WrestleMania 42: Cody Rhodes Keeps WWE Title, Other Titles Change Hands

Cody Rhodes successfully defended his Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42 on April 18, 2026. Several other major titles were also won by new wrestlers.
By Newsroom | Sports, Wrestling |

Rhodes Holds Undisputed WWE Championship Amidst Shifting Titles

Cody Rhodes has maintained his grip on the Undisputed WWE Championship, successfully defending it against Randy Orton during the main event of WrestleMania 42's opening night. The hard-fought contest saw Rhodes deliver his signature "Cross Rhodes" maneuver, but Orton's resilience prolonged the bout. The championship match concluded with Rhodes retaining his title, though reports suggest Orton's reaction to the loss was less than gracious.

The night, which transpired on April 18, 2026, was marked by significant shifts across other divisions. The Women's World Championship, Women's Intercontinental Championship, and WWE Women's Tag Team Championship all changed hands.

Notable Title Changes and Returns

  • Stephanie Vaquer claimed the Women's World Championship.

  • AJ Lee captured the Women's Intercontinental Championship.

  • In a noteworthy return, Paige, participating in her first WWE match in eight years, teamed with Brie Bella to secure the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship.

The event's opening segment featured a six-man tag team match that included popular performers The Usos and internet personality IShowSpeed. Another highlight was Gunther's victory over Drew McIntyre for a title.

The narrative of the night also included a segment involving Pat McAfee, who appeared to be involved in a confrontation with IShowSpeed, reportedly ending with McAfee incapacitating the streamer.

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Broader Context of WrestleMania 42

WrestleMania 42, held over two nights, presented a spectrum of wrestling events. Night One, specifically, served as a platform for significant championship alterations and high-profile returns, encapsulating a wide range of fan expectations - from championship drama to unexpected personal announcements. The event, in its entirety, aimed to deliver a varied spectacle, encompassing title changes, intense matches, and surprise appearances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who won the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42 on April 18, 2026?
Cody Rhodes kept his Undisputed WWE Championship after beating Randy Orton in the main event of WrestleMania 42's first night on April 18, 2026. The match was very close, but Rhodes won.
Q: What other championship titles changed hands at WrestleMania 42 on April 18, 2026?
Yes, several other titles changed hands on April 18, 2026. Stephanie Vaquer won the Women's World Championship, AJ Lee won the Women's Intercontinental Championship, and Paige and Brie Bella won the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship.
Q: Did Paige return to wrestling at WrestleMania 42 on April 18, 2026?
Yes, Paige made a return to WWE at WrestleMania 42 on April 18, 2026. It was her first match in eight years. She teamed with Brie Bella to win the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship.
Q: Who won the title match between Gunther and Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42?
Gunther won a title against Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42. The exact date of this match was April 18, 2026, which was the first night of the event. Gunther is now the champion.