Drew McIntyre Defends WWE Booking Despite Backlash After Undisputed Title Loss

TLDR

Drew McIntyre defended WWE's booking decision after losing the Undisputed WWE Championship to Cody Rhodes on the March 6, 2026 episode of WWE Friday Night SmackDown, despite fan backlash calling him a "transitional champion." Speaking to Chris Van Vliet on April 2, McIntyre acknowledged his personal disappointment but explained that the title change was part of WWE's strategy to create multiple big matches for WrestleMania 42's two-night format. McIntyre will face Jacob Fatu in an Unsanctioned match at WrestleMania 42, which he views as part of his ongoing storyline following his actions against Cody Rhodes.