Cody Rhodes’ Backstage Role In WWE WrestleMania 42 Booking Revealed

Cody Rhodes is a big player in WWE today.

Since returning to the Stamford-based promotion in 2022, Rhodes has been portrayed as one of the faces of the company. He is also the current Undisputed WWE Champion in his third reign.

The 40-year-old was recently named Randy Orton’s new opponent at WrestleMania 42 after he beat Drew McIntyre to win the championship on March 6.

To many fans, Orton winning the Elimination Chamber match by pinning Rhodes came as a surprise. But this may have something to do with The American Nightmare’s backstage influence.

During a recent episode of Self Made Sessions, Self Made Pro revealed that Rhodes campaigned for The Viper to be featured at WrestleMania against him.

Cody Rhodes knew that that was the match that was happening for a while. Cody Rhodes, as early as February, knew he was facing Randy. And I can tell you that Cody Rhodes did push for Randy because he believed that was a big-time matchup. [H/T: Ringside News]

What Was The Original Match Planned For Cody Rhodes At WrestleMania?

Cody Rhodes may be facing Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42 for the Undisputed WWE Championship, but that’s not what was initially pitched.

According to a report by PWInsider, WWE wished for Rhodes’s rivalry to continue with Drew McIntyre, with the Scotsman defending his title inside a Hell in a Cell.

The last time a Hell in a Cell match took place at WrestleMania was in 2023 when Edge defeated ‘The Demon’ Finn Balor.

In addition to Cody Rhodes’ title defense, three other championship matches have been finalized for the Show of Shows on April 18 & 19.

Stephanie Vaquer will defend the Women’s World Championship against Liv Morgan, whereas Rhea Ripley will challenge Jade Cargill for the WWE Women’s Championship.

Also, CM Punk will defend the World Heavyweight Championship against Roman Reigns.