{"id":159111,"date":"2026-04-17T23:53:30","date_gmt":"2026-04-18T03:53:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/prowrestling\/?p=159111"},"modified":"2026-04-17T23:53:30","modified_gmt":"2026-04-18T03:53:30","slug":"how-cody-rhodes-vs-randy-orton-at-wrestlemania-42-could-end","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/prowrestling\/2026\/04\/17\/how-cody-rhodes-vs-randy-orton-at-wrestlemania-42-could-end\/","title":{"rendered":"How Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42 Could End"},"content":{"rendered":"

We’re days away from WrestleMania 42. The two-night extravaganza has a star-studded match card that looks phenomenal on paper. However, the build has been lackluster. and underwhelming, as suggested by disappointing<\/a> ticket sales. Despite criticism and low numbers, Mania 42 could turn out to be a spectacular show.<\/p>\n

Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton<\/a>, with Pat McAfee, will headline WrestleMania Saturday. With nearly two decades of mutual history and the WWE Title on the line, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. Unfortunately, the build has been heavily criticized. McAfee’s involvement made little sense, and Jelly Roll’s inclusion in the storyline has also proven controversial.<\/p>\n

Nonetheless, both Rhodes and Orton are among the best WWE has to offer. Their match at Mania will definitely be great. However, the outcome is genuinely unpredictable, adding some much-needed intrigue. On that note, let’s look at 4 finishes for Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton at WrestleMania Saturday.<\/p>\n

#4. Pat McAfee Helps Randy Orton Win the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42<\/strong><\/h2>\n

When Pat McAfee was revealed<\/a> as the mystery caller on Randy Orton’s phone, the WWE Universe was upset. Despite the fan response, McAfee continues to remain a focal part of the storyline. The former punter has announced that he would leave the company if Orton loses at Mania.<\/p>\n

Given that the angle just started, it doesn’t appear as if the Rhodes and saga, with McAfee in the mix, will end at the Show of Shows. Furthermore, there are rumors that Rhodes is teaming up<\/a> with Jelly Roll to face the duo of Orton and McAfee at Backlash. Hence, it wouldn’t be wise to bet against Orton.<\/p>\n

However, the most likely scenario would feature a dirty finish. McAfee has a vision of bringing WWE back to its glory days, with the Apex Predator atop the mountain. He has also shown that he would do anything to accomplish his goal. Therefore, the former color commentator could be the game-changer in Rhodes vs. Orton, costing the American Nightmare the top prize.<\/p>\n

Since he’d be accompanying Orton to the ring, fans shouldn’t expect him to pull off a Travis Scott interference. Nonetheless, McAfee could distract the referee or blast Rhodes behind the official’s back to help Orton win the WWE Title.<\/p>\n