Cody Rhodes Calls Pat McAfee a Full-Blooded Rat

Cody Rhodes has launched a verbal attack on Pat McAfee, describing him as a full-blown, full-blooded rat during an appearance on ESPN’s Get Up on April 14, 2026.

During the interview, Rhodes participated in a word association segment involving various WWE personalities. When the name of Pat McAfee was presented, Rhodes used the opportunity to critique the broadcaster’s current role and professional environment.

A rat. A full-blown, full-blooded rat who is surrounded by people that don’t tell him no enough, and now he’s fully involved in what we’re doing, and Pat McAfee is on the marquee next to Randy Orton. No one expected that. So at least we can expect the unexpected with ESPN’s own Pat McAfee.

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WrestleMania 42 Storyline Context

The friction between the two stems from McAfee’s involvement in the WWE Championship feud leading up to WrestleMania 42. According to reporting from WrestleZone, McAfee inserted himself into the narrative by serving as the mystery caller for Randy Orton.

McAfee has allied with Orton in an effort to wrestle the WWE Championship away from Rhodes. This involvement has drawn criticism from both WWE talent and fans.

Rhodes also addressed his current status regarding the championship during the April 14, 2026, interview. He stated that he is currently titleless because McAfee took the title to the Thunderdome.

External Alliances and Reactions

In addition to his comments on McAfee’s surroundings and his alliance with Orton, Rhodes noted that Andrew Schulz had offered to assist him in dealing with McAfee.

The conflict marks a significant escalation in the lead-up to the event, with Rhodes highlighting the unexpected nature of McAfee’s position on the marquee alongside Randy Orton.