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Cody Rhodes Reclaims WWE Title, Faces Orton at WrestleMania

3/7/2026

26 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Cody Rhodes reclaimed the Undisputed WWE Championship from Drew McIntyre on March 6, 2026, during WWE SmackDown.
The title change followed McIntyre's interference in Rhodes' Elimination Chamber match, which led to Randy Orton winning the No. 1 contender spot.
Rhodes won with a Super Cutter and a Cross Rhodes after a back-and-forth bout.
As a result, Rhodes will defend the title against Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42.

History

Historical Context

Hulk Hogan's 1984 WWE Championship victory marked a turning point for professional wrestling, propelling the WWF into mainstream popularity and boosting revenues by over 50%. This era, characterized by Hogan's "Hulkamania," laid the groundwork for future stars like Cody Rhodes, whose recent title win against Drew McIntyre reflects the lasting impact of championship rivalries in wrestling storytelling.

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Story summary

Cody Rhodes reclaimed the Undisputed WWE Championship from Drew McIntyre on March 6, 2026, during WWE SmackDown.
The title change followed McIntyre's interference in Rhodes' Elimination Chamber match, which led to Randy Orton winning the No. 1 contender spot.
Rhodes won with a Super Cutter and a Cross Rhodes after a back-and-forth bout.
As a result, Rhodes will defend the title against Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42.

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