On January 9, 2026, Drew McIntyre secured the Undisputed WWE Championship by defeating Cody Rhodes in a grueling Three Stages of Hell match. This victory marked the culmination of a heated and personal feud between the two 40-year-old superstars that intensified at the start of the year, with McIntyre targeting Rhodes’ personal life in their ongoing rivalry.
The match was contested in three distinct parts, with McIntyre winning the first bout via a traditional wrestling match and Rhodes taking the second in a street fight. The final fall occurred inside a steel cage, where a surprise interference from Jacob Fatu, returning from hiatus, shifted momentum. Fatu attacked McIntyre, while Rhodes was neutralized by The Samoan Werewolf, allowing McIntyre to quietly exit the cage through the door and claim the title.
Following his victory, McIntyre shared a memorable photo of himself resting with the championship belt on Instagram, an image WWE has now transformed into a viral t-shirt available for fans to purchase.
McIntyre Stirring Up Trouble on WWE SmackDown
During the February 20 episode of WWE SmackDown, Drew McIntyre continued to make waves by defying authority and creating chaos. Although Nick Aldis granted McIntyre the night off due to previous interference in a main event, the champion remained at the venue and took a seat in the VIP booth. There, he provoked both Cody Rhodes and Jacob Fatu, successfully agitating Fatu and drawing attention to himself.
Security personnel were eventually called to remove McIntyre after Aldis ordered his exit. Despite the confrontation backstage, McIntyre did not leave quietly. He made a significant impact during the main event match between Randy Orton and Aleister Black by emerging from the crowd and striking Orton with his championship belt, costing Orton the victory.
The outcome sets the stage for Orton to challenge McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship, contingent on winning the men’s Elimination Chamber match scheduled for February 28.
Additional WWE Updates and Wrestler Insights
Ronda Rousey officially announced in 2025 that she has no plans to return to WWE, a development noted by Seth Rollins, who expressed no surprise at her decision.
Britt Baker has recently addressed rumors concerning her future in wrestling amidst speculation about a possible jump to WWE.
A newly emerging WWE star revealed a challenging past, discussing how his brother, previously involved in drug dealing, tragically lost his life while protecting him.
Original retirement plans for AJ Styles in WWE have also come to light, providing insight into the superstar’s career trajectory.
Stephanie McMahon expressed shock after hearing unexpected insults during a recent Raw promo.
The truth behind rumors involving AJ Styles and a former WWE Diva has finally been clarified.
A former WWE star lamented the absence of memorable storylines throughout his tenure, describing his experience as disappointing.
In a striking interview, a female WWE star revealed a startling personal anecdote, stating,
“I Got A Hole In The Butt.”
What This Means for Drew McIntyre and WWE Moving Forward
Drew McIntyre’s recent championship win and continued provocations on WWE programming highlight his role as a central figure in ongoing storylines. His unpredictable presence increases anticipation for upcoming events, especially the Elimination Chamber match, which could further shape the title landscape. The launch of McIntyre’s viral championship t-shirt also demonstrates WWE’s ability to capitalize on moments that resonate with fans, blending in-ring success with merchandise appeal. Fans can expect McIntyre’s reign and rivalries to unfold amid escalating tensions in the weeks ahead.
