Cody Rhodes improvised his response to Pat McAfee on SmackDown

The latest episode of SmackDown started with Pat McAfee revealing himself as Randy Orton's mysterious interlocutor. The moment escalated quickly: McAfee attacked Cody Rhodes and delivered an incendiary promo criticizing low ratings, poor ticket sales, and accusing the champion of failing as the face of WWE.

Later, Rhodes counterattacked by mocking the situation, comparing it to Disco Inferno as the third man of the nWo, and vented his frustration against the executives for involving McAfee in the storyline. The promo was not part of the internal script, fueling rumors that Rhodes spoke unfiltered.

Some believe that Rhodes "fired shots" by mentioning the interference of TKO Group Holdings in the creative direction. Bodyslam+ reports real frustrations in the creative team due to last-minute changes leading up to recent WrestleMania events, especially with executive decisions.

Rhodes vs. Orton at WrestleMania 42

Rhodes will defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Orton at WrestleMania 42. The tension between McAfee and Rhodes adds fuel to the main rivalry, while WWE navigates internal and external criticisms about its creative direction.