WWE SmackDown Preview: Cody Rhodes' WrestleMania Main Event Dreams in Jeopardy? (2026)

WrestleMania Dreams on the Line: Will Cody Rhodes Be Left in the Dust?

SmackDown returns tonight (February 13th) live from the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas, marking the second episode in the four-week build to the Elimination Chamber on February 28th. Due to Olympic coverage, catch all the action on the SyFy network.

But here's where it gets controversial... While Cody Rhodes and Jacob Fatu both have their sights set on WWE Champion Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42, their path is fraught with obstacles. Tonight, they face off in a triple threat Chamber qualifier alongside Sami Zayn. On the surface, this means at least one of them won't even make it to the Chamber. But is WWE really planning to sideline one of these top contenders?

And this is the part most people miss... WWE has a history of last-minute 'last chance' qualifiers, potentially offering a lifeline to the loser. Alternatively, a double pin on Zayn, known for crumbling under pressure, could see both Rhodes and Fatu advance.

However, a more intriguing possibility emerges. Drew McIntyre, already interfering to eliminate Cody from the Royal Rumble, might aim to repeat history. With no disqualifications in a triple threat, he could tip the scales in Zayn's favor, keeping both Rhodes and Fatu out of the Chamber and away from WrestleMania.

Is this a strategic masterstroke from McIntyre, or a desperate attempt to avoid a rematch with Rhodes? Tune in tonight to find out.

The Rest of the Card:

  • Championship Defense: WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill finally defends her title on TV against Jordynne Grace. Can the underdog dethrone the champion, or will Jade solidify her reign?

  • Tag Team Turmoil: RHIYO (Rhea Ripley & IYO SKY) defend their WWE Women's Tag Team Championships against Nia Jax and Lash Legend. A win here could bring the Bella Twins one step closer to a title shot.

  • Chamber Qualifier: Alexa Bliss, Zelina Vega, and Women’s United States Champion Giulia battle for a spot in the Elimination Chamber. Will Charlotte Flair intervene to even the score with Bliss after the Royal Rumble?

  • Rising Star: Trick Williams faces Rey Fenix in a singles match. After mocking Sami Zayn and impressing on commentary, is Trick poised for a Chamber qualification?

Other Storylines to Watch:

  • Can Kit Wilson rally the crowd with his anti-toxic masculinity message before facing Matt Cardona?

  • Will Randy Orton make an appearance after qualifying for the Elimination Chamber last week?

  • Will Tiffany Stratton finally address the WWE Universe after her Royal Rumble return?

  • Who will challenge United States Champion Carmelo Hayes next after his victory over The Miz?

  • Is the feud between Tama Tonga and Shinsuke Nakamura already fizzling out?

  • Where are the MFTs, and will they aid Solo Sikoa in his quest for redemption?

  • Will Drew McIntyre clash with R-Truth or Damian Priest tonight?

  • Can Candice LeRae help Johnny Gargano find his footing again?

  • How will Chelsea Green's injury affect her antics with GM Nick Aldis?

  • Who will Aleister Black target upon his return?

  • And the question on everyone's mind: Where is Royce Keys?

What storylines are you most excited to see unfold on tonight's SmackDown? Let us know in the comments!

WWE SmackDown Preview: Cody Rhodes' WrestleMania Main Event Dreams in Jeopardy? (2026)

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