Cody Rhodes is a two-time Undisputed WWE Champion. The American Nightmare has been carrying the gold on his shoulder since recapturing it by beating John Cena at SummerSlam 2025 Night Two.
The Stamford-based promotion is gearing up to host the first premium live event of the year, Royal Rumble 2026. It will take place outside the United States of America at the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Rhodes will likely be on the show’s match card, given that he holds the most prestigious title in World Wrestling Entertainment currently.
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According to a report by pro wrestling journalist Andrew Baydala, Rhodes is slated to face his mentor and former Legacy stablemate, Randy Orton, at Royal Rumble 2026. They will reportedly lock horns for the Undisputed WWE Title at the event.
“Randy and Cody at the #RoyalRumble for the WWE Championship will be big business,” Baydala shared on his official X account.
Moreover, Baydala hinted that CM Punk’s opponent for the World Heavyweight Championship would make fans happy.
Check out his tweet below.
The Stamford-based promotion has already planted the seeds for Orton and Rhodes’ much-awaited feud. On the first episode of WWE SmackDown in 2026 last week, The Viper returned and made it clear to Rhodes that he was coming for his title during a backstage segment.
Cody Rhodes’ future as Undisputed WWE Champion is at risk ahead of Royal Rumble
Ahead of Royal Rumble 2026, The American Nightmare has to defend his Undisputed WWE Championship against his longtime rival, Drew McIntyre, in a Three Stages of Hell contest. They will square off on next week’s edition of Friday Night SmackDown.
McIntyre has been playing mind games with Rhodes and has gained a lot of momentum in recent weeks. Hence, The American Nightmare’s title reign might be at risk. That said, it will be interesting to see whether the champion retains his gold next week on the blue brand or Triple H has a huge upset planned before Royal Rumble.
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Edited by Pratik Singh
