WWE SmackDown Highlights: McIntyre Challenges Rhodes to Three Stages of Hell Match

The December 26, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown, held at the Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan, featured significant developments, including a surprise title change and the announcement of a highly anticipated match stipulation. Drew McIntyre challenged Cody Rhodes to a Three Stages of Hell match for the Undisputed WWE Championship, set for January 9, 2026, in Berlin, Germany. This stipulation is notable for its unique format, where each fall has a different set of rules, and it is often reserved for climactic rivalries.

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Carmelo Hayes captured the Men's United States Championship from Ilja Dragunov in a match that showcased both wrestlers' skills, culminating in Hayes executing a decisive finishing move. This victory marks a pivotal moment for Hayes, who is now positioned as a rising star in WWE.

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Drew McIntyre's challenge to Cody Rhodes comes after a prolonged rivalry characterized by intense confrontations and personal stakes. McIntyre's desire to face Rhodes in a Three Stages of Hell match stems from a deal he made with SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis, which allowed him to return from suspension. The rivalry has escalated to the point where McIntyre's comments about Rhodes' late father added a personal dimension, intensifying the animosity between the two competitors.

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In the lead-up to the match announcement, McIntyre attempted to provoke Rhodes into an attack, which would have resulted in Rhodes being stripped of the title. However, Rhodes refrained from reacting, prompting McIntyre to deliver a Claymore Kick as a final statement of intent. This exchange highlights the psychological warfare that has defined their feud.

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While the Three Stages of Hell match is anticipated by many fans, some critics argue that the prolonged nature of the rivalry has become repetitive. They suggest that both competitors should move on to new challenges rather than extending their feud further.

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In addition to the main event featuring McIntyre and Rhodes, the next episode of SmackDown will include an Ambulance Match between Aleister Black and Damian Priest, which is expected to conclude their ongoing rivalry. Furthermore, Trick Williams is rumored to be on the verge of a main roster call-up, potentially adding new dynamics to the championship landscape.

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• “The Scottish Warrior told Cody that when he drags him to Hell, he'll be able to say hi to his dad.” — Drew McIntyre, addressing Cody Rhodes.

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• “Hayes is a star, and this is a great win for him.” — Comment on Carmelo Hayes' victory over Ilja Dragunov.

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• “The goal of an Ambulance Match is to hurt your opponent so badly that they are sent to the hospital.” — Description of the Ambulance Match stipulation.

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The developments from this episode of SmackDown set the stage for an exciting lead-up to WrestleMania, with significant implications for the championship titles and the future of several key wrestlers.

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