Following earlier reports (SPOILER ALERT) that Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton is the current direction for WrestleMania 42, a new update from Fightful Select confirms that these talks have been going on for a long time. While the path to this match once seemed unclear, WWE sources say the foundation was laid as early as January.

According to the report, Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton were told about the creative pitch for their WrestleMania match back in January. Even though the title scene has changed over the last two months—with Drew McIntyre winning the championship—both stars have reportedly been working with this specific match in mind.

Fightful also explained the creative choice to have Cody Rhodes lose the Undisputed WWE Championship earlier this year. Sources say the title change was not about Rhodes’ standing in the company. Instead, it was a strategic move to let him compete in the Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber matches. By having the “American Nightmare” in those big matches, WWE hoped to draw more fans to those events.

While Orton vs. Rhodes was still the plan as of last month, the report warns that WWE creative can always change. With several weeks left before the event at Allegiant Stadium, the “flux” of the current situation means plans could still shift.

As WrestleMania 42 gets closer on April 18 and 19, the focus remains on Friday’s SmackDown. This week, Cody Rhodes will challenge Drew McIntyre for the championship. If the reported plans stay on track, a win for Rhodes this Friday would officially set up his big match against “The Viper.”

Big Update on Cody Rhodes vs Randy Orton Plans for WrestleMania 42

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