The Drew McIntyre Undisputed Championship win unfolded on the January 9 episode of Friday Night SmackDown in Berlin, Germany, culminating months of intense rivalry with Cody Rhodes in a dramatic Three Stages of Hell match. This unexpected title change resulted from a mix of backstage decisions and compelling in-ring storytelling, bringing new intrigue to WWE’s championship scene.
The Road to a Championship Showdown in Berlin
Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre’s heated feud reached its peak in front of a Berlin crowd as both Superstars clashed across three distinct match types. The first stage, a traditional wrestling contest, saw McIntyre secure the early advantage. The second stage transitioned to a Falls Count Anywhere format, where Rhodes rebounded to win. The decisive final round took place in a Steel Cage, dramatically intensified by the sudden return of Jacob Fatu, known as The Samoan Werewolf. Fatu’s interference was aimed at both competitors, but his attention on Rhodes gave McIntyre a vital opening. Seizing the chance, McIntyre escaped the cage, clinching the match and the prestigious Undisputed Championship.
“AND NEW!!@DMcIntyreWWE DID IT!! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/A4YJhIbtkG”— WWE (@WWE)
Backstage Influences: Who Encouraged McIntyre’s Victory?
Reports from Bodyslam+ revealed that more than corporate leadership shaped the outcome. Both Cody Rhodes and The Scottish Warrior, as McIntyre is often called, strongly advocated for this title change, echoing an earlier pitch from their proposed Wrestlepalooza storyline. This concerted effort from two of WWE’s top stars influenced the Stamford-based promotion to proceed with the long-awaited result, finally giving McIntyre the championship spotlight.
Details also surfaced about a prior pitch in September 2025 involving a scenario where Randy Orton would inadvertently cost Rhodes the title, allowing McIntyre to win and setting up a potential feud leading to a dramatic heel turn for Orton. Though this scenario was not executed, it demonstrates the depth of creative input coming from the performers themselves in shaping major title decisions.
What Lies Ahead in the WWE Title Picture
With McIntyre crowned as the new champion, attention now turns to the impending challenger. General Manager Nick Aldis has announced that four qualifying matches will be held on next week’s SmackDown. Victors from each contest will advance to a four-way match at Saturday Night’s Main Event XLIII on January 24, with the winner earning a shot at the Undisputed title at Royal Rumble in Germany. This development adds further anticipation as superstars compete for a chance to challenge McIntyre as his reign begins.
The unexpected Drew McIntyre Undisputed Championship win has not only shifted WWE’s immediate plans but has also injected renewed energy into the blue brand’s main event scene, promising fresh rivalries and pivotal moments in the weeks to come.
AND NEW!!@DMcIntyreWWE DID IT!! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/A4YJhIbtkG
— WWE (@WWE) January 10, 2026
