7 Shocking Updates On Drew McIntyre's WWE Future: Contract Status, Injury Scare, And A 'Crazy Stipulation' Title Bout
The Scottish Warrior, Drew McIntyre, is currently at the center of the professional wrestling universe, dominating headlines with a massive contract extension, controversial backstage behavior, and a relentless pursuit of the Undisputed WWE Championship. As of today, December 20, 2025, the biggest story surrounding the former two-time WWE Champion is his long-term commitment to the company and the high-stakes, "crazy stipulation" match he has set up with his current rival, Cody Rhodes. This article breaks down the most recent and critical news updates that will define the remainder of McIntyre’s 2025 and his path into 2026.
The intensity of McIntyre's current run has been palpable, marked by a heel turn that has revitalized his character and led to some of the most compelling television in recent memory. From a brutal injury scare at a major Premium Live Event to a reported suspension and a high-profile negotiation, McIntyre's journey has been anything but smooth. The latest updates confirm he is not only staying with WWE but is poised to be a top-tier main event player for years to come, with a major title match already scheduled for early January 2026.
Drew McIntyre: The Scottish Warrior's Career Biography & Profile
Drew McIntyre, born Andrew Galloway, is one of the most decorated and recognized professional wrestlers of the modern era. His journey from a young prospect to a main event powerhouse is a story of resilience and reinvention.
- Ring Name: Drew McIntyre (formerly Drew Galloway)
- Born: June 6, 1985 (Age: 40 as of Dec 2025)
- Hometown: Ayr, Scotland
- Billed From: Ayr, Scotland
- Height: 6 ft 5 in (196 cm)
- Weight: 265 lb (120 kg)
- WWE Debut: 2007 (First Run); 2017 (Return)
- Signature Moves: Claymore Kick, Future Shock DDT
- Major Championships & Accomplishments (WWE):
- 2x WWE Champion
- 1x Intercontinental Champion
- 2x NXT Champion
- 1x Raw Tag Team Champion (with Dolph Ziggler)
- Men's Royal Rumble Winner (2020)
- Current Status: Main Event Superstar on the SmackDown brand.
The Massive Contract Extension: McIntyre is Not Leaving WWE
One of the most persistent and highly-discussed topics of 2025 was Drew McIntyre's contract status, which had been rumored to be expiring. This speculation fueled months of storyline tension and fan anxiety, but the latest reports have put all doubts to rest.
Long-Term Commitment Secured Until 2028
The Scottish Warrior has officially signed a lengthy contract extension with WWE. Reports from multiple sources indicate that McIntyre's new deal secures his future with the company well into 2028. This is a massive win for WWE and Chief Content Officer Triple H, as McIntyre is viewed internally as one of the top main event talents and a crucial component of the company's global expansion and television deals, including the upcoming move of Raw to Netflix.
The negotiation process was reportedly a complex one, with McIntyre leveraging his renewed popularity and main event status to secure a significant "big money" deal. His decision to re-sign signals his belief in the current creative direction and his prominent role in the company's future plans, dismissing any lingering rumors of a potential jump to other promotions.
Storyline Intensity: The 'Crazy Stipulation' Title Bout
McIntyre's current storyline is heavily focused on his intense, personal rivalry with Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. The feud has been characterized by McIntyre's bitter resentment over his perceived lack of respect and his relentless, often underhanded, attempts to capture the title.
The January 9, 2026, SmackDown Showdown
The rivalry is set to culminate in a major showdown early in the new year. A title bout between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship is officially scheduled for the January 9, 2026, episode of SmackDown. What makes this match particularly noteworthy is the "crazy stipulation" attached to it, which has yet to be fully revealed but is expected to raise the stakes significantly, possibly involving career implications or a unique match type.
Leading up to this, McIntyre has been playing mind games with Rhodes. On the December 19, 2025, episode of SmackDown, Rhodes reportedly agreed to a set of demands made by McIntyre, further complicating the title picture and giving the challenger a psychological edge. This negotiation tactic is a perfect example of McIntyre's current heel persona, which sees him manipulating situations to his advantage.
The 3 Stages of Hell Match Announcement
Adding to the dramatic tension, spoiler results for the December 26, 2025, SmackDown taping reveal that Drew McIntyre is set to make a major return and announce a 3 Stages of Hell match. While the opponent for this brutal stipulation is not explicitly confirmed in the initial announcement, the timing suggests it will be a key component of his ongoing feud, likely with Cody Rhodes or a major player like Randy Orton, who recently replaced him in a match.
The 3 Stages of Hell match is known for its career-shortening brutality and is reserved for the most heated rivalries, signaling that WWE creative is fully committed to presenting McIntyre as a dangerous and main event-level threat heading into the 2026 Royal Rumble season.
Injury Scares and Backstage Controversies of 2025
McIntyre's 2025 was not without its moments of concern, both in the ring and behind the scenes. These incidents contributed to his current character's narrative of frustration and aggression.
Brutal Landing at WWE Backlash 2025
During the WWE Backlash 2025 Premium Live Event, McIntyre was involved in a scary spot that caused significant concern. In a match, he took a devastating South of Heaven Chokeslam from Damian Priest, which resulted in a rough landing where his head hit the floor. This moment led to immediate speculation about a potential injury, with reports suggesting he was dealing with head-related issues and was advised to take an extended break from in-ring action to recover fully.
Despite the nature of the injury, McIntyre's return was relatively quick, showcasing his toughness and dedication, but the incident remains a key point in his 2025 storyline, often referenced by his opponents as a sign of his reckless nature.
The Royal Rumble Incident and Reported Suspension
Further fueling his heel persona, McIntyre confirmed his anger over an incident that occurred backstage at the 2025 WWE Royal Rumble Premium Live Event. While the exact details of the backstage behavior remain speculative, the public acknowledgment of his frustration has been integrated into his current character, portraying him as a disgruntled veteran who feels overlooked despite his talent.
This frustration boiled over into a recent storyline suspension. On the November 7th episode of SmackDown, McIntyre was kayfabe suspended, a move that was used to temporarily write him off television and allow the narrative to build anticipation for his eventual return. This temporary absence was strategically placed to maximize the impact of his December return and the subsequent challenge to Cody Rhodes.
What's Next for The Scottish Warrior in 2026?
With his contract status secured and a major title match scheduled for January 9, 2026, Drew McIntyre is cemented as a top-tier performer for the foreseeable future. The immediate focus is the "crazy stipulation" match against Cody Rhodes. A win would establish him as the Undisputed WWE Champion and set the stage for a massive run leading into WrestleMania.
Even if he loses, his high-profile placement in the 3 Stages of Hell match and his continued presence on SmackDown suggest he will remain in the main event picture. Potential future feuds could involve a renewed rivalry with Randy Orton, a clash with Damian Priest for the World Heavyweight Championship on Raw (if he were to be drafted), or even a showdown with Roman Reigns as the "Bloodline Hunter" narrative is always a possibility for a top face or heel. Fans can expect McIntyre to continue his aggressive, entitled 'Scottish Warrior' persona, making him one of the most compelling figures to watch as WWE heads into the 2026 calendar year.
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