What's Happening?
During the January 9, 2026 edition of WWE SmackDown, Drew McIntyre captured the WWE Championship from Cody Rhodes in a 'Three Stages of Hell' match. The match consisted of three distinct stages: a standard
match, a Falls Count Anywhere match, and a steel cage match. McIntyre secured the first fall with a low blow followed by a Claymore kick. Rhodes won the second fall after a brutal exchange that included a Cross Rhodes on the announce desk. The decisive third fall saw McIntyre escape the cage to win the title, aided by interference from Jacob Fatu, who attacked both competitors. This victory marks a significant moment in McIntyre's career, as he regains the championship amidst a heated rivalry with Rhodes.
Why It's Important?
The outcome of this match has significant implications for WWE's storyline and the upcoming WrestleMania event. McIntyre's victory not only shifts the championship landscape but also sets the stage for potential new rivalries and storylines. The involvement of Jacob Fatu introduces an additional layer of intrigue, potentially leading to future confrontations. For Cody Rhodes, this loss could propel him into the Royal Rumble, where he might aim to secure a title shot at WrestleMania, adding further excitement to the event. The match's outcome also reflects WWE's strategic decisions in shaping its main event scene, impacting fan engagement and viewership.
What's Next?
With McIntyre as the new champion, WWE may explore various storyline directions leading up to WrestleMania. Rhodes could seek redemption by entering the Royal Rumble, aiming to earn a title shot. The presence of Jacob Fatu suggests potential future alliances or rivalries that could influence upcoming events. WWE's creative team will likely capitalize on this title change to build anticipation for WrestleMania, possibly involving other top contenders in the title picture. The storyline developments in the coming weeks will be crucial in setting the stage for one of WWE's biggest annual events.
