Recent developments indicate a surprising adjustment to the Undisputed WWE Championship bout at WrestleMania 42, set for April 18 and 19 at Allegiant Stadium. Randy Orton, having triumphed in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match, is now slated to challenge Cody Rhodes for the title, shifting the focus away from the previously anticipated Drew McIntyre confrontation. Rhodes is scheduled to face McIntyre on the current episode of SmackDown as part of this evolving storyline.
Background Behind the Match Shift
The idea to feature an Orton versus Rhodes clash began circulating in early February, according to sources from Bodyslam.net. This change aims to inject fresh energy into WrestleMania’s title scene, while also serving as a culmination to the ongoing tension and teases between the two former Legacy teammates. Despite these long-term plans, both Rhodes and McIntyre learned about the official realignment only in the past week, reflecting recent backstage communication.
Possible Plans for Drew McIntyre Post-Title Picture
With the championship storyline redirected, Drew McIntyre is reportedly scheduled to face Jacob Fatu at WrestleMania 42. This pairing marks a significant event for McIntyre, who is due to begin filming for the Highlander reboot soon after WrestleMania. Some speculation suggests McIntyre might be reinserted into the title picture as part of a triple threat match, or even face General Manager Adam Pearce, but the match against Fatu remains the primary creative direction at this stage.
What to Expect as WrestleMania Approaches
As the event nears, attention is focused on whether Cody Rhodes can secure the championship by defeating Drew McIntyre on SmackDown, setting up his title match against Randy Orton. This storyline adjustment not only reconfigures the championship trajectory but also promises to highlight the longstanding rivalry and dynamic between Rhodes and Orton. Fans and insiders alike are monitoring these developments closely as WrestleMania 42 unfolds.
