McIntyre frames Berlin showdown as a turning point for WWE
Summary
– Drew McIntyre challenges the status quo heading into SmackDown
– 3 Stages of Hell match set against Cody Rhodes in Berlin
– McIntyre positions himself as the catalyst for a new era
Drew McIntyre is not treating his upcoming title match as business as usual. With SmackDown set to take place in Berlin, McIntyre has made it clear that he sees this moment as larger than a championship opportunity. To him, it represents a necessary shift in WWE’s power structure.
McIntyre has openly acknowledged Cody Rhodes’ success as champion, but he argues that stability at the top has created complacency. He believes WWE thrives on disruption and insists that his presence brings danger rather than comfort. That mindset has fueled his approach to the feud since it began late last year.
The 3 Stages of Hell stipulation adds another layer to the confrontation. The match will unfold across a traditional wrestling bout, a “Falls Count Anywhere” match, and a steel cage finale. McIntyre has embraced the format as a test of identity rather than endurance.
In recent promos, McIntyre has leaned into the idea that breaking Rhodes down could ultimately strengthen him. He has portrayed the match as something that forces both men to confront who they really are once everything familiar is stripped away.
SmackDown in Berlin now carries the weight of potential change. Whether McIntyre succeeds or fails, he has made it clear that the outcome will define how he views himself moving forward.
Friday feels like the biggest match of my career?
All the talk. All the mind games. Everything over the last 2 years means nothing if I leave Germany without the belt.
A new era….
This is it. pic.twitter.com/C5EEGILQKg
— Drew (@DMcIntyreWWE) January 6, 2026
