WWE SmackDown Results (April 3): Full Highlights and Winners

Shocking Betrayal on SmackDown: Pat McAfee Aligns with Randy Orton Against Cody Rhodes

The road to WrestleMania 42 just took a volatile turn. During the April 3, 2026, episode of WWE SmackDown at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, the rivalry between Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton reached a breaking point with a stunning reveal that has shifted the landscape heading into the biggest show of the year.

The Viper Returns to St. Louis

The evening began with Randy Orton addressing the crowd in his hometown of St. Louis. In a focused and intense promo, “The Viper” made his intentions clear: he is targeting the Undisputed WWE Championship. Orton asserted that he will abandon Las Vegas at WrestleMania 42 with his 15th world title firmly around his waist.

Orton highlighted a shift in his dynamic with Cody Rhodes, claiming that Rhodes had previously given him his “blessing” to embrace his darkest side and become the best version of himself. However, Orton warned that the “killer” he has awoken inside cannot be put back to bed. He also referenced a conversation involving Stephanie McMahon, claiming she told Rhodes that he simply could not beat Orton.

The Mystery Man Revealed

The tension peaked when Cody Rhodes entered the ring, leading to a physical confrontation between the two men. As the brawl unfolded, the mystery of who had been communicating with Orton was finally solved. Pat McAfee blindsided the champion, delivering a low blow to Rhodes.

This attack confirmed that McAfee was the mystery man on the phone with Orton since his initial assault on Rhodes. Following the low blow, Orton utilized a steel chair and provided McAfee with a microphone, cementing an unexpected alliance between the two against the champion. In the aftermath, a frustrated Cody Rhodes reacted to the betrayal, stating that Pat McAfee “can kiss my a**.”

Behind the Scenes: Creative Shifts

Although the segment delivered a major plot twist, reports indicate the creative direction may have been influenced by corporate interests. According to PW Insider, TKO higher-ups reportedly overruled the creative team to integrate McAfee into the storyline, citing the company’s partnership with ESPN.

Key Takeaways from SmackDown (April 3, 2026)

• The Alliance: Pat McAfee is officially aligned with Randy Orton.
• The Goal: Randy Orton is seeking his 15th world title at WrestleMania 42.
• The Location: The events took place at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri.
• The Stakes: Cody Rhodes heads to Las Vegas as the Undisputed WWE Champion facing an unexpected duo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the mystery man Randy Orton was talking to?

The mystery man was revealed to be Pat McAfee, who attacked Cody Rhodes from behind during the April 3 episode of SmackDown.

Where is WrestleMania 42 taking place?

WrestleMania 42 will be held in Las Vegas.

How many world titles is Randy Orton chasing?

Randy Orton is pursuing his 15th world title reign.

With the addition of Pat McAfee to Randy Orton’s arsenal, Cody Rhodes faces an uphill battle to retain his championship. As the industry looks toward Las Vegas, the question remains whether the champion can overcome the combined force of The Viper and one of WWE’s most unpredictable personalities.