenses—all against Drew McIntyre—and the eventual loss of the belt in the third defense. The underwhelming viewer ratings for SmackDown over recent months underscore the difficulty Rhodes faced in sustaining audience interest, which likely influenced management’s decision to remove him as champion. Triple H, responsible for booking decisions, may therefore be reluctant to reinstate Rhodes as champion this year.
Potential Extended Break for Cody Rhodes After WrestleMania 42
Cody Rhodes has maintained an active presence in WWE programming for the past several years, barring a significant pectoral injury that sidelined him for 7-8 months in 2022. Beyond that, his appearances have been consistent, with a brief hiatus following his WrestleMania 41 title loss before returning on the May 25, 2025, edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event.
Given the physical and mental demands of holding the WWE Championship, Rhodes is likely in need of rest. Because champions must be constantly prepared for tough competition and promotional duties, the WWE management might choose to withhold the title from him throughout 2026, possibly allowing him downtime after WrestleMania 42 to recuperate.
Roman Reigns Expected to Reclaim the Championship Spotlight
The most compelling factor limiting Cody Rhodes’ chances of regaining the Undisputed WWE Championship is Roman Reigns’ anticipated return to title contention. Reigns dominated the championship scene for nearly four years from 2020 to 2024, leading the popular heel faction, the OG Bloodline, during a highly successful run for WWE.
Rumors suggest Reigns has delayed Hollywood ventures to pursue another reign as champion. Many insiders are backing him to win the men’s Royal Rumble 2026, setting up a match against current champion Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42. As McIntyre holds the title going into the Rumble, the plan appears to be keeping him champion until WrestleMania before handing the championship over to Reigns.
Once Reigns resumes as champion, he is expected to retain the title for an extended period, which complicates any prospects Cody Rhodes might have for reclaiming the championship following WrestleMania. This scenario points toward a potential lengthy absence from the title scene for Rhodes after his recent loss.
The developments around Drew McIntyre’s current reign, Roman Reigns’ projected return, and audience reception all indicate significant shifts in WWE’s championship landscape in 2026. Cody Rhodes’ future as WWE Champion seems uncertain, making this a critical year that could redefine his career trajectory.
