At the inaugural Wrestlepalooza event held at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Drew McIntyre sustained a leg injury while competing against Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship. The match, broadcast live on ESPN, featured intense action as McIntyre aimed to reclaim the title in front of a live crowd.
McIntyre faced his former ally turned opponent, Cody Rhodes, in the main event. Early in the match, McIntyre attempted to gain an advantage by removing the turnbuckle pad, hoping to weaken Rhodes. Referee Ryan Tran intervened briefly, moving out of the ring to regulate the fight, which included a near fall when McIntyre rolled up Rhodes for a pin.
Critical Moment Leads to Injury Outside the Ring
As the battle progressed, McIntyre aimed to finish Rhodes off with his signature Claymore Kick beneath the announce table. However, Rhodes evaded the attack, causing McIntyre to crash against the nearby television screen, injuring his leg in the process. Despite the injury, McIntyre persevered and continued fighting through the pain.
When McIntyre tried to land another Claymore Kick later in the match, his leg gave out, which allowed Rhodes to capitalize. Rhodes executed his signature moves, the Cody Cutter followed by Cross Rhodes, securing his victory and retaining the WWE Championship.
Post-Match Medical Attention and Uncertain Future
Following the conclusion of the match, McIntyre was assisted by a medical team as he was clearly in distress, focusing on his right leg. Meanwhile, Rhodes celebrated his successful title defense in front of the crowd. McIntyre was eventually helped backstage for further evaluation of his injury.
“Looks like Drew McIntyre may have messed up his ankle. #Wrestlepalooza pic.twitter.com/pgoLEFr61U”
— Tim Jarrell of PWUnlimited (@TimmyBuddy)
The severity of the Drew McIntyre leg injury raises questions about his ability to invoke a rematch clause in the near future. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this injury impacts his pursuit of the WWE Championship going forward.
THIS REF JUST COST DREW MCINTYRE THE MATCH. WHAT WAS HE DOING???? #Wrestlepalooza
— Generation (@GEnErationalll) September 21, 2025
Looks like Drew McIntyre may have messed up his ankle. #Wrestlepalooza pic.twitter.com/pgoLEFr61U
— Tim Jarrell of PWUnlimited (@TimmyBuddy) September 21, 2025
