{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://www.timecybermedia.com/Pages/sports/Wrestling/wrestlemania-42-countdown-20-feb-2026-drew-mcintyre-avoids-cody-rhodes-key-storylines-revealed"},"headline":"WrestleMania 42 Countdown (20 Feb 2026) – Drew McIntyre Avoids Cody Rhodes, Key Storylines Revealed","description":"Drew McIntyre declares he does not want to face Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 42, raising questions about potential match-ups and championship legacies. As wrestlers prepare for the big event, the countdown has begun with major storylines in the works.","image":["https://c.ndtvimg.com/2026-02/lcs068ls_drew-mcintyre-x_625x300_20_February_26.jpeg"],"datePublished":"2026-02-20T05:44:36.144Z","dateModified":"2026-02-20T05:44:36.144Z","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"riddhima","url":"https://www.timecybermedia.com"},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Time Cyber Media","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https://www.timecybermedia.com/logo.png"}},"articleSection":"sports","articleBody":"

The anticipation for WrestleMania 42 is reaching a fever pitch, as WWE fans eagerly debate potential match-ups. The Undisputed WWE Champion Drew McIntyre has made headlines with a candid declaration about his preferred opponents, notably expressing his desire to avoid a showdown with Cody Rhodes.

Key Highlights

Drew McIntyre names Cody Rhodes as the one opponent he doesn't want at WrestleMania 42.
Initial predictions for the championship challenger will be finalized following the Elimination Chamber match.
McIntyre is optimistic about facing either Randy Orton, LA Knight, or Je'von Evans.
Roman Reigns is set to challenge CM Punk for the World Heavyweight Championship.
McIntyre emphasizes the importance of retaining his title to maintain his leadership role on SmackDown.

Detailed Analysis

McIntyre's outspoken preference to avoid Cody Rhodes reflects deeper storylines entwined in WWE's scripted outcomes. The champion's concerns about Rhodes stem from their previous encounters, raising questions about the narrative control and the perception of fairness in matches. By declaring 'anybody but Cody', McIntyre positions himself as a champion who prioritizes his legacy and the integrity of the SmackDown brand. His comment, “I liberated this title for everybody, but mostly me”, underscores a desire for authentic championship reign free from controversial narratives that he links to Rhodes.

Conclusion

As WrestleMania 42 approaches, the landscape of WWE's championship scene becomes clearer. With McIntyre keen to avoid any pitfalls associated with Cody Rhodes and the likes of Roman Reigns stepping into the spotlight, fans can expect some intense showdowns that may define the future of the WWE landscape.