The landscape of WWE’s SmackDown brand has undergone significant changes in recent weeks, and last night’s episode from the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon, was no exception. Amidst a thrilling main event that saw Cody Rhodes claim the SmackDown Championship from the reigning champion, Drew McIntyre, a familiar face emerged with a strong statement of intent. Randy Orton, one of the most accomplished superstars in the company, wasted no time responding to the sudden title change.
The Viper Strikes Back
In an intense segment that aired on the March 6, 2026 episode of SmackDown, Randy Orton delivered a scathing message to Cody Rhodes, signaling his intentions to challenge for the SmackDown Championship. The 14-time world champion’s words were laced with venom, as he accused Rhodes of stealing the title from the rightful champion.
“Last night, I watched as you claimed the SmackDown Championship, Cody. But let me tell you something, you didn’t earn it. You didn’t work for it. You stole it from Drew McIntyre, and that’s not something you can just sweep under the rug,” Orton said, his voice dripping with disdain.
According to a WWE insider, Orton’s reaction was not entirely unexpected. “Randy has been waiting for an opportunity to strike, and with Cody’s sudden rise to prominence, he saw the perfect chance to insert himself back into the title picture,” the source revealed.
Cody Rhodes’ Response
Cody Rhodes has been on a tear since his return to the WWE, and his SmackDown Championship win was the culmination of months of hard work and dedication. When asked about Orton’s comments, Rhodes remained confident in his title reign.
“I’m not going to get bogged down by Randy Orton’s words. I’m the champion, and I earned it. I’m not going to let anyone, including Randy, take that away from me,” Rhodes said in an exclusive interview.
Sources close to Cody Rhodes reveal that the champion is well aware of the challenges that lie ahead. “Cody knows that Randy Orton is a force to be reckoned with, and he’s preparing himself for the inevitable showdown,” the source revealed.
The Battle for SmackDown Supremacy
The stage is set for a thrilling SmackDown Championship feud, with Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes locked in a battle for supremacy. The question on everyone’s mind is: will Orton be able to dethrone the champion, or will Rhodes prove himself to be the superior competitor?
One thing is certain – the WWE universe will be watching with bated breath as these two superstars clash in the coming weeks. With their rich history and unmatched talent, the possibilities are endless, and the outcome is far from certain.
WWE’s Plans for the SmackDown Championship
According to WWE officials, the SmackDown Championship is set to play a pivotal role in the company’s upcoming storylines. “We’re looking at a number of potential match-ups for the SmackDown Championship, and Randy Orton vs. Cody Rhodes is just one of the many possibilities we’re exploring,” a WWE spokesperson revealed.
The WWE’s plans for the SmackDown Championship are a closely guarded secret, but one thing is certain – the title will be the focal point of the company’s upcoming storylines. With the likes of Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Drew McIntyre vying for the top spot, the competition is sure to be fierce.
Conclusion
The SmackDown Championship is the most coveted prize in the WWE, and last night’s episode from the Moda Center saw Cody Rhodes claim the title in a thrilling main event. Randy Orton’s response was swift and decisive, and the stage is set for a thrilling feud between these two superstars.
As the WWE universe looks ahead to the coming weeks, one thing is certain – the battle for SmackDown supremacy will be a war for the ages. With their unmatched talent and rich history, Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes are set to deliver a championship showdown that will leave fans on the edge of their seats.
The question on everyone’s mind is: who will emerge victorious? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the WWE universe will be watching with bated breath as these two superstars clash in the coming weeks.