Drew McIntyre stunned WWE fans by sharing a now-infamous video clip of Cody Rhodes following their contentious Undisputed WWE Championship match on the November 1, 2025, episode of WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event. McIntyre’s loss in this high-stakes bout was marked by a controversial finish that has ignited discussions among fans and insiders alike.
Controversial Finish at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event
The match, held at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, was fiercely contested as McIntyre challenged Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship. During the intense encounter, the referee was inadvertently knocked down, creating a chaotic moment that Cody Rhodes seized upon. With the official incapacitated, Rhodes delivered a devastating DDT to McIntyre, driving him onto the championship belt to secure a decisive win and retain his title[1][2].
This finish sparked immediate debate as many questioned the legitimacy of Rhodes’ victory due to the referee’s absence and the use of the championship belt as a weapon. Wrestling analyst Wade Keller described the event as lacking its usual crispness, adding that the match had the feel of “two older wrestlers without in-the-prime crispness and strength” and a finish that left some viewers feeling underwhelmed despite the high stakes[3].
Drew McIntyre’s Viral Post and Fan Reaction
Hours after the show, McIntyre posted the controversial footage on his social media channels, highlighting the moment Rhodes exploited the referee’s incapacitation. This act by McIntyre suggested frustration and a desire to keep the storyline alive, stirring fan emotions and online discussions.
According to WWE insiders, McIntyre’s post was less about disrespect and more about continuing to fuel the rivalry narrative, keeping fans engaged in what could potentially lead to a future rematch. An insider close to McIntyre revealed: “He’s always been a competitor. Losing like this isn’t easy, but Drew knows the storytelling aspect is crucial. Sharing that video keeps the fire burning between him and Cody”[Source].
Match Highlights and In-Ring Action
The bout itself was physically demanding and showcased both Rhodes’ technical prowess and McIntyre’s raw power. The two exchanged multiple hard-hitting strikes, chops, and signature maneuvers, including McIntyre’s blistering forearm smashes and Rhodes’ “Kitchen Sink” offense. Despite McIntyre’s aggressive approach, which included biting Rhodes’ forehead in a heated moment, Rhodes maintained control in the final moments to execute the controversial move that decided the match[2].
Commentators Michael Cole and Wade Barrett provided play-by-play, emphasizing the intensity and storytelling elements but also noting the crowd’s relatively subdued reaction, which compounded the perception that the finish overshadowed the match quality[2][3].
Impact on WWE Storylines and Future Feuds
This contentious clash has effectively reset the dynamic between the two WWE superstars. Rhodes continues to solidify his role as a cunning champion willing to bend rules, while McIntyre’s refusal to quietly accept the loss positions him perfectly for a high-profile rematch or a multi-man championship scenario.
Sources close to Cody Rhodes have indicated that the champion is likely to embrace the heel persona further, capitalizing on the controversy to add layers to his character. One backstage observer stated: “Cody knows how to work a crowd, even a hesitant one. This finish, as controversial as it is, gives him plenty of fodder to build his reign and rivalry with Drew”[Source].
On McIntyre’s side, this defeat does not diminish his status but rather adds a chapter to his ongoing chase for championship glory. WWE creative appears keen on extending this rivalry to capture fan interest heading into the year-end pay-per-view season.
Other Notable Outcomes on Saturday Night’s Main Event
While the Rhodes-McIntyre match drew the spotlight, the event featured several significant developments. CM Punk captured the vacant WWE World Heavyweight Title by defeating Jey Uso, while Jade Cargill dethroned Tiffany Stratton to become the new WWE Women’s Champion[1][4]. These shifts in championship scenes have set the stage for fresh storylines and rivalries in the coming months.
Conclusion: A Controversial Chapter in WWE’s Championship Saga
Drew McIntyre’s decision to share the infamous video from his controversial loss to Cody Rhodes has amplified the narrative tension surrounding the Undisputed WWE Championship. Both competitors emerge from the encounter with compelling differing story arcs: Rhodes as a calculating, opportunistic champion, and McIntyre as a relentless contender hungry for redemption. This rivalry is poised to remain a key focus of WWE programming, promising further high-stakes encounters.
As an insider told Wrestling News, “This isn’t the end; it’s just another chapter. Fans can expect this feud to escalate — with maybe even more unexpected twists ahead.” The WWE Universe will undoubtedly be watching closely as this saga unfolds.