Imagine tuning into a highly anticipated wrestling event, only to find out the main match you’ve been waiting for never actually happens—and yet, it’s still one of the most unforgettable moments of the night. That’s exactly what went down at Saturday Night’s Main Event, where Cody Rhodes and Jacob Fatu delivered something far more chaotic and thrilling than a traditional bout. But here’s where it gets controversial: Was this a genius move by WWE, or did they miss the mark by not giving fans the match they were promised?
Let’s set the stage. Geno Mrosko, a seasoned pro wrestling enthusiast and Manager at Cageside Seats since 2011, knows a thing or two about what makes these events tick. Like many, he was curious about how WWE would handle the Cody Rhodes vs. Jacob Fatu matchup at the January 24, 2026, special in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. After all, Fatu is rumored to be on the cusp of a major push heading into WrestleMania season, and Rhodes—well, he’s Cody Rhodes, a name synonymous with high-stakes matches at the grandest stage of them all. The question on everyone’s mind was: Who would be booked to lose? And this is the part most people miss: WWE sidestepped the question entirely.
Instead of the planned singles match, the evening kicked off with Fatu launching a pre-bell attack on Rhodes. What followed was pure pandemonium. WWE personnel rushed the ring, and a wild brawl erupted, spilling out into the arena. The chaos didn’t stop until WWE Champion Drew McIntyre made his dramatic entrance, putting both Rhodes and Fatu through tables in the crowd. It was messy, it was unexpected, and the fans ate it up—even though they never got the match they were advertised.
McIntyre strutted his stuff in the ring, leaving Rhodes and Fatu to be carried away. It wasn’t what anyone expected, but it was undeniably awesome. Or was it? Here’s the controversial take: While the unpredictability was refreshing, did WWE prioritize shock value over delivering on their promise to fans? And does this set a precedent for future events where matches could be swapped for brawls at the last minute?
What do you think? Was this a stroke of genius or a missed opportunity? Let’s debate it in the comments—because whether you loved it or hated it, one thing’s for sure: it’s a moment no one will forget anytime soon.
