WWE opened its 2026 European tour with a historic moment as Drew McIntyre defeated Cody Rhodes to become the new Undisputed WWE Champion during SmackDown in Berlin, Germany.
The title change came in a brutal Three Stages of Hell main event that delivered chaos, controversy, and a shocking finish. McIntyre took the first fall after distracting the referee, landing a low blow, and following with a Claymore Kick. The result stunned fans, given Rhodes’ reputation for resilience.
Rhodes responded in the Falls Count Anywhere stage, battling McIntyre through the arena and backstage areas. Creative attacks, including a guardrail splash through a table, led to Rhodes winning the second fall with Cross Rhodes on the announce desk.
The final steel cage stage produced multiple near falls and dramatic escapes. Just as McIntyre attempted to leave the cage, Jacob Fatu returned and initially stopped him. Moments later, Fatu attacked both men, reinforcing his lone wolf persona. While Rhodes was distracted by the brawl, McIntyre slipped out of the cage to secure the final fall and the championship.
The match ended with Rhodes sending Fatu into the cage as McIntyre celebrated his long awaited title victory.
Elsewhere on the show, Trick Williams defeated Rey Fenix in his first SmackDown match, Giulia retained the Women’s United States Championship against Alexa Bliss, Jordynne Grace defeated Alba Fyre, and Carmelo Hayes retained the Men’s United States title against Shinsuke Nakamura.
The episode also set up several future contenders, with WWE announcing four qualifying matches to determine the next challenger for McIntyre’s championship at an upcoming event in Saudi Arabia.
SmackDown’s Berlin broadcast marked a major turning point in WWE’s 2026 season, signaling a new era at the top of the company with Drew McIntyre finally standing as undisputed champion.
