The road to WrestleMania 42 took a new turn on the March 30, 2026, episode of WWE RAW. Stephanie McMahon shocked everyone by slapping Cody Rhodes during an in-ring segment. This didn’t just build hype for WrestleMania; it also led to a strong reaction from Cody Rhodes’ wife, making things even more personal.
The show started with Rhodes talking to the crowd at MSG. But before he could say much, Stephanie McMahon came out and immediately started talking about his upcoming match with Randy Orton.
There were some personal back-and-forths. McMahon talked about how she, Cody, and Orton all come from strong wrestling families. She then said how “diabolical” Randy Orton has become. She then compared Cody to his father, Dusty Rhodes, saying that Dusty would have the tools to face this version of Orton, but Cody is not his father.
Cody Rhodes fired back, bringing up Orton’s past and even mentioning moments that involved Stephanie herself. Then he flipped her comment on her, saying, just like he isn’t his father, she isn’t hers either.
That’s when things snapped.
Stephanie McMahon suddenly slapped Rhodes. She then said she was only trying to help him. Even after getting slapped, Rhodes said “thank you” to McMahon before walking away.
Cody Rhodes’ wife reacts to Stephanie McMahon’s slap on WWE RAW
But the story didn’t end there. Brandi Rhodes reacted on social media. She was clearly upset with everything and warned Stephanie. She tweeted, “Aw shit, Steph…man, come on I’m chillin, please don’t make me get up.”
Her message could be a hint that she might get involved. She has previously wrestled with Cody Rhodes during their time in AEW.
WWE is leaving no stone unturned to make this rivalry between Rhodes and Orton special. The themes involving family, friendships, and history will culminate during their match at the Show of Shows.
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