Three directions for Cody Rhodes on his return on WWE SmackDown tonight (March 27, 2026)
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The American Nightmare was viciously assaulted by Randy Orton.
‘The American Nightmare’ Cody Rhodes is set to defend the Undisputed title against Randy Orton, who won the men’s Elimination Chamber to secure the shot at WrestleMania 42. Before the scheduled clash, the two stars signed the contract on the March 13 edition of SmackDown.
However, the signing ended unceremoniously as Orton suddenly launched a vicious assault on Cody, leaving him battered and bloodied. After the beatdown, Rhodes was absent from last week’s show.
However, Rhodes is currently being advertised for tonight’s SmackDown, which will emanate from PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Let us now take a look at three directions for the Undisputed Champion on tonight’s show.
3. Recruit Matt Cardona
In Cody’s absence, Randy Orton continued to create havoc, attacking Matt Cardona after an argument backstage. Rhodes can form an alliance with Cardona and retaliate, taking down the Viper.
The attack would continue the storyline if WWE has any plans for Orton to revive the iconic faction ‘Evolution.’
Also Read: WWE SmackDown (March 27, 2026): Preview, match card, news, timings & telecast details
2. Announce a major stipulation
Another direction for Rhodes upon his return could be announcing a major stipulation for the Undisputed title clash. Reports have already hinted at the inclusion of gimmick matches at the WrestleMania PLE, and this championship bout could end up being one of them.
A no-holds-barred match, street fight, or even last man standing match will further raise the stakes, making the PLE a night to remember for fans.
1. Retaliate against Randy with brutal force
One of the most impactful ways for Cody Rhodes to make his return and immediately put Randy Orton on notice would be to strike back with authority, launching a fierce, no-holds-barred assault on The Viper and sending a clear message that he’s not backing down.
Reports have hinted at Cody adopting a more aggressive, edgier “fight fire with fire” character to counter Orton, and fans might witness a new Cody in Pittsburgh.
What time does WWE SmackDown start this week?
This week’s WWE SmackDown begins at 8 PM ET / 7 PM CT / 5 PM PT in the United States on Friday night. International viewers can tune in at 1 AM GMT (UK & Ireland), 5:30 AM IST (India), 10 AM AEST (Australia), and 2 AM CET (Germany/France) on Saturday, depending on their region.
Where can fans watch WWE SmackDown live?
In the United States, SmackDown airs on the USA Network. Most international audiences can stream the show on Netflix. At the same time, fans in India can watch on Sony LIV, Bangladesh on Sony Sports Network, China on iQIYI, and Nigeria and South Africa on SuperSport & Showmax.
Where and when does WWE SmackDown take place on March 27, 2026?
The March 27 episode of Friday Night SmackDown takes place at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The show begins at 8 PM ET on the USA Network in the United States, and is available on Netflix for international viewers, with a local time of 7:30 PM local time.
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Abhijit Singh is a budding sports journalist with over three years of experience in the field, and a photographer capturing stories through his lens since 2018. With a background in philosophy and political science, he brings a thoughtful, analytical edge to his reporting where every word is guided by curiosity and intent. Whether he's capturing the emotion of a moment or unpacking the deeper narratives within the game, Abhijit’s work is rooted in insight and passion. When he’s not covering sports, he’s often exploring new ideas through reading, traveling or just procrastinating.