Additional backstage discontent surrounding Pat McAfee’s insertion into the Cody Rhodes versus Randy Orton WrestleMania 42 storyline has been reported by PWInsider, reinforcing earlier accounts of frustration within WWE‘s locker room. According to the report, a number of performers feel the Rhodes vs. Orton feud already had sufficient history and depth on its own, making McAfee’s addition feel unnecessary rather than additive.
The unscripted nature of McAfee’s SmackDown promo drew mixed reactions backstage, with some talent unhappy with both the content of the segment and how it fit into the WrestleMania build. The involvement has been widely attributed to direction from TKO Group Holdings executives rather than Triple H’s usual creative process — a dynamic that has added to the unease among some in the locker room.
Cody Rhodes Faces Added Pressure According to Backstage Reports Despite Not Voicing Frustration Publicly
While Rhodes himself has not openly expressed frustration, there is reportedly genuine sympathy for him among his peers. The sense backstage is that he now faces additional pressure as a result of carrying McAfee’s involvement alongside an already significant championship match. Rhodes vs. Orton is confirmed for Night One of WrestleMania 42 on April 18 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
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