On the latest episode of WWE SmackDown, General Manager Nick Aldis delivered a stern message to Cody Rhodes, making it clear that the Undisputed WWE Championship could be at risk. This warning comes as Rhodes prepares for a highly anticipated showdown in Germany, and the Cody Rhodes SmackDown ultimatum now has significant implications for his title reign.
Tensions Mount Between Rhodes and McIntyre Ahead of Berlin Showdown
The ongoing rivalry between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre, also known as The Scottish Warrior, has become increasingly heated in recent weeks. Tensions escalated when McIntyre attacked Rhodes backstage on the latter’s bus, leaving Rhodes bloodied. Their feud is set to culminate in a brutal Three Stages of Hell Match for the Undisputed WWE Championship on January 9, 2026, in Berlin, Germany, promising to be a highlight for WWE fans worldwide.
Ultimatum Conditions: Keeping the Title Hinges on Self-Control
Before the much-awaited contest, Nick Aldis addressed Cody Rhodes during a backstage segment on SmackDown. Aldis reminded Rhodes that Drew McIntyre would reveal the stipulations for their upcoming Three Stages of Hell Match during that night’s show. Aldis made it crystal clear that any physical altercation between Rhodes and McIntyre before their official match would cost Rhodes his championship belt.
“Cody, just want to remind you that Drew is going to be here tonight. He’s here to lay out the stipulation for each of your Three Stages of Hell. You and I both know he’s going to try to get under your skin; you cannot let that happen. I hate to be a dead horse, but if you touch him before your match in Berlin, you’ll forfeit this [the Undisputed WWE Championship]. As your colleague and your friend, I’d hate to see that happen,” Aldis said.
Rhodes Promises Discipline Despite Rising Emotions
Despite the emotional tension of the moment, Cody Rhodes assured Nick Aldis, as well as the SmackDown audience, that he understood what was at stake. Rhodes, known as The American Nightmare, acknowledged the severity of Aldis’ warning, promising not to risk his title for personal revenge.
“Nick, you don’t have to worry. When it comes to this [the title], that’s not gonna happen,” Cody said.
What Lies Ahead for the WWE Championship Match
With Drew McIntyre scheduled to set the stipulations for each phase of the Three Stages of Hell Match, anticipation for the clash in Berlin continues to build. The ongoing rivalry, combined with Aldis’ ultimatum, sets a tense atmosphere leading up to January 9. The outcome of this high-stakes confrontation will determine not only the status of the Undisputed WWE Championship, but also the future direction of Cody Rhodes’ reign on SmackDown.
Just one week away from their Three Stages of Hell Match, @DMcIntyreWWE will reveal the stipulations for his match with @CodyRhodes TONIGHT on #SmackDown!
📺 8e/7c on @USANetwork pic.twitter.com/bHOhpFFiRa
— WWE (@WWE) January 2, 2026
