Cody Rhodes: VS Drew McIntyre Who Won | Undisputed Champion

The rivalry between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre has been one of the most intense storylines in modern WWE. Both superstars are known for their resilience, charisma, and ability to deliver spectacular matches inside the ring.

Fans around the world have been asking a key question: Who won the match between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship?

The answer depends on which chapter of their rivalry you’re referring to. Their feud has featured multiple clashes where the title changed hands and dramatic interference influenced the outcomes.

In early 2026, the biggest moment came when Drew McIntyre defeated Cody Rhodes to become the Undisputed WWE Champion, marking a major turning point in their feud and the WWE title scene.

This article explores their rivalry, match results, championship history, and what the future holds for these two WWE superstars.

The Rise of Cody Rhodes in WWE

Before diving into the match results, it’s important to understand the rise of Cody Rhodes.

Cody Rhodes returned to WWE in 2022 after a successful run in other promotions. His comeback quickly turned into one of the biggest redemption stories in wrestling.

Key Highlights of Cody Rhodes’ Career

• Son of legendary wrestler Dusty Rhodes

• Former Intercontinental Champion and Tag Team Champion

• Founder and former executive of AEW

• Became Undisputed WWE Champion in 2024

Rhodes captured the Undisputed WWE Championship after ending the historic reign of Roman Reigns. That victory cemented him as the face of the company.

He held the title through several successful defenses and became one of WWE’s most popular champions.

However, his reign eventually faced its toughest challenge: Drew McIntyre.

Drew McIntyre’s Path Back to the Top

Drew McIntyre has one of the most inspiring comeback stories in WWE.

Once released by WWE in 2014, McIntyre rebuilt his career on the independent circuit before returning to the company stronger than ever.

Major Career Achievements

• WWE Champion (2020)

• Royal Rumble winner

• Multiple-time world champion

• Undisputed WWE Champion in 2026

McIntyre’s powerful in-ring style and leadership persona earned him the nickname “The Scottish Warrior.”

By 2025, he had positioned himself as the top challenger to Cody Rhodes’ championship reign.

Cody Rhodes vs Drew McIntyre: The Rivalry Explained

The feud between Rhodes and McIntyre escalated throughout 2025.

Both men had strong claims to being the face of WWE:

• Rhodes represented legacy and redemption.

• McIntyre represented dominance and resilience.

Their rivalry became personal after several confrontations on WWE SmackDown, leading to a series of matches.

Fans were particularly excited for their Three Stages of Hell Match, one of WWE’s most brutal stipulations.

The Three Stages of Hell Match

The defining moment of the rivalry occurred during a Three Stages of Hell Match on WWE SmackDown in January 2026.

This match format features three consecutive stipulations:

1. Traditional wrestling match

2. Falls Count Anywhere

3. Steel Cage match

Each fall determines the winner.

The match between Rhodes and McIntyre delivered drama, physicality, and storyline twists.

Who Won: Cody Rhodes vs Drew McIntyre?

In the end, Drew McIntyre defeated Cody Rhodes 2–1 to win the Undisputed WWE Championship.

Here’s how the match unfolded:

First Fall

McIntyre gained the advantage through controversial tactics and a Claymore Kick.

Second Fall

Rhodes fought back and won the Falls Count Anywhere stage, leveling the match.

Third Fall (Steel Cage)

Chaos erupted when Bloodline member Jacob Fatu interfered, attacking Rhodes.

During the distraction, McIntyre escaped the steel cage to win the match and become champion.

The victory shocked fans and marked the start of McIntyre’s new championship reign.

Drew McIntyre as Undisputed WWE Champion

After defeating Cody Rhodes, Drew McIntyre officially became the Undisputed WWE Champion in January 2026.

His reign immediately positioned him as the dominant force on WWE SmackDown.

Key Moments During His Title Run

• Defended the championship at major events

• Retained the title at the 2026 Royal Rumble against Sami Zayn

• Continued feud with Cody Rhodes

McIntyre’s championship run highlighted his aggressive style and determination to prove he deserved the title.

Cody Rhodes’ Response to the Loss

Despite losing the championship, Cody Rhodes refused to back down.

Following the defeat, Rhodes launched several attacks on McIntyre during WWE programming, continuing their intense feud.

Reports from WWE shows indicated that Rhodes vowed to reclaim the title and ensure McIntyre would not reach WrestleMania as champion.

This storyline keeps fans invested in their rivalry.

Previous Matches Between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre

Before the title loss, Rhodes had previously defeated McIntyre in a championship defense.

For example:

• Saturday Night’s Main Event (2025): Rhodes retained the Undisputed WWE Championship against McIntyre.

This shows that their rivalry has been evenly balanced, with both superstars scoring major wins.

Why the Rhodes vs McIntyre Rivalry Is Special

There are several reasons why fans love this feud.

1. Strong Storytelling

Both wrestlers have compelling personal journeys.

2. Physical Matches

Their matches feature intense strikes, power moves, and high drama.

3. Championship Stakes

Almost every match between them involves the WWE Championship.

4. Fan Support

Both superstars have large fan bases, creating divided crowd reactions.

The Future of Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre

The rivalry between Rhodes and McIntyre is far from over.

WWE often builds long-term feuds leading to major events such as:

• Royal Rumble

• Elimination Chamber

• WrestleMania

Many fans expect the two superstars to face each other again in another title match.

If he manages to regain the championship, it could complete another chapter in his redemption story.

Meanwhile, Drew McIntyre will aim to prove his title victory was not a fluke.

Cody Rhodes vs Drew McIntyre: Legacy Impact

Regardless of who wins future matches, their rivalry has already become one of the defining WWE storylines of the mid-2020s.

Both wrestlers represent different generations of WWE:

• Rhodes carries the legacy of his father Dusty Rhodes.

• McIntyre symbolizes perseverance and reinvention.

Their battles for the Undisputed WWE Championship will likely be remembered as classic matches in WWE history.

Conclusion

The feud between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre has produced some of the most exciting WWE matches in recent years.

While Rhodes previously defended his title against McIntyre, the biggest turning point came in January 2026 when Drew McIntyre defeated Cody Rhodes in a Three Stages of Hell Match to become the Undisputed WWE Champion.

This victory changed the landscape of WWE and intensified their rivalry.

With both superstars still competing at the top level, fans can expect many more dramatic encounters between them in the future.

FAQs

Who won Cody Rhodes vs Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship?

Drew McIntyre defeated Cody Rhodes in January 2026 in a Three Stages of Hell match to win the Undisputed WWE Championship.

When did Drew McIntyre become Undisputed WWE Champion?

He won the title on the January 9, 2026 episode of WWE SmackDown.

Did Cody Rhodes ever beat Drew McIntyre?

Yes. Cody Rhodes previously defeated McIntyre to retain the Undisputed WWE Championship at Saturday Night’s Main Event in 2025.

Why did Drew McIntyre win the match?

McIntyre escaped the steel cage during the final stage of the match after interference from Jacob Fatu.

Will Cody Rhodes face Drew McIntyre again?

Their rivalry is ongoing in WWE storylines, and another title match between them is highly possible.