Drew McIntyre, the former WWE World Heavyweight Champion known as The Scottish Warrior, is rumored to undergo a significant image change in 2026, potentially turning babyface once again. These rumors have intensified as McIntyre continues his dynamic presence in WWE, especially as he builds toward his highly anticipated match against Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship on SmackDown.
McIntyre was previously celebrated as WWE’s leading babyface during the pandemic era, but later embraced a darker persona, turning heel in pursuit of championship gold. His current storyline sees him on a collision course with Cody Rhodes, with the two set to compete in a Three Stages of Hell match on January 9, promising a high-stakes showdown for the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Analyst Predicts Babyface Turn for Drew McIntyre
The speculation around Drew McIntyre’s future gained momentum following comments made by WWE analyst Sam Roberts on his Notsam Wrestling podcast. Roberts, recognized for his passionate coverage of WWE storylines, shared his thoughts regarding McIntyre’s current role and what may lie ahead for the superstar.
Roberts expressed admiration for McIntyre’s work as a heel, highlighting the depth and dedication he has brought to the character since his initial turn after the pandemic period. As McIntyre approaches another potential championship victory, fans and insiders alike are questioning what direction his character arc will take in the years ahead.
“I think there is so much appreciation for the work that Drew McIntyre is doing right now. And I think that Drew McIntyre, aside from winning the championship, has done everything that you possibly can as a heel. And it gets to a point where you’ve done everything you can do as a heel and the people are really enjoying your work, there’s only one option, you gotta turn babyface.And I think in 2026 that happens. I think Drew McIntyre goes back to being a babyface for the first time since the pandemic, and we see that turn happen in 2026. And I think it’ll be really successful. I think Drew McIntyre is a babyface in 2026 will be really spectacular. [55:17 onwards]” — Sam Roberts, WWE Analyst
Roberts suggested that McIntyre’s appeal as a heel may soon reach its peak, prompting a fresh turn back to a fan-favorite role. According to Roberts, the timing of a Drew McIntyre babyface turn in 2026 could recapture the momentum he previously enjoyed as WWE’s leading hero during a turbulent era.
A Look at McIntyre’s Journey and Rivalries
Before his heel turn, Drew McIntyre served as one of WWE’s most popular figures, a position solidified by his triumphs as World Heavyweight Champion. His journey back to the main event spotlight has been marked by a string of intense storylines, with his rivalry against Cody Rhodes being the centerpiece of the current WWE landscape. The upcoming Three Stages of Hell match—an especially grueling contest—will likely play a critical role in shaping his immediate future.
This ongoing rivalry with Rhodes on SmackDown, coupled with McIntyre’s consistent performance, have made him a focal point of WWE programming. With the championship in sight and his character’s direction at a potential crossroads, fans are eager to see whether McIntyre’s next move will align with the predictions circulating among industry insiders.
Anticipating the Impact of a Babyface Turn in 2026
If Drew McIntyre does follow through with a babyface turn in 2026, the move could have far-reaching effects on WWE storylines and the championship scene. McIntyre’s previous tenure as a fan favorite brought him remarkable success, and a return to that status might rejuvenate both his on-screen persona and the SmackDown brand.
The possibility of this change is already sparking passionate debate among viewers and analysts, who remember the lasting impression McIntyre made during his earlier run as a hero. As the current storyline with Cody Rhodes unfolds, the outcome of their championship clash may further set the stage for an eventual face turn, reigniting support among fans and potentially influencing the direction of WWE’s programming in 2026.
With the wrestling world watching closely, Drew McIntyre’s next steps—whether as a dominant heel or a resurgent babyface—are destined to shape the WWE landscape for years to come.
