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Rhodes retains title after intense WrestleMania 42 main event

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Las Vegas — Cody Rhodes defeated Randy Orton to retain the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42 at Allegiant Stadium on Saturday night, in a match that began with Pat McAfee accompanying Orton and striking Rhodes with a microphone. Rhodes cleared McAfee from ringside, placed him on the announce table and allowed Jelly Roll to hit an elbow drop; McAfee was then carried out on a stretcher. After the match finally began, Rhodes worked Orton’s back for much of the bout while the two traded blows and countered finishers, including multiple RKO and Cross Rhodes exchanges. A bled-open Orton and a referee knocked out by an RKO contributed to chaotic late moments, with McAfee momentarily returning to count a near fall before Orton RKO’d him. Rhodes ultimately hit the Cross Rhodes and pinned Orton, but Orton seized the title post-match, struck Rhodes with the belt and finished the night with a punt to Rhodes' head.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Pre-match: Pat McAfee accompanies Randy Orton and is involved in a ringside altercation.
Early match: Orton controls early phases while Rhodes targets Orton's back.
Mid/late match: Both men exchange finishers; Rhodes secures the victory to retain the title.
Post-match: Orton strikes Rhodes with the belt and delivers a punt kick.
Aftermath: WWE medical staff examines Rhodes, and WWE posts about a swollen left eye.

Why This Matters to You

This match was more than just entertainment. It's a testament to the resilience and determination of these athletes. If you're a wrestling fan, you'll appreciate the intense competition and the unexpected twists. It's a reminder that in sports, anything can happen. Check out the WWE website for match highlights.

The Bottom Line

Cody Rhodes retained his title in a match that was as chaotic as it was thrilling. But the drama didn't end with the final bell. The post-match antics of Randy Orton have left fans buzzing. Worth forwarding if you know someone who loves a good wrestling drama.