Cody Rhodes’ recent victory over Drew McIntyre to claim the Undisputed WWE Championship on SmackDown has seemingly solidified his WrestleMania 42 opponent as Randy Orton. Although, the path to this matchup wasn’t always so clear. Reports indicate a significantly different, and arguably more brutal, encounter was initially planned.
From Hell in a Cell to Orton: A WrestleMania Shift
According to PWInsider Elite, the original creative direction for Rhodes and McIntyre at WrestleMania 42 centered around a Hell in a Cell match. This wasn’t a random choice; the stipulation was designed to acknowledge the significant physical toll both competitors have endured in past Hell in a Cell bouts. Rhodes previously competed in the match while suffering a torn pectoral muscle, and McIntyre has too experienced a punishing encounter within the structure.
Building on Past Rivalry
The proposed Hell in a Cell match was also intended to capitalize on the existing storyline between Rhodes and McIntyre, particularly their earlier cage match during a Three Stages of Hell match in January, where McIntyre secured a championship win. This history of intense competition provided a foundation for the heightened drama a Hell in a Cell match would offer.
Creative Changes and New Directions
WWE opted to change course. The decision to award the championship back to Rhodes before WrestleMania paved the way for a high-profile match against Orton. This shift also positioned McIntyre in a new feud with Jacob Fatu, whose interference played a role in McIntyre losing the title on SmackDown.
Roster Injuries and Flexible Planning
The change in plans wasn’t isolated. Reports suggest WWE has been adjusting several WrestleMania plans due to injuries within the roster. This highlights the company’s need for flexibility and adaptability when constructing its biggest event of the year.
Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio has echoed the expectation of Rhodes vs. Orton and McIntyre vs. Fatu at WrestleMania 42, though he cautioned that plans aren’t entirely finalized.
The Future of WrestleMania Card Construction
The evolving plans for WrestleMania 42 demonstrate a key trend in modern wrestling: the willingness to adapt based on unforeseen circumstances. Roster injuries, shifting fan reactions, and creative impulses can all necessitate changes, even at a late stage. This dynamic approach requires a deep bench of talent and a creative team capable of pivoting quickly.
Did you know? The Hell in a Cell structure debuted at Badd Blood in 1997 and has become synonymous with some of the most brutal and memorable matches in WWE history.
FAQ
Q: What was the original plan for Cody Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42?
A: The original plan was for them to compete inside the Hell in a Cell structure.
Q: Why did WWE change the WrestleMania plans?
A: WWE adjusted plans due to injuries across the roster and a desire to position Cody Rhodes for a match with Randy Orton.
Q: Who is Drew McIntyre now expected to face at WrestleMania 42?
A: Drew McIntyre is now expected to face Jacob Fatu.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on wrestling news outlets like PWInsider Elite and Wrestling Observer Radio for the latest updates on WrestleMania plans, as they often provide insights into the creative process.
What are your thoughts on the WrestleMania 42 card so far? Share your predictions in the comments below!
