Tensions continued to rise on the April 10 episode of SmackDown, as Cody Rhodes was hit with an unexpected restriction ahead of WrestleMania 42. This pertinent instruction left more questions than answers.
With just eight days to go before the biggest show of the year, Rhodes arrived at the arena. He immediately set his sights on Pat McAfee.
Instead of a confrontation, however, he encountered a firm warning that quickly changed the tone of the night.
Nick Aldis mentions ‘orders from above’ during Cody Rhodes segment
During the opening segment, SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis informed Rhodes that he was not allowed to lay hands on McAfee under any circumstances.
When pressed for an explanation, Aldis made it clear the decision was out of his control. He stated the directive came from “above.”
That line — simple on the surface — carried weight. It suggested a higher authority was stepping in, effectively putting Rhodes on a leash at a time when emotions are running high. For a champion known for taking matters into his own hands, being told to stand down is easier said than done, especially when the fuse has already been lit.
Jelly Roll soon joined the scene and was given the same warning. Instead of escalating things, he offered Rhodes a reminder of what’s at stake. Jelly Roll pointed back to his two-decade history with Randy Orton and urged him to stay focused.
The restriction comes in the wake of McAfee’s shocking heel turn on April 3, when he aligned with Orton and blindsided Rhodes. Since then, the rivalry has intensified, including a heated promo exchange on the same night.
Reports suggest McAfee’s involvement stems from higher-level decisions, adding another layer to the “orders from above” comment. Meanwhile, speculation continues around a possible tag match at Backlash featuring Rhodes and Jelly Roll against Orton and McAfee.
For now, Rhodes may have to keep his hands to himself. However, with WrestleMania approaching, that restraint might not last long.
READ MORE: Possible ‘Spy’ Spotted During Cody Rhodes–Jelly Roll Segment on WWE SmackDown
