Drew McIntyre, who has been known for his intense rivalries over the past two years, shocked fans on February 13th during SmackDown by showing unexpected support for a fellow competitor. Ahead of a crucial Triple Threat match, which determined the final participant in the Elimination Chamber contest for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42, McIntyre voiced encouragement to one of his opponents, Sami Zayn, deviating from his usual confrontational stance.
Details of the Triple Threat Qualifier and McIntyre’s Interactions
The Triple Threat match involved three wrestlers deeply connected to McIntyre’s recent history: Cody Rhodes, whom McIntyre dethroned and has aggressively targeted since January; Jacob Fatu, a longtime adversary; and Sami Zayn, McIntyre’s most recent challenger for the title. Before the match, Cathy Kelley interviewed McIntyre, during which he launched verbal attacks at Cody Rhodes—promising that Rhodes wouldn’t come close to his championship—and disparaged Jacob Fatu by referencing his criminal record.
Drew McIntyre’s Surprising Words to Sami Zayn
As McIntyre prepared to critique Sami Zayn, the former Intercontinental Champion interrupted, prompting McIntyre to speak. Contrary to expectations, instead of trash-talking Zayn, McIntyre acknowledged his opponent’s character and struggles, praising him as “a good man” who had “paid his dues.” McIntyre expressed hope that Zayn would win the Triple Threat match, a statement that visibly stunned Zayn and left him momentarily speechless.
“He is a good man, that he has paid his due,s and that he hoped to see him win the Triple Threat match.” ?Drew McIntyre, WWE Champion
The Significance of McIntyre’s Support and Its Impact on Rivalries
This rare display of support contrasts greatly with McIntyre’s usual combative behavior and appeared to pay back Zayn, who recently admitted he had hoped McIntyre would defeat Cody Rhodes in Berlin. By publicly backing Zayn, McIntyre has introduced a new dynamic into the conflict surrounding WrestleMania‘s championship picture and the Elimination Chamber event, potentially influencing alliances and rivalries moving forward on SmackDown.
Drew McIntyre sends a message to the men who have qualified for the Elimination Chamber thus far, before being interrupted by Sami Zayn.
Drew tells Sami he wants him to win tonight and wishes him luck.#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/MPADnEsdg7
— The Movement – Pro Wrestling (@TheMovementXx) February 14, 2026
