New details have emerged regarding the long-term planning for the WrestleMania 42 main event scene. Following a report from PWInsider stating that Cody Rhodes versus Randy Orton is the active direction for WrestleMania, a new update from Fightful Select has confirmed that these discussions have been ongoing for a significant period. While the path to this match once seemed unclear, WWE sources indicate that the foundation was laid as early as January.
According to Fightful, both Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton were aware of the creative pitch for their WrestleMania encounter as early as January. While the title landscape has shifted considerably over the last two months, with Drew McIntyre winning the title, the two superstars have reportedly been working with this specific destination in mind.
The report also shed light on the creative decision to have Cody Rhodes drop the Undisputed WWE Championship earlier this year. Sources indicate that the title change was not a reflection of Rhodes’ standing, but rather a strategic move to allow him to participate in the Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber matches. By having the “American Nightmare” compete in these bouts, WWE looked to add significant drawing power to those specific premium live events.
While Orton vs. Rhodes remained the plan as of last month, the report cautions that WWE creative remains in a state of flux. With several weeks still remaining until the event at Allegiant Stadium, the “flux” of the current landscape means that directions could still shift.
As WrestleMania 42 approaches on April 18 and 19, the spotlight remains on Friday Night SmackDown, where Cody Rhodes is set to challenge Drew McIntyre for the championship. If the reported plans hold true, a victory for Rhodes this Friday would officially set the stage for his clash with the Viper.
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