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Cody Rhodes Injured, Eye Swollen Shut in New Video After Win vs. Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42

Joseph ZuckerApr 19, 2026

Cody Rhodes didn't exactly look like a winner following his successful title defense against Randy Orton in the main event of WrestleMania 42's first night.

WWE showed the damage Rhodes sustained in both the match and as a result of Orton's attack after the bell. His left eye was swollen shut and he had a noticeable cut a few inches above his eyebrow.

WWE reported on Sunday that Rhodes is not medically clear after the injury and the medical staff said the damage was "severe."

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According to Ringside News' Subhojeet Mukherjee, Rhodes got pulled from his planned appearance Sunday at WWE World, with the company citing the injuries he just sustained.

It doesn't look like the rivalry between he and Orton is over despite the challenger coming up short.

After the match, The Viper grabbed the championship belt and hit Rhodes in the head with it. He proceeded to punt the hobbled victor.

WrestleMania closed out Saturday night with Orton as the star standing defiant in the middle of the squared circle.

Backlash is the next premium live event on the schedule. The show will get underway May 9 in Tampa, Florida. That gives Rhodes a few weeks to recuperate if WWE is planning on a rematch with him and Orton.

When Orton was reportedly dealing with an injury of his own, there may not be a rush to have the two renew hostilities.

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