Full Breakdown
Drew McIntyre Claims WWE Championship in Dramatic Match
1/10/2026, 8:39:49 PM
Dramatic Championship Shift on SmackDown
On January 9, 2026, during the WWE SmackDown event held in Berlin, Germany, Drew McIntyre captured the Undisputed WWE Championship from Cody Rhodes in a highly anticipated "Three Stages of Hell" match. The match concluded with McIntyre escaping the steel cage while Rhodes was distracted by the returning Jacob Fatu, who interfered in the bout. This victory marks McIntyre's third reign as WWE Champion, ending Rhodes' title run after 159 days, during which he successfully defended the championship four times.
Match Breakdown
The "Three Stages of Hell" match consisted of three distinct segments: a standard wrestling match, a Falls Count Anywhere match, and a steel cage match. McIntyre secured the first fall by executing a low blow followed by a Claymore kick. Rhodes responded by winning the second fall with a Cross Rhodes maneuver through the announce table. The final fall saw McIntyre capitalize on Fatu's interference, allowing him to escape the cage and claim the championship.
Upcoming Title Contenders
Following McIntyre's victory, WWE has announced a series of qualifying matches to determine the number one contender for the championship. The matches will feature notable competitors including Randy Orton, The Miz, Carmelo Hayes, Trick Williams, Damian Priest, Solo Sikoa, Sami Zayn, and Ilja Dragunov. The winners will advance to a fatal four-way match at the upcoming Saturday Night’s Main Event, with the victor earning a title shot at the Royal Rumble.
Official Statements & Responses
Reports indicate that there was an internal push within WWE to have McIntyre dethrone Rhodes, aligning with the decision to crown McIntyre as the new champion. Following the match, WWE officials expressed satisfaction with the outcome, viewing it as a pivotal moment in the ongoing narrative of the championship landscape.
Criticism & Opposition
While McIntyre's victory was celebrated by many fans, some critics voiced concerns about the reliance on interference to conclude the match. Detractors argue that such tactics undermine the integrity of the championship and detract from the athleticism of the competitors involved.
What's Next for WWE
As the WWE landscape shifts following McIntyre's championship win, the upcoming weeks will see a reshuffling of contenders vying for the title. With Rhodes temporarily sidelined, the focus will shift to the new challengers emerging from the qualifying matches, setting the stage for an exciting lead-up to the Royal Rumble.
Verbatim Quotes
This championship change marks a significant moment in WWE history, as McIntyre's reign begins amidst a competitive field of challengers eager to claim the top spot.
