At the WWE Royal Rumble event held in Riyadh, Drew McIntyre successfully defended the Undisputed WWE Championship against Sami Zayn, who earned his title opportunity by winning a four-way match. During the intense championship bout, Zayn suffered a back injury after executing a somersault dive onto McIntyre outside the ring. Despite the injury, Zayn fought valiantly, but McIntyre relentlessly focused on targeting his opponent’s back. The match concluded with McIntyre delivering a signature Powerbomb through the Arabic commentary table, followed by two Claymore Kicks, securing his victory and retaining the championship.
Later that night, although not a participant in the Men’s Royal Rumble match, McIntyre made a significant impact by eliminating former WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. As Rhodes clung to the edge of elimination, McIntyre struck him with his Claymore Kick, which caused Rhodes’ exit from the match.
Drew McIntyre Explains His Attack on Cody Rhodes
During the WWE Royal Rumble post-show, McIntyre was asked about his surprising decision to interfere in the Men’s Royal Rumble match by taking out Cody Rhodes. McIntyre clarified that he would have been fine with any competitor winning the Royal Rumble, except Rhodes. He explained that while he does not lie and considers himself a good person, repeated betrayals and championship losses caused by Rhodes forced him to become an adversary.
“Why not? I’m a good guy. I never lie. Listen to them, they get it. If you don’t wrong me, if you don’t screw me time and time again, I’ll be your best friend. But if you wrong me, if you constantly cost me the championship, get on my bad side, I’ll be the worst enemy you’ve ever had. I heard someone say that Cody Rhodes is at his absolute best when he’s in chase mode, but I’m at my best when he’s holding the championship. Cody, I will make your life a living hell. I was fine with anyone winning the Rumble, just not you.”
McIntyre’s remarks make clear the depth of his rivalry with Rhodes, highlighting how past conflicts have escalated their animosity, especially around the WWE Championship.
McIntyre Challenges Roman Reigns Following Royal Rumble Outcome
Cody Rhodes is not McIntyre’s only rival, as the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble winner, Roman Reigns, remains a prominent adversary. With Reigns earning the right to challenge for either McIntyre’s WWE Title or CM Punk’s World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 42, the post-show saw McIntyre directly address Reigns with a confident challenge.
“I’m like Dr. Sam Beckett in Quantum Leap, if anyone remembers that. Putting right what once went wrong. The time’s I’ve been screwed, Cody Rhodes, I made it right. Roman Reigns? There’s a big enemy of Drew McIntyre. His Bloodline made my life a living hell for so long, so if he wants to pick Drew McIntyre…on his own, I would destroy Roman Reigns. Go for it, Roman, pick me. Let’s main event WrestleMania, and I will drop your ass.”
This statement underscores McIntyre’s readiness to face Reigns at WrestleMania and his intent to settle their ongoing conflict once and for all. Whether Reigns opts to challenge McIntyre or pursue CM Punk’s World Heavyweight Title remains unconfirmed.
Additional WWE Highlights From Recent Events
Beyond McIntyre’s activities at the Royal Rumble, the WWE Universe witnessed several engaging moments. A WWE star created buzz by dressing as Spider-Man aboard a flight to Saudi Arabia, providing a lighthearted moment amid the intense competition. John Cena paid homage to a long-time rival turned friend ahead of their Royal Rumble encounter, demonstrating respect and camaraderie within the wrestling world.
Meanwhile, Logan Paul has solidified his position as a rising WWE superstar, openly discussing his challenges with humility despite his rapid success. Becky Lynch, entering the women’s Royal Rumble match as the WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion, shared her distinctive plans contingent upon winning the match, indicating high stakes for the women’s division.
On SmackDown, Carmelo Hayes continued to defend his United States Championship with an open challenge, showcasing the competitive spirit and unpredictability in WWE contests. Meanwhile, debate continues around Vince McMahon’s potential return to WWE, highlighting the ongoing discussions about leadership and future directions within the company.
The Men’s Royal Rumble also crowned a rare two-time winner, marking a historic occasion within WWE’s signature event. Lastly, R-Truth made a heartfelt confession about his difficult 2025 year in WWE, revealing how fan demands influenced changes in his career trajectory.
Significance of McIntyre’s Actions and Future Possibilities
Drew McIntyre’s defense of his WWE Championship and his bold interference in the Men’s Royal Rumble underline his determination to maintain dominance within WWE. By attacking Cody Rhodes and openly challenging Roman Reigns, McIntyre has intensified existing rivalries and set the stage for highly anticipated showdowns at WrestleMania 42. His focus on protecting the championship and confronting his rivals indicates a strategic mindset aimed at solidifying his legacy.
The coming months will be crucial to observe whether Roman Reigns accepts McIntyre’s challenge, shaping the main events of upcoming WWE programming. Meanwhile, other storylines across the WWE roster continue to evolve, offering fans a range of compelling matches and dramatic developments. As WWE moves forward, McIntyre’s championship reign and rivalries will undoubtedly remain central to the company’s narrative and audience engagement.
PROBLEM. SOLVED.@DMcIntyreWWE just couldn't help himself… pic.twitter.com/fbVQGtVvvg
— WWE (@WWE) January 31, 2026
