Cody Rhodes Wins the WWE Championship Again… But Is He Just a Transitional Champion for Randy Orton at WrestleMania?
Cody Rhodes Wins WWE Championship Again — But Could Lose to Randy Orton at WrestleMania
By David Potter | March 7, 2026
Cody Rhodes has once again climbed to the top of WWE, capturing the prestigious WWE Championship and reigniting his emotional journey to “finish the story.” The victory marks another milestone for Rhodes, who returned to WWE with the mission of accomplishing what his legendary father, Dusty Rhodes, never achieved — winning the company’s top prize.
However, as the road to WrestleMania begins to unfold, speculation within the wrestling world suggests Rhodes’ championship reign may not last long. Some believe Rhodes could ultimately serve as a transitional champion, potentially dropping the title to Randy Orton on WWE’s biggest stage.
The Possible WrestleMania Plan
A potential showdown between Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton at WrestleMania would carry deep historical significance. The two stars share a long history dating back to their time together in the Legacy faction, where Orton mentored Rhodes early in his career.
A WrestleMania championship clash between the former allies would give WWE a powerful storyline filled with nostalgia, betrayal, and generational symbolism.
Reasons WWE Could Book Randy Orton to Win
1. A Full-Circle Storyline
WWE has often leaned on long-term storytelling, and the history between Orton and Rhodes presents a compelling narrative. Orton defeating his former protégé for the WWE Championship would bring their relationship full circle.
2. Randy Orton’s Legendary Status
Randy Orton is widely regarded as one of the greatest WWE superstars of all time. A WrestleMania championship victory would add another iconic moment to his historic career and potentially move him closer to tying or breaking the all-time world title record.
3. The WrestleMania “Moment” Factor
WrestleMania has long been built around unforgettable moments. WWE may see an Orton title win as a major headline moment that would resonate with longtime fans.