Drew McIntyre Defends, Cody Rhodes Challenges: Road to Wrestlepalooza Heats Up
On the September 12, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown, drew mcintyre emerged victorious against Randy Orton in a hard-fought main event. However, the night’s biggest advancement wasn’t just McIntyre’s win, but the shocking return of Cody Rhodes and his immediate challenge for Wrestlepalooza. This sets the stage for a potentially explosive showdown between the two top stars.
A Brutal Encounter Between Veteran and Champion
The match between Orton and McIntyre proved to be a physical battle,extending beyond the confines of the ring. McIntyre skillfully avoided an early DDT attempt, forcing the action to the ringside area. Orton responded with a series of powerful moves, including two thunderous side suplexes delivered onto the announce table.
Orton then sent McIntyre back into the ring, only to be met with a devastating Claymore Kick. Later, Orton managed to connect with his signature RKO, but McIntyre cleverly rolled out of the ring to avoid a pinfall attempt. As McIntyre attempted to re-enter, Orton caught him with a draping DDT.
The Apex Predator then signaled for his infamous punt kick,but the referee intervened to prevent the move. Orton repositioned, but McIntyre evaded the attempt, and briefly tried to push Orton into the referee. Orton resisted, and as he turned back towards his opponent, he was blindsided by a second Claymore Kick from McIntyre, securing the pinfall victory.
Rhodes Returns, Issues a Wrestlepalooza Challenge
Following his victory, McIntyre removed Orton from the ring, seemingly asserting his dominance. But the crowd erupted as Cody Rhodes sprinted to the ring, delivering a Cody cutter to the champion. Rhodes seized the microphone, declaring, “The champ is back. We can do this at Wrestlepalooza.”
This confrontation promptly elevates Wrestlepalooza into a must-see event for wrestling fans. You can expect a fierce rivalry to build between McIntyre and Rhodes in the coming weeks.
Wrestlepalooza: Updated Card (September 20, 2025)
The Wrestlepalooza card is rapidly taking shape, promising a night of unforgettable action. Here’s the current lineup:
* Cody Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre: A clash of titans sparked by Rhodes’ dramatic return.
* Vacant Women’s World Championship: IYO SKY vs. Stephanie Vaquer: A battle for the newly vacated title.
* Jimmy & Jey Uso vs. Bron Breakker & Bronson Reed: A tag team showdown featuring two of WWE’s most formidable duos.
* CM punk & AJ lee vs.Seth Rollins & Becky Lynch: A dream match-up pitting two legendary pairings against each other.
* John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar: A long-awaited rematch between two of wrestling’s biggest names.
This event is shaping up to be one of the biggest of the year. You won’t wont to miss it.
Cody Rhodes is Drew McIntyre’s biggest nightmare! #SmackDown #WWE pic.twitter.com/45cAVa5AU4
– USA Network (@USANetwork) September 13, 2025
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