The Undisputed WWE Championship changed hands on the March 6 episode of SmackDown. Cody Rhodes challenged Drew McIntyre in a highly anticipated rematch ordered by SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis.
The bout came together after McIntyre repeatedly interfered in Rhodes’ matches in recent weeks, including costing him a key opportunity at Elimination Chamber. Aldis responded by booking the rematch, setting the stage for a tense showdown between the two rivals.
What followed was a chaotic and physical contest. The momentum constantly changed hands and kept the championship picture hanging in the balance until the final moments.
Cody Rhodes Overcomes Chaos To Capture the Undisputed WWE Championship
The match erupted quickly, with Rhodes chasing McIntyre up the ramp immediately after the opening bell. The fight spilled across the ringside as both men traded heavy offense before finally settling inside the ring.
The WWE Champion gained momentum with suplexes and a punishing backbreaker on the ring steps, focusing heavily on Rhodes’ arm. Cody Rhodes fought back with a snap powerslam and a Cody Cutter, but McIntyre continued targeting the injured limb.
The chaos escalated when the action spilled onto the announce desk, which collapsed during a struggle between the two competitors. Later, McIntyre powerbombed Rhodes through a table at ringside and even attempted a Cross Rhodes of his own inside the ring.
Momentum shifted again when referee Charles Robinson was accidentally knocked down during a springboard attempt by Rhodes, leaving the match temporarily without an official.
As the drama intensified, McIntyre retrieved a steel chair, but the situation took an unexpected turn when Jacob Fatu appeared and removed the weapon before it could be used.
Rhodes capitalized on the distraction and nearly secured the victory with a quick roll-up. Moments later, McIntyre hit a Claymore Kick, but Rhodes survived the impact.
The finish arrived when Rhodes countered another Claymore attempt and delivered an avalanche of Cody Cutter, followed by Cross Rhodes to secure the pinfall victory.
With the win, Cody Rhodes became the new Undisputed WWE Champion.
The result also sets the stage for a major showdown at WrestleMania 42. Cody Rhodes now faces Randy Orton in a match that has massive history and future ramifications behind it.
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