Cody Rhodes reclaiming WWE Championship from Drew McIntyre on SmackDown becomes most disliked WWE video in 2026
(Courtesy : WWE)
Cody Rhodes will now defend his title against Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42.
Cody Rhodes reclaimed the Undisputed WWE Championship on the March 6 episode of WWE SmackDown in Portland, Oregon, but the moment has generated an unexpected reaction online.
The highlight clip of Rhodes defeating Drew McIntyre has become WWE’s most disliked YouTube video of 2026 so far.
According to the current metrics at the time of writing on WWE’s official YouTube channel, the video has received more than 58,000 dislikes compared to around 18,000 likes, reflecting a strong wave of backlash from viewers.
Despite the negative reception online, the victory itself dramatically reshaped the WrestleMania 42 title picture.
Chaos-filled finish leads to Cody Rhodes’ title victory
The SmackDown main event delivered a physical back-and-forth contest between Rhodes and McIntyre. Both men traded momentum throughout the match as the Undisputed WWE Championship hung in the balance.
As the bout reached its closing stages, the action descended into chaos. Two separate referees were accidentally knocked down, leaving the match without an official during a crucial moment.
Sensing an opportunity, McIntyre attempted to use a steel chair to maintain control of the championship. However, the situation changed when Jacob Fatu unexpectedly appeared and prevented McIntyre from using the weapon.
The distraction gave Rhodes the opening he needed. “The American Nightmare” quickly capitalized, delivering a Cody Cutter followed by the Cross Rhodes to score the three-count and capture his third world championship.
Also Read: How many days was Drew McIntyre’s WWE Championship reign before losing to Cody Rhodes?
Why are fans reacting negatively?
While the match itself was competitive, the online reaction suggests that a portion of the fanbase was unhappy with the result.
Some fans have compared Rhodes’ current character to the infamous “Super Cena” era, arguing that his booking has become too predictable.
The criticism largely centers around the perception that Rhodes’ victories feel inevitable. Another factor behind the backlash is the support many viewers had for McIntyre.
The Scottish Warrior had previously ended Rhodes’ 159-day second championship reign earlier this year at Saturday Night’s Main Event XLI.
McIntyre’s recent victory in the Three Stages of Hell match had also convinced many fans he deserved a longer run as champion. The finish of the SmackDown match also drew criticism.
Jacob Fatu’s involvement marked the second time he has directly influenced a change in the Undisputed WWE Championship, which some fans felt weakened the result.
WrestleMania 42 Night 1 main event now set
Despite the online criticism, Cody Rhodes’ victory solidified the direction for WrestleMania 42. The new champion is now set to defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Randy Orton.
Orton earned the opportunity after winning the 2026 Men’s Elimination Chamber match. The rivalry already carries tension.
After the Chamber event, Orton struck Rhodes with an RKO, setting the stage for a personal showdown between former mentor and protege. With the championship now back around Rhodes’ waist, their clash at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas could determine the next face of WWE.
Why is Cody Rhodes’ title win video being disliked?
Many fans were hoping Drew McIntyre would remain champion heading into WrestleMania, while others have criticized Rhodes’ booking as too predictable.
How did Cody Rhodes defeat Drew McIntyre on SmackDown?
Rhodes won after Jacob Fatu stopped McIntyre from using a steel chair, allowing Rhodes to hit a Cody Cutter and Cross Rhodes for the pinfall.
Who will Cody Rhodes face at WrestleMania 42?
Rhodes is expected to defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Randy Orton, the winner of the 2026 Men’s Elimination Chamber match.
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