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WrestleMania 42: Rhodes Faces Orton in Title Match Shift

3/10/2026

43 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

WWE WrestleMania 42 shifted its main event from a Hell in a Cell match between Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes to a Rhodes-versus-Orton singles match for the Undisputed WWE Championship.
The change leverages Rhodes and Orton's history from the Legacy faction.
Drew McIntyre, who recently lost the title to Rhodes, is expected to face Jacob Fatu at the April 18–19, 2026, Las Vegas event at Allegiant Stadium.

History

Historical Context

WrestleMania XXVI, held on March 28, 2010, at the University of Phoenix Stadium, marked a significant moment in wrestling history as The Undertaker defeated Shawn Michaels, extending his undefeated WrestleMania streak to 18-0. This event attracted over 72,000 fans and showcased WWE's evolving storytelling, exemplified by the shift to a Rhodes-versus-Orton match at WrestleMania 42, reflecting ongoing narrative strategies.

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Story summary

WWE WrestleMania 42 shifted its main event from a Hell in a Cell match between Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes to a Rhodes-versus-Orton singles match for the Undisputed WWE Championship.
The change leverages Rhodes and Orton's history from the Legacy faction.
Drew McIntyre, who recently lost the title to Rhodes, is expected to face Jacob Fatu at the April 18–19, 2026, Las Vegas event at Allegiant Stadium.

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