The road to WrestleMania 42 got more interesting on the March 13, 2026, episode of WWE SmackDown when Randy Orton shocked everyone by attacking Cody Rhodes during what was supposed to be just a contract signing. The intensity of the moment can be felt more now as WWE has shared off-air footage showing what happened after the attack.
Last week, the match for the Undisputed WWE Championship was being made official, and both men came to the ring with Nick Aldis overseeing things. Rhodes signed the contract right away and even showed respect to Orton, thanking him for his influence on his career. He also said that he wanted Orton at his best.
But Orton didn’t look the same.
After signing, he shook Rhodes’ hand and then suddenly attacked him. What followed was a brutal beatdown.
Orton smashed Rhodes’ face into the table, hit a low blow, and threw him toward the announce area. He even used the steel steps, leaving Rhodes bleeding badly. Officials tried to stop him, but Orton kept going. Just when it looked like it was over, he came back with a chair and hit one final attack.
In the end, the Viper sat alone in the ring with the title on his lap, sending a strong message.
Now, WWE has shared footage of what happened after the show ended.
Randy Orton had left the stage by then. Rhodes was seen covered in blood, surrounded by the officials. His shirt was completely torn and soaked in blood.
He refused help, got up on his own, and walked away, still holding the championship. The crowd cheered him as he walked up the ramp.
WWE had to portray him as a babyface and gain sympathy from fans. But at the same time, he shouldn’t look weak.
Even though Rhodes was hurt, this could make him more dangerous. Now, this rivalry feels very personal. And at WrestleMania 42, Orton might have created a bigger problem for himself.
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