The first night of Smackdown of the New Year kicked off with an entirely unexpected twist to the current WWE storyline. During the first part of SmackDown on January 3, 2025, Drew McIntyre interrupted Rhodes, who was talking about his rivalry with Kevin Owens. Instead of fighting, McIntyre hugged Rhodes. This surprised the fans at the Footprint Centre and even Cody Rhodes himself.
Cody Rhodes started the show talking about his upcoming Ladder Match with Kevin Owens at the Royal Rumble. But before he could continue, Drew McIntyre interrupted. McIntyre shocked the 39-year-old and the fans by giving him a hug.
He mentioned their past together and said Rhodes was close to ruining his life’s work. McIntyre added that, with everything going on, he needed a friend.
Rhodes didn’t trust McIntyre’s words and suggested if McIntyre wanted a WWE Championship shot, he could get it. McIntyre then warned Rhodes, “Watch your back,” which led to Owens attacking Rhodes from behind. This started a brawl, and officials quickly stepped in.
DREW MCINTYRE DEFINITELY SET UP CODY RHODES
— FADE (@FadeAwayMedia) January 4, 2025
WE ABOUT TO GET THE OWENS AND DREW DELUSIONAL DUO
LMFAOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/RX206pf0SL
Later backstage, Jey Uso and Kevin Owens also had a strange stare-down, hinting something unusual could happen in WWE’s future. With so many storylines crossing over, it wouldn’t be surprising if McIntyre got involved in the Rhodes vs. Owens feud.
Cody Rhodes says he’s not cleared to compete
It may sound funny, but Cody Rhodes is still not cleared to wrestle. During the January 3 episode of WWE SmackDown, Cody Rhodes gave an update on his health. He stated that his injuries from a previous attack on SNME are still healing, preventing him from competing yet.
It’s quite funny to me Kevin is the reason I’m not medically cleared to compete. But yet here I stand before you alive and well. Ready to pick a fight with that man and I’ll be dammed if I’m told otherwise. pic.twitter.com/frVBdcPlF0
— The Story Continues. ✮ NOT @CodyRhodes. (@FollowsTheDream) January 4, 2025
Fans believed he might have fully recovered after a recent Steel Cage match with Kevin Owens on the holiday tour, but that segment has no relevance to TV programs. However, fans hope he will be ready soon for important events in the story. Additionally, fans anticipate Cody’s appearance on the January 6 WWE Raw Netflix show.
