Drew McIntyre trolls CM Punk following his recent victory over Cody Rhodes, clinching the Undisputed WWE Championship on SmackDown in a dramatic Three Stages of Hell encounter. The confrontation has reignited the heated rivalry between the Scottish Warrior and the Best in the World, putting their contrasting views on what it means to be a real champion in the spotlight.
Drew McIntyre Claims the Title After Grueling Match
On WWE SmackDown, Drew McIntyre faced Cody Rhodes, also known as The American Nightmare, in a high-stakes Three Stages of Hell match. The contest began with a standard singles bout, which McIntyre claimed for himself. Rhodes struck back during the second phase, a Falls Count Anywhere showdown, before the decisive Steel Cage match determined the final winner. With both men battered, Jacob Fatu intervened, launching an assault on Rhodes that allowed McIntyre to escape the cage and secure his victory. This result cemented McIntyre as the new Undisputed WWE Champion, fueling excitement among fans and stirring up the ongoing storylines in WWE.
McIntyre’s Online Jab at CM Punk Fuels Rivalry
Shortly after his title win, Drew McIntyre intensified his feud with CM Punk by referencing the ongoing debate over what it means to be a champion. Recently, WWE legend Kevin Nash had called out CM Punk, the reigning World Heavyweight Champion, criticizing him for wearing a t-shirt during a match and suggesting that champions should be in peak physical condition and opt not to conceal their physique. CM Punk responded in his own signature style, mocking Nash’s remarks by sporting two t-shirts in the ring.
Picking up the thread, McIntyre took to social media to post a photo showcasing his physique and made a pointed comment aimed at Punk, reigniting their rivalry in the public eye.
No t-shirt needed. This is what a real Champion looks like.
— Drew McIntyre, Undisputed WWE Champion
The History and Context of McIntyre vs. Punk
The dynamic between Drew McIntyre and CM Punk has been an evolving one in WWE storylines, where their rivalry has often transcended the actual championship belt itself. At times, the two have imbued other symbols, such as a bracelet, with meaning more significant than the title, highlighting the personal stakes and animosity between them. The latest exchange further escalates their feud, as McIntyre’s public trolling has challenged Punk’s standing both as a titleholder and as a competitor who lives up to the “champion” moniker.
This is not the first time Punk has been in the spotlight for his in-ring attire. The debate around his choice reignited after a recent title defense against Bron Breakker on Monday Night RAW, where Punk’s championship run was subject to further scrutiny and commentary from wrestling veterans and fans. Meanwhile, McIntyre continues to build credibility as the Undisputed WWE Champion, fresh off victories over major stars like Cody Rhodes.
What Comes Next for the Superstars?
The WWE Universe now looks on as the narrative between Drew McIntyre and CM Punk intensifies. Wrestling fans are speculating about how Punk will respond to McIntyre’s jab, and whether their rivalry will be settled in the ring or will spill further onto social media. With iconic figures like Kevin Nash, Cody Rhodes, and Jacob Fatu influencing recent events, the evolving storyline keeps viewers engaged each week. As other stars like Becky Lynch and Logan Paul make headlines in WWE, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on Drew McIntyre and CM Punk’s escalating war of words and willpower. The impact of this rivalry could shape the direction of WWE’s top titles and define what it truly means to be a champion in today’s wrestling landscape.
No t-shirt needed. This is what a real Champion looks like. pic.twitter.com/eAMG3z9GsI
— Drew (@DMcIntyreWWE) January 11, 2026
