A Hell in a Cell match was initially considered for WrestleMania 42, with a proposed bout between Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship inside the iconic steel structure. However, WWE ultimately changed its creative direction, and those plans were abandoned.
Changes to WrestleMania 42 Match Lineup
Instead of the Hell in a Cell encounter, Rhodes is now scheduled to face Randy Orton in a standard match for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42. McIntyre is set to compete in a separate match against Jacob Fatu. The event will take place on April 18 and 19 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, NV.
Historical Context of Hell in a Cell Matches at WrestleMania
Had the match proceeded, it would have marked the fifth Hell in a Cell contest in WrestleMania history and only the second one without the participation of The Undertaker. Both Rhodes and McIntyre have previous experience inside Hell in a Cell matches; Rhodes faced Seth Rollins, and McIntyre battled CM Punk in that match type.
Recent Championship Rivalry Between Rhodes and McIntyre
The rivalry between Rhodes and McIntyre has been intense, featuring multiple high-stakes matches. In January, McIntyre took the Undisputed WWE Championship from Rhodes in a Three Stages of Hell match that culminated inside a steel cage. More recently, Rhodes recaptured the title on SmackDown, defeating McIntyre in the main event, setting up his WrestleMania 42 bout with Orton.
Significance of the Updated WrestleMania 42 Card
The decision to forgo the Hell in a Cell stipulation influences the overall narrative and dynamics of WrestleMania 42, shifting focus toward fresh storylines such as Rhodes vs. Orton and McIntyre vs. Fatu. These changes may affect fans’ expectations for high-risk matches, but they also open new possibilities for compelling encounters during the two-day event at Allegiant Stadium.
