Cody Rhodes vs. Drew mcintyre: A Deep Dive into SmackDown’s Three Stages of Hell Match
WWE fans are in for a treat this Friday, January 9, 2026, as SmackDown emanates live from Berlin, Germany, and hosts a monumental clash between Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. The stakes are incredibly high, as these two titans will compete in a rare and brutal Three Stages of Hell Match for the championship title. [[1]] Here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated event, including how to watch and what to expect.
What is a Three Stages of Hell Match?
The Three Stages of Hell Match is a notably grueling stipulation in professional wrestling, designed to test the limits of endurance, strategy, and sheer willpower.Unlike a standard wrestling match, this contest unfolds across three distinct phases, each with its own unique set of rules and challenges. While the specific stages can vary, they typically escalate in brutality and risk. [[3]]
Traditionally, the stages have included:
- stage 1: Standard Wrestling Match: the match begins as a conventional one-on-one contest, adhering to standard wrestling rules.
- Stage 2: Steel Cage Match: If neither competitor achieves victory in the first stage, the action moves inside a steel cage. This eliminates the possibility of escapes and intensifies the physicality.
- Stage 3: Falls Count Anywhere Match: The final and most chaotic stage sees the match become a Falls Count Anywhere bout, meaning a pinfall or submission can occur anywhere within the arena and its immediate surroundings.
This escalating format forces competitors to adapt their strategies and push themselves to their absolute limits, making it a captivating spectacle for fans.
The Road to Berlin: Rhodes vs. McIntyre
The rivalry between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre has been building for months, fueled by ambition, respect, and a clash of ideologies. McIntyre, a former WWE Champion, has been relentlessly pursuing a rematch for the title, believing he was unfairly stripped of the opportunity. Rhodes, having overcome his own obstacles to reach the pinnacle of the wrestling world, is determined to maintain his reign and prove he is the true champion. [[2]]
Their confrontations have been marked by intense promos,physical altercations,and a growing sense of animosity. This Three Stages of Hell Match represents the culmination of their feud, promising a definitive showdown that will leave a lasting impact on the WWE landscape.
How to Watch WWE SmackDown Live from Berlin
For fans eager to witness this epic battle, here are the details on how to tune in:
- Date: Friday, January 9, 2026
- Time: Check your local listings for start time.
- Location: Uber Arena, Berlin, Germany
- Streaming: Peacock
- TV Channel: USA Network
What’s at Stake?
The Undisputed WWE Championship is, of course, the ultimate prize. for Cody Rhodes, a victory would solidify his position as the top star in WWE and further cement his legacy. For Drew McIntyre,it represents a chance at redemption and a return to the glory he believes he deserves. beyond the title, this match is about pride, respect, and the opportunity to prove oneself as the dominant force in WWE.
Beyond the Championship Match: What Else to Expect on SmackDown
While the Three Stages of Hell Match is the main event, SmackDown in Berlin is expected to feature other compelling storylines and matches. Stay tuned for updates on the full match card as they become available.
Looking Ahead
The outcome of this match will undoubtedly have notable ramifications for the future of WWE. Whether cody Rhodes continues his championship reign or Drew McIntyre reclaims his spot at the top, this encounter is poised to be a defining moment in both their careers. Don’t miss the action live from Berlin!
