Cody Rhodes’ WWE SmackDown Return Announced

Cody Rhodes is coming back. WWE has officially confirmed that the Undisputed WWE Champion will return on the March 27 episode of SmackDown, ending his absence following Randy Orton’s vicious attack on the March 13 show that left Rhodes bloodied and requiring medical attention.

Rhodes did not appear on the March 19 episode, but his return date is now locked in. Orton offered a glimpse into his mindset during his March 16 Raw appearance, brushing off a scheduled interview with Michael Cole to deliver two cutting lines: “I’m a killer” and “Wrestling has more than one royal family” — the latter a pointed shot at Rhodes’ legacy and family name in the business.

Full Announced Card for WWE SmackDown March 27

Rhodes’ return is the headline of a loaded SmackDown card. Kit Wilson faces Jelly Roll, the WWE Women’s United States Championship is on the line with Giulia defending against Tiffany Stratton, and Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair take on The Bella Twins. With WrestleMania 42 now just weeks away, Rhodes’ return is expected to signal the next major escalation in one of the show’s most high-profile rivalries.