Drew McIntyre stunned the WWE universe in Syracuse, New York, when he exited a house show and called off his main event match, leaving many fans in disbelief. This latest move is part of McIntyre’s insistence on doing things on his own terms, following his recent reinstatement on SmackDown.
Dramatic Exit at WWE House Show in Syracuse
The Scottish wrestler, known as “The Scottish Psychopath,” made waves during a WWE event in Syracuse, where fans were eager for a title match against Cody Rhodes. Prior to the contest, a fan’s video on X captured McIntyre addressing the audience with no shortage of biting remarks. As fans demanded a title match between McIntyre and Rhodes, he reminded them of his previous declaration about the conditions under which he would compete:
“You know, on SmackDown, right, remember what I said? ‘Cody, we’re not gonna fight in America, we’re gonna fight in Berlin, Germany, three stages of hell.’ Remember that? Yeah? This is freaking Syracuse, New York, right? So why would I agree to fight for the title here when it’s not on my terms? I agreed, because I’m just that nice a guy. I came out here. I was gonna give you a moment to remember. You see, you’re in New York, but you’re not really New York. What’s Syracuse got to brag about? Nothing. Cold, snowy, it sucks.”
Despite hinting that he would provide Syracuse residents a memorable experience, McIntyre ultimately walked out after fans booed him. The move was unexpected, as attendees anticipated a defining WWE moment at the arena. Instead, McIntyre’s walkout left many fans dissatisfied and talking about his bold stance.
But I was gonna give you a moment to remember, Drew McIntyre winning the WWE Championship, for the greatest moment of your life, kid. Tonight, wwould have been the greatest moment of your entire, entire life, let me join you. Ten? This will be the moment of your life, 10 years old, when you’re like 40 with beer belly and bald, ‘God, I was there the night Drew McIntyre won the WWE Title.’ But because you all booed me, I’m cancelling the main event. I’ll see you all in Berlin. Oh, wait. I won’t, cause you can’t afford to go there, so screw you all. Good night.”
Setting the Stage for Berlin
Drawing a clear line, Drew McIntyre made it evident that he would only face Cody Rhodes for the WWE Championship under his chosen circumstances. The highly anticipated Three Stages of Hell match is now scheduled for Berlin, Germany, on the January 9, 2026, episode of SmackDown. By selecting both the location and the terms of the match, McIntyre aims to ensure a fair opportunity and to avoid being deprived of a legitimate championship win, a scenario he believes happened previously due to ‘Corporate Cody.’
Ongoing Rivalry Intensifies on SmackDown
The tension escalated on last week’s SmackDown when McIntyre was fined and compelled to apologize for attacking referee Dan Engler with a Claymore, a point that added fuel to his already fiery demeanor. While apologizing, McIntyre couldn’t resist mocking Engler’s inability to defend himself, prompting the intervention of Cody Rhodes, also known as The American Nightmare.
Despite the provocation, Rhodes was constrained by championship rules; any physical response would have resulted in him relinquishing the Undisputed Championship. Seizing this advantage, McIntyre continued to besmirch Rhodes, escalating his remarks to personal territory.
He made cutting comments about Rhodes’ family, expressing regret that they were not present during the altercation. McIntyre indicated he would have relished defeating Rhodes in front of his children and wife, Brandi Rhodes, asserting himself as what he called a real “daddy.” This deeply personal attack pushed Rhodes to the edge, resulting in a scuffle that allowed McIntyre to deliver a decisive Claymore when Rhodes’ attention wavered while dealing with WWE GM Nick Aldis.
What Comes Next for McIntyre and the WWE Title
Drew McIntyre’s decision to cancel the Syracuse main event and dictate his title shot conditions has injected new intensity into WWE storylines. With the upcoming match against Cody Rhodes in Berlin now firmly set, the WWE universe is left to anticipate whether McIntyre can seize the championship on a stage and under conditions of his own choosing. Fans and insiders alike will be watching closely to see how this turbulent rivalry unfolds in the weeks leading up to this career-defining confrontation.
Drew McIntyre doesn’t want the match .. #WWEHolidayTour #WWESyracuse #WWE pic.twitter.com/JARKtE5RoQ
— Marianna (@momof2boys99) January 2, 2026
