WWE is headed for Round 3 between Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes, and its shaping up to be the most personal yet.
After their staredown at Survivor Series WarGames, fans immediately picked up on the signal Reigns and Rhodes werent done. That cold, tension-filled moment in the ring was more than just a callback; it was confirmation of the direction heading into Las Vegas 2026.
But according to a new report from Self Made Pro, WWEs creative team didnt settle on that match until very recently and the OTC himself played a key role in steering the ship.
Behind closed doors, however, Roman Reigns made it known he preferred another matchup and that reshaped the entire road to WrestleMania 42.
That pitch ended up winning out. But it wasnt as simple as flipping a script. A major creative meeting had to take place before anything was finalized.
The agreement? Roman Reigns will enter the 2026 Royal Rumble as a babyface and win it. Thats how hes punching his ticket to WrestleMania 42, where hell try to take back the championship he lost to Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 40.
Meanwhile, Dave Meltzer confirmed the plans on Wrestling Observer Radio, saying:
This will mark the third WrestleMania bout between Reigns and Rhodes. Cody ended Romans epic title run at Mania 40, but now WWE is flipping the script. Romans redemption story is being set up as the centerpiece of this next chapter.
One things for sure: WrestleMania 42 is now a trilogy finale. Rhodes vs. Reigns III will determine more than just the championship its about legacy, revenge and who walks out as the true face of WWE.
What do you think about Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns happening again? Was WWE right to go this route, or should someone new be in the main event scene? Let us know your thoughts in the comments we want to hear what you would book!
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