The stakes have never been higher for Cody Rhodes as he prepares to defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Drew McIntyre at Saturday Night’s Main Event. In a dramatic turn of events on the Halloween edition of WWE SmackDown, Rhodes agreed to a dangerous new stipulation that could see him lose the title not just by pinfall or submission, but also by disqualification or countout.
A Contract Signing Turns Into a Powder Keg
Friday night’s SmackDown closed with a high-stakes contract signing between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre, set to headline Saturday Night’s Main Event. What was supposed to be a formality quickly escalated into a heated confrontation, as McIntyre refused to sign the contract unless the rules were changed.
McIntyre reminded Rhodes and the WWE Universe that their last encounter ended in controversy, with Rhodes retaining the title after a disqualification. The Scottish Warrior argued that the current rules favored the champion, giving him a safety net in the event of another chaotic finish. “It’s lopsided,” McIntyre declared, refusing to put pen to paper until the stipulation was flipped.
Rhodes Takes the Bait
After some back-and-forth, Rhodes, never one to back down from a challenge, accepted McIntyre’s demand. “110% fine with that,” Rhodes said, agreeing to the new clause. According to a WWE insider, Rhodes was adamant about moving forward with the match, even as SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis warned him against the risk. “I don’t give a damn,” Rhodes reportedly told Aldis, locking in the stipulation that could cost him the title if he’s disqualified or counted out.
This marks a significant shift in WWE title matches, where champions have traditionally retained on DQ or countout. Now, Rhodes will have to be more careful than ever, knowing that any reckless move or loss of control could hand the championship to McIntyre.
McIntyre’s Mind Games Pay Off
Drew McIntyre’s manipulation of the situation was masterful. By refusing to sign and calling out the perceived unfairness, he forced Rhodes into a corner. The champion, eager to settle their rivalry once and for all, took the bait. McIntyre’s strategy was clear: he wanted to remove any safety net for Rhodes and ensure that the title could change hands in any scenario.
The contract signing turned personal when McIntyre brought up Rhodes’ family, referencing the fact that Rhodes wasn’t spending Halloween with his daughters. This was the final straw for Rhodes, who snapped and attempted to strike McIntyre with the WWE Championship belt. McIntyre dodged, and after a brief brawl, laid out Rhodes with a Claymore and powerbombed him through a table.
The Fallout and What’s at Stake
The fallout from the contract signing has left the WWE Universe buzzing. Rhodes’ decision to accept the stipulation could be seen as a sign of confidence—or a reckless gamble. McIntyre, on the other hand, now has everything to gain and nothing to lose. If he can force Rhodes into a disqualification or countout, he walks away as the new Undisputed WWE Champion.
Sources close to Cody Rhodes revealed that the champion is aware of the risks but believes he can outsmart McIntyre. “Cody knows he’s walking a tightrope, but he’s determined to prove he’s the better man, no matter the circumstances,” the source said. “He’s not afraid of McIntyre, but he’s also not underestimating him.”
The Road to Saturday Night’s Main Event
The buildup to Saturday Night’s Main Event has been intense, with both men trading barbs and physical confrontations. McIntyre’s relentless pursuit of the title has been fueled by his belief that he’s been wronged in the past, while Rhodes has been trying to prove that he’s not just a champion by default, but by merit.
The new stipulation adds an extra layer of drama to what was already a must-see match. Fans will be watching closely to see if Rhodes can keep his cool and avoid any mistakes that could cost him the title. McIntyre, meanwhile, will be looking for any opportunity to exploit the rules and claim the championship.
What This Means for WWE
The decision to allow the title to change hands by DQ or countout is a bold move by WWE, signaling a willingness to shake up the status quo and create more unpredictable outcomes. It also puts more pressure on champions to be disciplined and strategic, knowing that any misstep could have dire consequences.
For Cody Rhodes, this is a defining moment in his career. He’s already overcome so much to reach the top, but now he faces his toughest challenge yet. Drew McIntyre is a proven champion and a relentless competitor, and with the new stipulation in play, anything can happen.
Final Thoughts
As Saturday Night’s Main Event approaches, all eyes will be on Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. The new stipulation has raised the stakes and added an extra layer of intrigue to their already heated rivalry. Rhodes has put everything on the line, and now he must prove that he’s not just a champion, but a fighter who can overcome any obstacle.
According to a WWE insider, “This is the kind of match that could define careers. Cody’s decision to accept the stipulation shows he’s willing to take risks, but it also leaves him vulnerable. Drew McIntyre is a dangerous opponent, and with the title on the line in any scenario, this could be one of the most unpredictable title matches in recent memory.”
The stage is set, the stakes are high, and the outcome is anyone’s guess. Saturday Night’s Main Event promises to be a night to remember, with the Undisputed WWE Championship hanging in the balance.