Drew McIntyre new WWE champion headlines Friday Night SmackDown as he overcame Cody Rhodes in a grueling Three Stages of Hell match on January 9 in Berlin, Germany. This victory marks a significant moment for McIntyre, elevating him to Undisputed WWE Champion and setting the stage for new rivalries within the organization.
The Scottish Warrior’s triumph signaled the end of Cody Rhodes’ title reign and ignited immediate discussion among wrestling legends and fans. Booker T, speaking on his Hall of Fame podcast, expressed his support for McIntyre, emphasizing that the win was overdue and that McIntyre exemplifies a true champion in today’s WWE landscape.
Booker T Praises McIntyre and Calls for Change
Booker T did not hold back in his praise, stating that McIntyre has consistently demonstrated what it takes to represent WWE at the highest level. His admiration for McIntyre’s abilities and character was evident, as he pointed out the champion’s readiness to carry the company forward.
“When you’re crying about going out there and proving you should be that top guy, that’s something, but Drew? He should be that guy, you look at him. He checks off every damn box. Give him the ball and let him run with it.Cody’s done very, very well, but I feel like it was time for a change. It’s not for me to go on record, before it happened, and say it’s time for a change, but after the fact, looking at it, I think it was time for a change. I think it’s time for Drew McIntyre to get his props. To get his run.”
– Booker T, WWE Hall of Famer
Booker T’s commentary reflects the wider sentiment among many in the wrestling world who viewed McIntyre’s ascension as inevitable. By highlighting McIntyre’s perseverance and talent, Booker T reinforced the importance of long-term dedication in achieving championship status.
Jacob Fatu’s Role and Potential WrestleMania Showdown
Beyond celebrating McIntyre’s achievement, Booker T also pointed to the significance of Jacob Fatu‘s involvement in the decisive match. Fatu’s arrival introduced unpredictability to the contest, and Booker T sees the young powerhouse as a compelling contender to face McIntyre on the grand stage of WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas.
“Then I think about the finish, it wasn’t anything other than believable. There’s no rules in a match like that, Jacob comes in and he goes off on everybody because he has no alliances. So you can’t say he came in and did the deed or anything like that, but I loved it, man.I loved keeping Jacob in play as well because who is next in line for the title now? I think it’s Jacob. On the marquee, Jacob Fatu vs. Drew McIntyre, that’s a hell of a match. You know, those two are gonna go out there and bring the noise.I feel like those two guys can go out there, really put on a masterclass, a fight in the middle of that squared circle. That’s what I love about professional wrestling, I always love two guys that can get in there, sit in the pocket, and throw hands. For me, that’s a WrestleMania match.”
– Booker T, WWE Hall of Famer
Booker T’s comments fuel speculation that WWE might build toward a Jacob Fatu versus Drew McIntyre showdown. Both athletes are known for their intensity and physicality, making a future clash between them an anticipated highlight for fans. As WrestleMania 42 approaches, Fatu could become the main challenger, keeping the momentum alive for the Undisputed WWE Champion.
WWE Community Reacts to McIntyre’s Championship Victory
Reactions from the wrestling world have poured in celebrating Drew McIntyre new WWE champion status. It is seen as a shift in narrative, with many welcoming the change and looking forward to fresh matchups and storylines. Former WWE stars and industry figures have voiced their approval, with McIntyre’s resilience and skill being recurring themes.
This result places McIntyre in the top echelon of WWE, alongside current and former stars like Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, and Roman Reigns. Names such as John Cena and The Rock remain key personalities in ongoing conversations about WWE’s future directions, especially with upcoming events and possible confrontations at WrestleMania.
Upcoming Storylines and the Road Ahead
Drew McIntyre’s victory sets the stage for dynamic storylines in the coming months. The possibility of Jacob Fatu stepping up as the next challenger adds intrigue, especially given Fatu’s impact during the title match in Berlin. WWE fans also anticipate further developments as superstars like Seth Rollins, CM Punk, and Roman Reigns factor into the evolving title picture.
The championship win in Berlin, witnessed by a massive global audience, represents a transformative period for WWE. McIntyre’s journey, from chasing the title to standing as champion, stays at the center of fan interest, while the emergence of new rivals helps maintain the dramatic and unpredictable nature of professional wrestling.
Significance and Future Impact
As WWE continues to evolve, Drew McIntyre’s new role as champion is expected to shape the company’s direction in 2024 and beyond. With legends like Booker T supporting his reign and a roster filled with hungry contenders, the stage is set for memorable matches and compelling narratives. The anticipation of potential showdowns, especially at signature events like WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas, keeps fans and industry insiders engaged with every development.
The focus now remains on how McIntyre will defend his title, who will emerge as the next key challenger, and how these rivalries will define the ongoing drama of WWE’s flagship storylines. With his victory in Berlin, Drew McIntyre moves forward as Undisputed WWE Champion, carrying the hopes of both longtime supporters and a new generation of wrestling enthusiasts.
