Big Update On Cody Rhodes’ WWE Character After Randy Orton’s Heel Turn

Randy Orton recently turned heel on Cody Rhodes.

Orton won the men’s WWE Elimination Chamber match and punched his ticket to WrestleMania 42 for a world title opportunity. Then, Rhodes defeated Drew McIntyre to become the new Undisputed WWE Champion. This officially set the WrestleMania match between Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton for the title.

On the March 13, 2026, episode of WWE Friday Night SmackDown, Rhodes and Orton held a contract signing segment. Since both stars were babyfaces, WWE had to add more drama to the storyline by turning one of them heel.

Both Rhodes and Orton had been teasing a possible heel turn for some time, and on that night, it was Orton who finally snapped. During the segment, the two shared a moment of mutual respect. Rhodes stated that he would always love Orton regardless of the match outcome, and the two even shook hands.

However, immediately afterward, Orton attacked Cody Rhodes and smashed his face into the signing table. The Viper then delivered a low blow, ripped off Rhodes’ shirt, and busted him open using the steel steps.

During the chaotic moment, Orton even shoved SmackDown GM Nick Aldis and guest celebrity Jelly Roll. The segment ended with Orton delivering a brutal steel chair shot while Rhodes’ head was placed on the steel steps, officially cementing his heel turn.

Cody Rhodes Doesn’t Want To Turn Heel

Many fans were excited about Orton’s heel turn. However, some viewers felt the moment was not fully satisfying because they wanted Rhodes to turn heel instead.

According to BodySlam.net reporter Cory Hays, the reason Rhodes did not turn heel is because he reportedly does not want to turn heel.

Cory tweeted on X, “Cody does not want to ever turn heel”

Absolutely speechless… pic.twitter.com/9f2aTl3P9I

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2026

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