As the Elimination Chamber 2026 approaches, Trick Williams has issued a clear message to Drew McIntyre, the current Undisputed WWE Champion on SmackDown. On the Battleground podcast, Williams expressed his respect for McIntyre but made it known that he desires the champion’s position and is determined to claim it.
Williams, a former NXT Champion, earned his place in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match by defeating Carmelo Hayes and Damian Priest. The winner of this match at WWE’s upcoming Premium Live Event (PLE) will secure a title shot against Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42.
“When they walk, you know, through the airport, people turn their head and look and see who is that. Drew McIntyre is one of those guys for sure. So I take that praise, you know, very seriously. But I got to make it come to fruition. I got to work. I got to do my part, and I’m grinding. I’m grinding every single day. Like, I’m after it. I’m hungry. You know what I mean? I appreciate it, Drew, but at the same time, I want your spot. So don’t get it twisted,” he said. [H/T: PWMania]
Drew McIntyre Reacts to Rivalries and Focuses on Elevating SmackDown
Following verbal confrontations involving Roman Reigns and CM Punk on RAW, Undisputed WWE Champion Drew McIntyre responded publicly. In an interview with Denise Salcedo, McIntyre acknowledged that their remarks motivated him to intensify his efforts, with a goal to make WWE SmackDown the top wrestling show.
McIntyre criticized Reigns and Punk for centering their attention on him rather than on their own ongoing rivalry. He urged the roster to raise their performance levels, emphasizing commitment and passion for the brand moving forward.
“You’re two giant superstars. Focus on yourselves. Focus on the title. The guys that have held this title, including you guys, made it what it is: the number one title. And as for Smackdown, it lit a fire under me. Really lit a fire under me. That’s why I said to the roster, ‘You better stand up and be as angry as I am and start giving 150%.’ No matter what big platform they’re on right now, I don’t care. Our show is going to be the better show cause everyone’s going to be killing it from now on,” McIntyre said.
Implications of the Upcoming Elimination Chamber Match
With Trick Williams positioned as a strong contender in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match, the stakes are high at the WWE PLE event this weekend. The outcome will determine the next challenger who will vie for Drew McIntyre’s Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42, raising anticipation among WWE fans.
Williams’ declaration reveals a deep hunger to reach the pinnacle of WWE competition, setting the stage for an intense battle that could significantly reshape the SmackDown landscape. McIntyre’s response signifies his commitment to defending his title while driving his entire roster to elevate their performances.
