Cody Rhodes Reclaims WWE Championship on SmackDown

Samoan Werewolf Jacob Fatu's interference proves pivotal in Rhodes' title win over Drew McIntyre

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:11pm by

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a WWE championship match, with the wrestlers' bodies and the ring broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a dynamic, abstract composition.Cody Rhodes' WWE title victory over Drew McIntyre is captured in a cubist, geometric style, reflecting the dynamic and unpredictable nature of their championship clash.Portland Today

In a thrilling main event on WWE SmackDown in Portland, Oregon, Cody Rhodes defeated Drew McIntyre to reclaim the WWE Championship. The match featured the interference of Jacob Fatu, the 'Samoan Werewolf', whose actions proved crucial in Rhodes' victory. With the title back in his possession, Rhodes now sets his sights on defending it against his mentor-turned-rival, Randy Orton, at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas.

Why it matters

Rhodes' journey to reclaim the WWE Championship has captivated fans, as he looks to cement his legacy and solidify his place among the all-time greats. The involvement of Fatu adds an intriguing layer to the storyline, hinting at potential alliances and rivalries that could shape the road to the biggest event of the year.

The details

In the main event of SmackDown, Cody Rhodes faced off against Drew McIntyre in a highly anticipated rematch for the WWE Championship. The match took an unexpected turn when Jacob Fatu, known as the 'Samoan Werewolf', made his presence felt, interfering on behalf of Rhodes. Fatu's actions proved pivotal, as Rhodes was able to capitalize and regain the title he had lost earlier this year.

  • The main event match between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre took place on the April 10, 2026 episode of WWE SmackDown in Portland, Oregon.
  • Cody Rhodes is now set to defend the WWE Championship against Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas on April 27, 2026.

The players

Cody Rhodes

A three-time WWE Champion who has reclaimed the title after a previous loss, looking to cement his legacy at the top of the company.

Drew McIntyre

A former WWE Champion who was defeated by Rhodes in the main event, losing the title he had previously held.

Jacob Fatu

Also known as the 'Samoan Werewolf', Fatu is a rising star who made a pivotal interference in the main event, helping Rhodes regain the WWE Championship.

Randy Orton

A veteran of WrestleMania and a 14-time world champion, Orton is now set to challenge Rhodes for the WWE Championship at the upcoming 'Showcase of the Immortals'.

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What they’re saying

“I'm back on top, and I'm going to prove at WrestleMania that I'm the best in the world.”

— Cody Rhodes, WWE Champion

“Fatu's interference was unexpected, but I'll be ready to reclaim my title at the biggest stage of them all.”

— Drew McIntyre, Former WWE Champion

“Cody may have the title now, but I'm coming for it at WrestleMania. This is my chance to cement my legacy as one of the all-time greats.”

— Randy Orton

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Cody Rhodes' journey to reclaim the WWE Championship has captivated fans, and the involvement of Jacob Fatu adds an intriguing layer to the storyline. As Rhodes prepares to defend his title against Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42, the stage is set for a highly anticipated showdown between two of WWE's top stars.