Cody Rhodes will return on the March 27 episode of WWE SmackDown.
On the March 13 episode of the blue brand, Randy Orton met Cody Rhodes in the ring and they signed the contract for their Undisputed WWE Championship match at WrestleMania. Right off Orton signed the contract he turned on Cody as he slammed his head into the table then connected with a kick below the belt. The viper proceeded to bust Cody open by hitting him with the steel ring steps then followed up with a chair shot.
Rhodes was not present for the March 19 episode.
“After being viciously attacked by his former friend and WrestleMania challenger, Randy Orton, Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes is returning to SmackDown. How will The American Nightmare respond to the unspeakable betrayal by The Viper? Will he get payback en route to their title clash at The Showcase of the Immortals?”
The March 27, 2026, episode of WWE SmackDown will aired at the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Below is the updated lineup:
- Kit Wilson vs. Jelly Roll
- WWE Women’s United States Title: Giulia (c) vs. Tiffany Stratton
- Alexa Bliss & Charlotte Flair vs. The Bella Twins (Nikki & Brie Bella)
- Cody Rhodes returns
