Cody Rhodes is now WWE Champion for the third time in his career, and has booked his spot against Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas.
Taking place in the main event of the March 6 episode of SmackDown, The American Nightmare defeated Drew McIntyre to capture the top prize in the company. The match saw multiple referee bumps take place, with McIntyre intentionally knocking out the second referee when he was unable to secure the pin. McIntyre went to grab a steel chair, but was prevented from using it by Jacob Fatu. Capitalising on the interference, Rhodes hit McIntyre with a Cody Cutter and the Cross Rhodes to win the match and the title.
The defeat brings McIntyre’s title reign to an end at 56 days. McIntyre defeated Rhodes in a 3 Stages of Hell match back in January to win the title for the 3rd time in his career, and 4th World Championship overall. Fatu was once again a factor in the finish of this match, as he brawled with Rhodes to allow McIntyre to escape the steel cage, the final fall of the best of 3 stipulation.
Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton Confirmed For WrestleMania 42
Randy Orton secured his spot at WrestleMania after he was the last man standing in the Elimination Chamber. McIntyre interfered in the Chamber match by striking Rhodes with the title, but was attacked by Orton and Rhodes inside the structure. As McIntyre interfered in yet another Rhodes match, General Manager Nick Aldis forced McIntyre to defend his championship on the next episode of SmackDown.
Orton will be fighting for his 15th World Championship in Las Vegas in April.
Featured image: WWE
