Introduction: Who Is Drew McIntyre?
Born Andrew Galloway IV on June 6, 1985, in Ayr, Scotland, Drew McIntyre began wrestling at a young age and eventually entered WWE’s developmental system. His early WWE run saw promise but limited opportunity — the company dubbed him “The Chosen One,” but injuries and creative setbacks halted his ascent. After being released in 2014, McIntyre redefined himself on the independent circuit before returning triumphantly to WWE in 2017.
WWE Championship: What It Means
The WWE Championship is one of the most prestigious titles in sports entertainment, with a lineage that dates back to 1963. Originally known as the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship, it has been the centerpiece of WWE’s world title scene for decades, held by icons such as Hulk Hogan, Steve Austin, The Rock, and John Cena.
Winning this championship signifies that a wrestler is the face of WWE, responsible for carrying major storylines and headlining marquee events like WrestleMania and Summerslam.
Drew McIntyre’s WWE Championship Wins
Drew McIntyre is a two-time WWE Champion, having first achieved the pinnacle of WWE success in 2020 and most recently regaining it in 2026.
1. First WWE Championship Win — WrestleMania 36 (April 5, 2020)
Drew McIntyre’s first WWE Championship win was a historic and emotional moment. On April 5, 2020, at WrestleMania 36, McIntyre faced Brock Lesnar in the main event. After a brutal match showcasing power, perseverance, and resilience, McIntyre hit multiple Claymore Kicks to secure the three-count and capture the WWE Championship for the first time in his career.
This victory had added significance:
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McIntyre became the first British wrestler to win the WWE Championship.
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He accomplished this feat during the unique challenges of the COVID-19 era, with the event held without fans.
This title win marked the culmination of years of hard work — from international tours to rebuilding his career after a WWE release — and positioned McIntyre as a new generation main event star.
2. Second WWE Championship Win — SmackDown, January 9, 2026
Drew McIntyre added another chapter to his legacy by winning the WWE Championship again on January 9, 2026. At a SmackDown event held in Berlin, Germany, he defeated Cody Rhodes in a dramatic Three Stages of Hell match — a brutal series of encounter formats culminating in a steel cage finale.
Although the match featured interference and controversy, McIntyre’s victory re-established him at the top of WWE’s championship scene heading into major storylines.
How Drew McIntyre Qualified for His First Title Shot
Before his first championship win, McIntyre earned his opportunity by winning the 2020 Royal Rumble. His victory in the Rumble match granted him the right to challenge for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 36 — the ultimate prize in WWE.
This showing of strength against 29 other competitors laid the foundation for his title-main event run.
Title Defenses and Rivalries
Defending the WWE Championship (2020)
After WrestleMania 36, McIntyre defended the title against top stars like Randy Orton, AJ Styles, and Bobby Lashley throughout 2020. His championship reign showcased violence, drama, and memorable matches — including successful defenses in Elimination Chamber matches.
Losing and Regaining Momentum
Although McIntyre’s first reign ended when Bobby Lashley cashed-in his Money in the Bank contract, McIntyre continued to be a central figure in WWE’s world title picture. He later regained the belt through ongoing bitter rivalries and unexpected twists.
What Makes McIntyre’s Championship Wins Special?
British Pride on the WWE Stage
McIntyre’s win at WrestleMania 36 resonated globally as a major milestone for British wrestlers in WWE. British fans celebrated his win as a breakthrough moment for talent from outside North America.
A Journey of Reinvention
Few wrestlers have a story like McIntyre’s — released by WWE, reinventing himself abroad, and returning to dominate WWE’s biggest stage.
Claymore Kick Legacy
McIntyre’s powerful Claymore Kick became one of WWE’s most feared finishing moves, and it played a pivotal role in both of his WWE Championship wins.
McIntyre’s Other Championships and Accolades
Aside from his WWE Championship reigns, McIntyre has also achieved success across the WWE landscape:
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World Heavyweight Championship — WrestleMania XL (brief reign)
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NXT Championship — before moving fully to WWE’s main roster
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Intercontinental Championship — early career tune-up
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RAW Tag Team Championships — multiple times
These accomplishments reveal McIntyre’s versatility and longevity in professional wrestling.
McIntyre’s WWE Championship Timeline
| Year | Event | Opponent | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | WrestleMania 36 | Brock Lesnar | Won WWE Championship |
| 2026 | SmackDown Live | Cody Rhodes | Won WWE Championship |
This concise timeline highlights the climactic points in McIntyre’s journey to becoming a multi-time WWE Champion.
Beyond the Ring: McIntyre’s Influence
Drew McIntyre’s impact isn’t limited to championship wins. He’s become a fan favorite, admired for his dedication, rugged work ethic, and authentic personality. His story inspires wrestlers and fans alike, proving that second chances and perseverance truly can pay off.
Drew McIntyre’s WWE Championship FAQs
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about McIntyre’s title wins:
Q: When did Drew McIntyre first win the WWE Championship?
A: He first won the WWE Championship on April 5, 2020, at WrestleMania 36 by defeating Brock Lesnar.
Q: How many times has Drew McIntyre been WWE Champion?
A: Drew McIntyre is a two-time WWE Champion — winning the title in 2020 and again in 2026.
Q: Who did McIntyre defeat for his second WWE Championship?
A: He defeated Cody Rhodes on January 9, 2026, in a Three Stages of Hell match on SmackDown.
Q: What other major titles has Drew McIntyre won?
A: McIntyre has held the NXT Championship, Intercontinental Championship, World Heavyweight Championship (briefly), and RAW Tag Team Championships.
Q: Why is McIntyre’s WWE Championship win at WrestleMania 36 historic?
A: It was historic because McIntyre became the first WWE Champion from Britain, marking a milestone for international wrestling stars.
Conclusion
Drew McIntyre’s rise from WWE mid-card talent to multi-time WWE Champion is one of professional wrestling’s most inspiring stories of resilience and determination. From his first WWE Championship win at WrestleMania 36 to reclaiming gold again in 2026, McIntyre continues to cement his place among WWE’s elite performers.
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