Cody Rhodes’ second reign as the Undisputed WWE Champion ended on the January 9 edition of SmackDown. The American Nightmare was defeated by Drew McIntyre in a Three Stages of Hell Match, with Jacob Fatu’s return playing a big role in the third and decisive fall.
Fatu first hit McIntyre, but then turned his attention to Rhodes, allowing the Scottish Warrior the chance to escape the cage to win the match 2-1. The show went off air with McIntyre retreating up the ramp and Rhodes staring at him in shock. Now, fan footage has surfaced of the Quarterback of WWE looking visibly distraught.
Despite fans applauding his effort in the brutal match, Rhodes was quite upset, and it was evident from his body language.
Watch the video of Rhodes’ reaction to losing his title below:
Drew McIntyre reacts to winning the Undisputed Championship from Cody Rhodes
McIntyre won the first fall after hitting Cody Rhodes with a low blow, followed by a Claymore Kick. He lost the second fall after being driven through the announce table with a Cross Rhodes, but the interference from Jacob Fatu allowed him enough time to crawl out of the cage and win the third fall.
The Scottish Warrior is now a world champion for a fourth time and has managed to overcome his bitter rival after months of animosity between the two.
On Instagram, he uploaded a picture of himself sleeping happily with his newly won WWE Title. Meanwhile, on X/Twitter, he uploaded a black and white picture of himself with the championship on his shoulder, and wrote:
“No longer bored at work.”
The new champion will have to defend his title at the Royal Rumble Premium Live Event against the winner of the Fatal Four-Way Match announced for Saturday Night’s Main Event XLIII by Nick Aldis.
