The war between Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes is far from over — and it’s heading straight into hell.
On the December 26 episode of WWE SmackDown, McIntyre announced that he will face Cody Rhodes in a Three Stages of Hell match on the January 9, 2026 episode of SmackDown, which takes place in Berlin, Germany.
Before the official announcement, McIntyre tried to provoke Rhodes by taking personal jabs at his family. Rhodes appeared ready to fight on the spot, but SmackDown GM Nick Aldis physically held him back. That restraint didn’t last long.
“Say hi to your dad in hell for me,” McIntyre snarled — and that was it. Rhodes shoved Aldis away, only to walk into a sudden Claymore Kick from McIntyre.
Earlier in the night, McIntyre appeared on SmackDown to pay a fine for striking a referee with a Claymore in a prior match. His apology wasn’t exactly heartfelt. After handing over the money, he sarcastically offered remorse for the referee’s failed wrestling career and suggested his wife must be disappointed in him.
This all follows a heated meeting between McIntyre and Aldis after WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event, where McIntyre complained about being screwed out of multiple title opportunities. Aldis agreed to give him a shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship — and let McIntyre choose the stipulation.
Now the stage is set for one of the most brutal match types in WWE history — and in front of an international crowd.
Will Cody Rhodes survive the Three Stages of Hell? Or will Drew McIntyre finally break him down completely? Drop your thoughts in the comments.
December 26, 2025 9:31 pm
