Cody Rhodes’ journey as the Undisputed WWE Champion reached an emotional conclusion on January 9 during SmackDown, as Drew McIntyre seized the title after a dramatic Three Stages of Hell Match. The Cody Rhodes WWE title loss has become the center of attention, with new fan-captured footage highlighting just how much the defeat affected the “Quarterback of WWE.”
Dramatic End to Cody Rhodes’ Reign After Three Stages of Hell
The match took place before a charged crowd, with Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes battling fiercely. The pivotal third fall saw the unexpected return of Jacob Fatu, who initially attacked McIntyre but quickly turned on Rhodes, tipping the balance of the match. By intervening at such a critical moment, Fatu allowed McIntyre to make his escape from the steel cage and clinch the victory 2-1 in a grueling contest.
As the event concluded, McIntyre walked up the ramp with his new title in hand while Cody Rhodes remained inside the ring, his shock and disappointment evident. Fan-shot video has now emerged, showing Rhodes looking devastated and emotionally drained after the bout, drawing both sympathy and applause from the audience present.
Even as chants of approval filled the arena for his effort and perseverance, Rhodes’ visible dismay signified how much the championship meant to him, highlighting the personal stakes that defined the storyline. The “Quarterback of WWE” appeared inconsolable in the moments following his loss, capturing the emotional reality behind the spectacle.
How Drew McIntyre Secured His Fourth World Championship
The start of the contest saw McIntyre securing the first fall through a combination of a low blow and a Claymore Kick. Cody Rhodes battled back and won the second fall by putting McIntyre through the announce table with his signature Cross Rhodes move. The deciding third fall was shaped by Jacob Fatu’s interference, leading to McIntyre crawling out of the cage and earning his fourth world championship, overcoming months of hostility with Rhodes.
In the aftermath, McIntyre celebrated his victory on social media. On Instagram, he shared an image of himself asleep with the title. On X/Twitter, he posted a black and white photo holding the championship and wrote:
“No longer bored at work.”
? Drew McIntyre, Undisputed WWE Champion
What Awaits the New Champion
McIntyre now faces fresh challenges as the Undisputed WWE Champion. His first title defense is scheduled for the Royal Rumble Premium Live Event, where he will compete against the victor of a Fatal Four-Way Match. This qualifier is set for Saturday Night’s Main Event XLIII, as announced by Nick Aldis.
The dramatic Cody Rhodes WWE title loss marked a major turning point on SmackDown, altering the main event scene and stirring intense fan reaction. With tensions between Rhodes and McIntyre still raw, and Jacob Fatu’s return adding a new layer of unpredictability, the road to the next major WWE event promises more surprises for superstars and fans alike.
