WWE SmackDown News Roundup: Pat McAfee & Randy Orton steal Cody Rhodes' title, two major in-ring debuts, and more

Welcome to The Times of India WWE SmackDown News Roundup for its April 10 episode. The show was the second last edition before WWE invades Las Vegas to produce WrestleMania 42. It featured some thrilling in-ring bouts and featured the official debut of two new superstars in the company. Furthermore, a highly intriguing segment between WrestleMania 42 opponents between Cody Rhodes & Randy Orton and his ally, Pat McAfee, saw Rhodes lose the Undisputed WWE title from his possession.Pat McAfee came out on SmackDown to deliver his surprise announcement. He told the fans that WrestleMania 42 Saturday tickets were now available for a 25% discount rate until next week's RAW. He then fired shots at Cody Rhodes, which led him to come out to confront him. Rhodes had orders that he could not touch McAfee, but gave him a befitting response for his words against him. As he began to leave, McAfee began saying more hasty things, which prompted him to return to the ring. However, he was then attacked by Randy Orton and McAfee inside the ring, who also took out Jelly Roll. Following that, McAfee and Orton left with Rhodes Undisputed WWE belt and were seen leaving the arena together.Interestingly, former AEW stars Danhausen and Royce Keys had their official singles in-ring debut on SmackDown this week. Keys had a squash match with Berto, finishing off with a spinebuster to seal the victory. Danhausen battled Kit Wilson and used his curse, followed by a big boot, to emerge victorious in the singles showdown.Alexa Bliss defeated hometown hero Bayley in the opening match. Trick Williams beat Matt Cardona in a singles match, just before he confronted Sami Zayn, who himself addressed the loud boos he had been getting for weeks. Jacob Fatu picked up the victory over Tama Tonga. However, he was subjected to a huge beatdown by Drew McIntyre. Lastly, Also read: WWE WrestleMania 42 2026 Predictions: 5 huge surprise returns featuring The Rock, Undertaker & more