Summary

During the March 13, 2026 SmackDown contract signing for WrestleMania 42, Randy Orton attacked Cody Rhodes immediately after signing the match agreement.

The source text says Cody reflected on his history with Orton, called himself proud to be "Orton's boy," and signed first.

Orton initially delayed signing, then agreed, shook Cody's hand, and launched a post-signing assault.

The attack included smashing Cody into the table, using steel steps, and striking him with a chair after placing his head on the steps.

The segment also included Orton shoving Nick Aldis and Jelly Roll.

Randy Orton's heel turn radically changes the Cody Rhodes WrestleMania build

Randy Orton turning on Cody Rhodes at the contract signing creates a concrete consequence, the WrestleMania 42 match now shifts from legacy respect to a violent personal feud.

With this happening at the same segment that was promoted as a key SmackDown contract signing, WWE has a clear escalation point to anchor the next phase of their WrestleMania story.

Quotes

Quote from Cody Rhodes

"Orton’s boy"

Cody Rhodes later went on to say:

"Legend Killer"

Sources

As reported by NoDQ.