Drew McIntyre’s WWE Championship win at SmackDown in Berlin has ignited a fresh family controversy, following his brother’s pointed remarks against Cody Rhodes. The dramatic victory capped off an intense Three Stages of Hell match, with Drew McIntyre emerging as the Undisputed WWE Champion and stirring strong reactions within the wrestling world.
McIntyre Triumphs at SmackDown in Berlin
On Friday night at the Uber Arena in Berlin, Germany, Drew McIntyre claimed a hard-fought victory over Cody Rhodes. The Scottish Warrior secured the Undisputed WWE Championship in a grueling Three Stages of Hell match, a contest that tested both men’s endurance and resolve. The win added momentum to McIntyre’s storied WWE career and signaled a new chapter in the title picture for SmackDown’s blue brand.
Brother’s Social Media Response Fuels Tensions
Following McIntyre’s win, his brother John Galloway quickly made his presence felt, taking to social media to send a pointed message directed at Cody Rhodes. Galloway referenced a line from Rhodes’ theme song—long associated with the Rhodes wrestling dynasty—stirring the pot during an already heated moment in the WWE universe.
“Wrestling has more than one royal family…,” he wrote.
This comment alludes to the rivalry between wrestling families and highlights the ongoing competition between McIntyre’s camp and Rhodes’ lineage, intensifying an already personal feud.
The Road to Victory: Three Stages of Hell Match Breakdown
The match itself unfolded across three brutal phases. In the opening fall, McIntyre outmaneuvered Cody Rhodes with a controversial low blow to secure the first point. The second fall, a Falls Count Anywhere stipulation, went to Rhodes, showing his resilience despite setbacks. The final act—a steel cage showdown—saw outside interference from Jacob Fatu, who attacked both competitors, adding to the chaos. Ultimately, as Rhodes found himself battered by Fatu, McIntyre crawled through the cage door, clinching the Undisputed WWE Championship amidst the disorder.
Reflecting on Career Lows and Highs in Glasgow
After his title defense against Shinsuke Nakamura at a live event in Glasgow, McIntyre took the time to share a deeply personal reflection with the crowd. Recounting his lowest point—singing with Tyson Fury after a devastating loss to Roman Reigns at WWE Clash at the Castle 2022—McIntyre addressed the audience with candor and emotion.
“But there was a moment that night. It was the worst moment of my career when I had to sing a stupid song with Tyson Fury. So I want to make it up right now. I know I have a great voice, as you saw, so I’m gonna need some help. I want to show the world what Scotland is capable of… So, let’s send a message to the lads [the Scottish football team] out there. We’ll just do the chorus. You know the words, so help me out. [Proceeds to sing]… Cheers Glasgow. Goodnight. I love you all,” he added.
This heartfelt moment in Glasgow highlighted McIntyre’s connection with his fans and his journey through the highs and lows of professional wrestling.
What Lies Ahead for the New Champion?
With Drew McIntyre’s WWE Championship win now the talk of SmackDown, attention turns to how long he can maintain his grip on the title amid fierce competition and ongoing family drama. The involvement of figures like Cody Rhodes, Jacob Fatu, and continued references to wrestling lineage ensure that the story is far from over. For McIntyre, the future will likely test both his resilience in the ring and his ability to navigate the complex personal dynamics that accompany wrestling success.
Wrestling has more than one royal family… pic.twitter.com/RTtEicHDDA
— John Galloway (@johngalloway86) January 11, 2026
