Randy Orton Turns on Cody Rhodes – The road to WrestleMania 42 took a dramatic turn on the March 13 episode of WWE SmackDown when Randy Orton viciously attacked Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes during their contract signing segment.

Orton earned the WrestleMania title opportunity after winning the Men’s Elimination Chamber match. At the time, Drew McIntyre was the Undisputed WWE Champion. However, just one week later on SmackDown, Rhodes defeated McIntyre to reclaim the title, setting up the championship clash between Rhodes and Orton on the grand stage.

The contract signing segment initially began in a respectful tone. Both men reflected on their long history together, emphasizing the friendship that had developed between them over the years.

Rhodes spoke emotionally about their relationship and acknowledged the significance of facing Orton at WrestleMania. He said that regardless of what happens once the match begins, his respect and love for Orton would remain.

Both competitors then signed the contract, seemingly confirming the match without incident.

However, the situation changed instantly once the paperwork was completed.

Without warning, Orton attacked Rhodes, slamming the champion’s head into the table before delivering a low blow. The assault quickly escalated as Orton dragged Rhodes out of the ring and used the steel steps to strike him across the shoulders.

The attack left Rhodes visibly busted open as Orton continued the brutal assault for several minutes.

Members of the WWE locker room eventually rushed to the ring in an attempt to stop the situation. Among those trying to calm things down was musician Jelly Roll, who was present during the segment.

Even that effort failed to stop Orton’s aggression. When Jelly Roll attempted to intervene, Orton shoved him aside and continued focusing on Rhodes.

Just when it appeared the chaos was finally coming to an end, Orton returned to the ring and delivered a brutal chair shot to Rhodes.

The segment concluded with Orton sitting in the ring on a chair while holding the Undisputed WWE Championship, sending a clear message ahead of WrestleMania 42.

The attack marks a major shift in the storyline between the two longtime allies and firmly establishes Orton as Rhodes’ most dangerous challenger heading into their championship match.

Randy Orton Turns on Cody Rhodes

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