Drew McIntyre’s thirst for revenge backfired spectacularly at Wrestlepalooza, leading to a self-inflicted injury that directly cost him the Undisputed WWE Championship in his main event bout against Cody Rhodes.
The pivotal moment occurred when McIntyre attempted to recreate his brutal attack from a few weeks prior, aiming to kick Rhodes’ head through the announce table. The move went completely awry, and the Scottish Warrior was seen immediately clutching his right leg in clear pain.
This injury proved decisive. Later in the match, McIntyre’s leg gave out as he attempted a Claymore Kick, creating the exact opening Rhodes needed to hit a Super Cody Cutter followed by the Cross Rhodes to retain his title on WWE’s debut event on ESPN.
Following the loss, McIntyre posted an image to his social media showcasing the inspirational cycle that suffering builds character, though no official word has been given on the nature or extent of the injury.
On the official Wrestlepalooza post-show, Rhodes acknowledged the animosity of their feud but showed his opponent respect.
“I would like to take a moment, everything that’s happened, put my head through a desk, all those things, but I have to offer up respect in some sort of reverence. Drew McIntyre is the real deal. Real deal.”
When questioned about capitalizing on McIntyre’s costly mistake, Rhodes attributed it to veteran instinct.
“Being a student of the game, I suppose… anyone who’s been in the game a long time and they’re a veteran in it, after a certain amount of time, the game speed picks up. The moves get more dangerous. Things get more wild.”
However, the night’s drama wasn’t over for the champion. During the same broadcast, which aired on ESPN Unlimited, Rhodes’ victory speech was cut off by the entrance music of World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins.
Rollins marched out and confronted the Undisputed WWE Champion. Without a single word being exchanged, both men raised their respective titles in a tense staredown, immediately signaling a future champion-versus-champion clash.
That speculation was quickly made official. Michael Cole later announced that Rhodes and Rollins are confirmed to face each other at the Crown Jewel premium live event in Australia next month for the Crown Jewel Championship. While the possibility of a rematch with McIntyre had been floated for Survivor Series, it is now clear that Rollins is the next major challenger for The American Nightmare.