The latest WWE SmackDown episode delivered high drama as WWE Champion Cody Rhodes successfully retained his title via disqualification, while The Vision solidified its WarGames team with a crucial fourth member ahead of the brutal San Diego event. Though Rhodes walked away with the championship intact, the night set the stage for a tense build-up to WarGames with new dynamics in play.
Cody Rhodes Retains WWE Title in a Chaotic Match
Cody Rhodes faced a fierce challenge last Friday on SmackDown, defending his WWE Championship in a match that ended in a controversial disqualification. Rhodes was tested thoroughly by his opponent, Bronson Reed, who has been on a rising trajectory in WWE’s main event scene. The match escalated into chaos when interference and distractions disrupted the flow, resulting in the referee calling for a disqualification to protect the champion[5].
This outcome ensured Rhodes retains the WWE title, but it also highlighted the simmering tensions within the roster as the road to WarGames intensifies. According to sources close to Cody Rhodes, the champion remains laser-focused on his broader mission, seeing this as just a “necessary bump” on the road to a bigger goal.
“Cody is grinding every day, not just to keep his belt, but because he wants to make history at WarGames,” a WWE insider shared. “This match was about sending a message he’s not going to lose the title easily, but his team has to be ready for the fight ahead.”[5]
The Vision Secures Fourth WarGames Teammate: Drew McIntyre Returns
Perhaps the biggest headline from SmackDown was The Vision’s expansion as they unveiled their fourth WarGames team member—Drew McIntyre. His dramatic return was facilitated by a clever loophole that allowed McIntyre to rejoin the faction after a brief absence, giving The Vision a much-needed power boost[5].
The assembly of McIntyre alongside Rhodes, Bronson Reed, and Jey Uso signals a strategic move by The Vision to dominate the intense WarGames battleground. The inclusion of McIntyre, a former WWE Champion and a proven warhorse, adds invaluable experience and raw power to the squad.
WWE insiders suggest this surprise addition could shift the momentum of the WarGames storyline, heightening expectations for the upcoming San Diego event.
“Bringing Drew back has reinvigorated The Vision. Everyone knows what he brings to the table in a high-stakes environment like WarGames,” a backstage source revealed. “This isn’t just about going toe-to-toe—it’s about making sure The Vision rules the cage and walks out victorious.”[5]
WarGames Hype: What This Means for San Diego
WarGames is known for its brutal, multi-person steel cage matches that demand both endurance and teamwork. With Cody Rhodes leading The Vision and now reinforced by Drew McIntyre, Team Vision looks poised to be a dominant force in this year’s event.
However, the night was not just about The Vision’s strategy. The ongoing rivalries and storylines intersecting with WarGames promise a night of high drama and explosive action. The disqualification finish on SmackDown hints at more interference and chaotic twists looming in the days ahead.
As tensions rise, the stakes for Rhodes and his teammates couldn’t be higher maintaining their unity and focus is critical to overcoming The Wyatt Sicks and other opponents who are determined to dismantle The Vision.
Additional SmackDown Highlights Reinforce the Rising Drama
While the WWE title match and WarGames team announcements stole the show, SmackDown was packed with excitement from start to finish. Key moments include:
Giulia capturing the Women’s United States Championship after a hard-fought victory over Zelina Vega, cementing her status as a rising star[1][8].
The Street Profits retaining their WWE Tag Team Titles amidst chaos with Dexter Lumis and Joe Gacy, underscoring the volatile tag division leading into future pay-per-views[1].
Intense face-offs between other top stars such as John Cena, Randy Orton, and LA Knight further added to the mounting rivalries heating up WWE’s summer and fall calendar[4][7].
Backstage Buzz: Focus on Long-Term Storytelling
WWE creative appears committed to weaving together deeply personal stories with high-octane in-ring action. Cody Rhodes’s quest for redemption and long-term dominance is a key narrative driving many plot points.
A WWE insider commented:
“Rhodes isn’t just another champion—his journey is layered with redemption, legacy, and the hunger to surpass legends. This gives every match and faction battle added emotional weight.”
This approach is generating significant fan interest as raw athleticism and storytelling merge into a compelling spectacle designed to culminate at WarGames and beyond.