The WWE universe witnessed a seismic shift in power on the latest episode of SmackDown, as Cody Rhodes emerged victorious to claim the WWE SmackDown Championship from current titleholder, Kevin Owens. However, in a stunning turn of events, the newly minted champion found himself on the receiving end of a fierce warning from none other than Randy Orton.
In a fiery post-match promo, Randy Orton unleashed a scathing verbal assault on the new champion, proclaiming that Cody Rhodes will not be allowed to bask in the glory of his championship reign without facing the wrath of The Viper. With an air of menace, Orton asserted that he will be the one to bring Rhodes back down to earth and claim the SmackDown Championship for himself.
The Build-Up to the Main Event
The build-up to the SmackDown main event between Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens had been one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the year. With Rhodes riding high on a series of impressive victories, it seemed only a matter of time before he would finally capture the SmackDown Championship. However, Owens had other plans, and the two men clashed in a hard-hitting, back-and-forth contest that had the Moda Center crowd on the edge of their seats.
Randy Orton’s Post-Match Warning
As Cody Rhodes celebrated his long-awaited championship victory, Randy Orton appeared on the scene, his eyes fixed intently on the new champion. In a chilling display of confidence, Orton declared that Rhodes would soon find himself facing a far more formidable foe in the form of The Viper.
“I’ve been watching Rhodes for a while now, and I must say, I’m not impressed,” Orton stated, his voice dripping with venom. “He thinks he’s got what it takes to be a champion? Newsflash, Rhodes: you don’t have what it takes to be in my league. And I’m the only one who can bring you back down to earth.”
According to a WWE insider, Orton’s post-match warning was more than just a routine promo. “Randy’s been feeling like he’s been overlooked for far too long,” the source revealed. “With Cody Rhodes claiming the SmackDown Championship, Orton sees an opportunity to insert himself back into the title picture and prove that he’s still a force to be reckoned with.”
The Road Ahead for Cody Rhodes
As Cody Rhodes basks in the glory of his championship victory, he will undoubtedly have his eyes fixed on the horizon, with Randy Orton looming large in his rearview mirror. With the likes of Orton, Roman Reigns, and other top stars waiting in the wings, it remains to be seen how long Rhodes will be able to enjoy his time at the top.
“I think Cody’s got a lot to learn about being a champion,” said WWE Hall of Famer, Mick Foley, in a recent interview. “He’s got the talent, no question, but the real question is whether he’s got the mental toughness to withstand the pressure of being a top champion. We’ll see how he handles the heat when Randy Orton comes calling.”
The Stage is Set for a Showdown
As the dust settles on the latest episode of SmackDown, one thing is clear: the stage is set for a showdown for the ages between Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes. With the SmackDown Championship hanging precariously in the balance, one can only imagine the fireworks that will erupt when these two titans clash.
In the words of Cody Rhodes himself, “I’m not worried about Randy Orton. I’m worried about living up to my own potential. And if Randy Orton wants a piece of me, he’s going to have to get through me first.”
The gauntlet has been thrown. The question now is: will Randy Orton accept the challenge? Only time will tell.
Author: [Your Name]
Publication: WWE Insider
Date: March 7, 2026
Category: WWE News, WWE SmackDown, Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes