WWE SmackDown delivered a night of unexpected twists and intense competition at Berlin‘s Uber Arena on January 9, stunning fans worldwide with a surprise championship change and several high-stakes matches. WWE SmackDown Berlin spoilers were confirmed as Drew McIntyre dethroned Cody Rhodes in a dramatic Three Stages of Hell match, marking a significant shift in the WWE title picture just days ahead of the Royal Rumble.
International Broadcast and Opening Highlights
The live WWE SmackDown event began at 2 p.m. Eastern in Berlin and was streamed internationally via Netflix, while audiences in the United States can watch the broadcast in its usual 8 p.m. time slot on USA Network. Renowned announcer Michael Cole revealed that the show‘s final hour would run commercial free, building anticipation for fans watching around the globe.
Randy Orton set the tone for the night by opening with a promo, which triggered a confrontation with Trick Williams and an appearance by The Miz, who ultimately fell victim to an RKO. Trick Williams then powered through Rey Fenix in the evening’s first match, kicking off the in-ring action with high drama.
Full Breakdown of Match Results from Uber Arena
The event showcased a series of high-profile bouts featuring prominent names and pivotal moments. Trick Williams defeated Rey Fenix, and Giulia, the Women’s United States Champion, overcame Alexa Bliss, albeit with interference from Lash Legend, who sent Bliss tumbling from the turnbuckle and directly affected the outcome. The MFTs triumphed over The Wyatt Sicks after Tama Tonga pinned Uncle Howdy, capitalizing on a crucial distraction by Solo Sikoa.
Jordynne Grace marked her official arrival as the newest member of the WWE SmackDown roster with a victory over Alba Fyre, following a storyline endorsement from General Manager Nick Aldis backstage. United States Champion Carmelo Hayes successfully defended his title against Shinsuke Nakamura in a match that saw Nakamura target Hayes’ leg, but eventually resulted in mutual respect, as the two competitors shook hands and Nakamura raised Hayes’ arm.
In perhaps the most shocking outcome, Drew McIntyre bested Cody Rhodes two falls to one in a grueling Three Stages of Hell match to claim the WWE Championship. The match saw McIntyre gain the first pin after a low blow behind the referee’s back preceded a punishing Claymore Kick. The battle escalated as McIntyre and Rhodes clashed across the Uber Arena, tossing each other through the announce table before Cody leveled the score. However, during the decisive cage segment, Jacob Fatu emerged disguised in a black hoodie and mask, ambushing both superstars. This distraction enabled McIntyre to escape the cage and secure the title, capping the night with a monumental upset.
Key Storyline Developments and Surprises
The night was filled with significant narrative progression for the roster. Jordynne Grace’s SmackDown initiation was not only evident in her win but also in a face-to-face encounter with Jade Cargill, who claimed the show as her own. Lash Legend’s interference added a controversial twist to the Women’s US title match, further intensifying the division’s rivalries.
Backstage, Nick Aldis continued to influence the show’s direction, including addressing grievances from Kit Wilson and orchestrating matchups that will shape future storylines. Matt Cardona issued a direct threat to Cody Rhodes for the WWE Championship, while Johnny Gargano attacked Nathan Frazer in disguise, intensifying personal feuds ahead of upcoming challenges.
Michael Cole announced a new process to determine the next number one contender for the WWE Championship. Four qualifying matches—Randy Orton vs. The Miz, Matt Cardona vs. Trick Williams, Damian Priest vs. Solo Sikoa, and Sami Zayn vs. Ilja Dragunov—will take place next week in London, with the winners advancing to a fatal four way at January 24’s Saturday Night’s Main Event. The victor of that bout will face the newly crowned Drew McIntyre at Royal Rumble.
“Did that REALLY just happen?! 😳You definitely don’t want miss TONIGHT’S #SmackDown…📺 8e/7c on @usanetwork”— WWE (@WWE) January 9, 2026
Looking Toward WWE SmackDown’s Future Episodes
With Drew McIntyre as the new WWE Champion, the stakes have never been higher heading into the Royal Rumble and beyond. Next week’s lineup from London features qualifiers that will reshape the title landscape: Randy Orton versus The Miz, Matt Cardona squaring off against Trick Williams, Damian Priest battling Solo Sikoa, and Sami Zayn facing Ilja Dragunov. The outcomes of these contests will determine who advances and, potentially, who earns the right to challenge McIntyre for the championship.
The developments in Berlin underscore WWE SmackDown’s ability to deliver unpredictable action and evolving rivalries on a global stage. With alliances forming, rivalries escalating, and a heated chase for championship gold, the road to Royal Rumble promises to be filled with more surprises and drama for fans watching worldwide.
Did that REALLY just happen?! 😳
You definitely don't want miss TONIGHT'S #SmackDown…
📺 8e/7c on @usanetwork
— WWE (@WWE) January 9, 2026
