The WWE rivalry between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre has entered a new phase, with McIntyre bringing Rhodes’ family into the storyline during a recent live event. As the Cody Rhodes WWE feud intensifies, tensions mount ahead of their critical championship match, escalating both inside and outside the ring.
Intense Escalation Between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre
Cody Rhodes has found himself constantly targeted by Drew McIntyre in recent weeks. The ongoing conflict escalated dramatically when McIntyre attacked Rhodes inside his personal bus during a live WWE SmackDown taping. Following this shocking incident, WWE officials suspended McIntyre for his actions, showcasing the gravity of the feud. However, Rhodes nearly confronted McIntyre as he attempted to enter the arena, an effort thwarted by general manager Nick Aldis, who intervened and escorted McIntyre away.
The animosity did not end there. Demonstrating his own resolve, Rhodes took matters into his own hands and surprised McIntyre at his residence while Nick Aldis was involved in discussions aimed at reinstating McIntyre, a move initiated at Rhodes’ request. This sequence of events highlighted the personal stakes and determination driving both competitors.
On the latest episode of SmackDown, McIntyre again managed to outmaneuver Rhodes in the psychological battle. By taunting Rhodes to retaliate, McIntyre nearly forced his opponent into an action that could have resulted in Rhodes losing his championship, in accordance with stipulated rules. The volatile segment concluded with McIntyre delivering a powerful Claymore Kick to Rhodes, leaving the champion downed in the ring.
The ongoing feud has now been set to culminate in a high-stakes 3 Stages of Hell match for the Undisputed WWE Championship at the upcoming January 9 taping in Berlin, raising the drama to new heights.
McIntyre’s Confrontation With Rhodes’ Family During WWE Holiday Tour
In the buildup to 2026, WWE organized a Holiday Tour across the United States. During a live show in Baltimore, Cody Rhodes defended his championship against Drew McIntyre, with his family members present in the audience, intensifying the emotional stakes. The Scottish Warrior used the platform to vent frustration over being scheduled to compete in the United States prior to his match in Berlin, despite already having a championship opportunity on the horizon.
Taking the animosity to a personal level, McIntyre directed sharp comments towards Brandi Rhodes’ family seated at ringside. Addressing Brandi’s mother, McIntyre said:
“I have a question for you. You always watch SmackDown, right? You gotta check out Cody every week, so you watch the show, SmackDown. And I know what you’re thinking when you watch SmackDown. You’re thinking, ‘My God, that tall, handsome Scottish guy makes me real weak in the knees every week.’ I know what you really thinking. You’re thinking ‘I wish my daughter married Drew instead of Cody.’ Hey, you can’t touch me, man. You can’t do a thing about this, or they’ll strip you of the title. So for the grand finale, I don’t have to do anything. I’m gonna leave Detroit, and I’m gonna win the title in Berlin. Good night, everybody.”
— Drew McIntyre, WWE Superstar
The scene highlighted McIntyre’s attempt to mentally unsettle both Rhodes and his family, using the WWE spotlight to fuel the rivalry. With Rhodes in the ring and his family in attendance, McIntyre’s remarks intensified an already contentious storyline, further blurring the lines between personal and professional stakes.
What Lies Ahead in the Cody Rhodes WWE Feud
As the feud between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre approaches its most critical stage, the emotional and personal nature of their rivalry is clear. McIntyre’s targeting of Rhodes’ family has not only escalated the drama but also positioned the upcoming 3 Stages of Hell championship match as a potential turning point for both men’s careers. WWE fans now look to Berlin, where Rhodes will fight to defend his title and his family’s honor against a relentless and motivated challenger. The outcome in Berlin could reshape their paths in WWE, setting the stage for a new era in the ongoing Cody Rhodes WWE feud.
Drew McIntyre talks to Brandi Rhodes family at ringside with Cody Rhodes in the ring#WWEDetroit pic.twitter.com/PmAIMTtIc2
— Cody Goaty (@CodyGoatyy) December 31, 2025
