Plans for Drew McIntyre’s WWE Undisputed Championship defense at WrestleMania 42 appear to be changing, moving away from a traditional one-on-one match. McIntyre, known as the Scottish Psychopath, captured the title last month after defeating Cody Rhodes in a grueling Three Stages of Hell bout on SmackDown.
Initially, it was believed that McIntyre would defend his championship against Rhodes in the main event on the first night of WrestleMania in Las Vegas. However, recent reports suggest the storyline may pivot toward a multi-competitor match featuring several contenders.
WWE Considers Expanding the Title Match to Include Several Challengers
During a February 23 Q&A, WrestleVotes revealed that WWE’s current internal plans have shifted from a standard singles contest to potentially a multi-man championship match. The speculation points toward a
“five-pack or even a six-pack challenge”
rather than a head-to-head bout.
“At this point, it’s shaping up to be anything but a singles match. The expectation is a five-pack or even a six-pack challenge,” the report said.
Rumors mention possible inclusion of stars like Jacob Fatu, Sami Zayn, and Aleister Black alongside McIntyre and Rhodes, indicating that the bout is expected to be highly competitive and feature multiple wrestlers.
“It’s wild to think that Aleister Black, Jacob Fatu, and Sami Zayn could all be part of the WWE Title match at WrestleMania. Whether it’s a four-man, five-man, or even six-man, but certainly won’t be a one-on-one match,” the report added. [H/T: Ringside News]
McIntyre has already clashed with Sami Zayn in title defenses and continues his feud with Jacob Fatu, creating a natural buildup for their potential involvement at the Show of Shows. This development marks a significant shift from earlier expectations centered on a McIntyre-Rhodes singles showdown.
McIntyre Expresses Reluctance to Face Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania
Throughout last year, Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes maintained an intense rivalry, culminating in McIntyre regaining the WWE Undisputed Championship after assistance from Jacob Fatu. As WrestleMania approaches, McIntyre shared his personal views on his preferred opponent.
In an interview on the Busted Open Podcast, McIntyre was asked whom he would like to face in Las Vegas. Notably, he named Cody Rhodes as the opponent he does not wish to face, citing WWE’s protection of Rhodes’ character.
The Scottish Warrior’s comments add a layer of tension and reveal his concerns about the direction of his WrestleMania challenge, highlighting an internal desire to avoid another clash with Rhodes in a one-on-one scenario.
Potential Impact of a Multi-Man WWE Championship Match at WrestleMania 42
If WWE proceeds with a multi-competitor match featuring McIntyre, Rhodes, Zayn, Fatu, Black, or others, it could significantly alter the dynamics of the main event at WrestleMania 42. The shift toward a more crowded title bout may increase unpredictability and excitement for fans, though it also reflects underlying unease about singling out an opponent for McIntyre.
This development spotlights WWE’s ongoing adjustments ahead of their marquee event, suggesting a willingness to experiment with format and participants to maintain viewer interest. Fans and analysts will closely watch how McIntyre’s championship reign unfolds and which wrestlers ultimately secure spots in the title contest.
