Stephanie McMahon Returns to Madison Square Garden

WWE legend Stephanie McMahon made a notable return to Monday Night Raw at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Her appearance was centered on addressing the current Undisputed WWE Champion, Cody Rhodes, amid his intensifying rivalry with Randy Orton.

The Feud Between Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton

The tension between Rhodes and Orton has escalated significantly since Orton secured his spot in the men’s Royal Rumble. Orton is set to challenge Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42, following Rhodes' recent title victory over Drew McIntyre.

Orton’s recent behavior on Friday Night SmackDown has been particularly aggressive. He left Rhodes bloodied during a recent broadcast and delivered an RKO to country music star Jelly Roll just last week.

McMahon Challenges Rhodes' Mindset

During the segment, McMahon offered Rhodes advice on how to handle his opponent. She warned him that he must tap into a more sinister side to defeat Orton, describing the current version of the "Legend Killer" as "diabolical."

McMahon compared Rhodes to his father, the legendary Dusty Rhodes, noting that while Dusty knew how to get "down and dirty," she felt Cody was not currently living up to that legacy. This comment drew a massive reaction from the New York crowd.

A Tense Exchange and Physical Confrontation

Rhodes responded by acknowledging his familiarity with Orton’s violent history, including the time Orton punted McMahon herself. He retorted, "Stephanie McMahon, with all due respect, you’re not yours either," referring to her own father. Following this remark, McMahon slapped Rhodes across the face.

Despite the physical confrontation, the segment concluded with Rhodes thanking McMahon. He suggested that her words served as the necessary wake-up call to prepare him for his upcoming title defense.

WrestleMania 42 Details

The highly anticipated showdown between Rhodes and Orton is scheduled for WrestleMania 42. The event will take place on April 18 and 19 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.