Follow on Google News
Pat McAfee made his return to WWE programming last night on SmackDown, where he was revealed as Randy Orton’s mystery partner, attacking Cody Rhodes.
McAfee’s return came as a major surprise, as names like The Rock, Kevin Owens, and Ted DiBiase Jr. had been considered the leading candidates to fill the role of Orton’s mystery ally.
This dark alliance began the week following Orton’s heel turn on Rhodes, which took place during the contract signing for their Undisputed WWE Championship match at WrestleMania 42.
WHAT THE?!@PatMcAfeeShow just attacked @CodyRhodes 😱@RandyOrton pic.twitter.com/NFHQYFd0iP
— WWE (@WWE) April 4, 2026
However, according to PW Insider, the decision to place McAfee in this role did not come from WWE’s creative team, but rather from TKO Group Holdings. Apparently, the joint venture’s president, Ari Emanuel, was responsible for the entire direction.
It will be interesting to see whether McAfee’s involvement in the feud between Orton and Rhodes continues through WrestleMania 42, or if the sports commentator will transition into a managerial role in WWE.
Later that same night, Rhodes returned to the ring at the end of the show, vowing revenge against Orton, McAfee, and everyone involved in this rivalry.