Cody Rhodes Celebrates WWE Title Amid Contract Standoff with Drew McIntyre

The WWE is building major anticipation around the Undisputed WWE Championship match between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre, highlighted by a tense contract signing segment on SmackDown that ended in chaos with McIntyre attacking Rhodes. Rhodes, who returned to WWE as a top star and current champion, celebrated a WWE cameraman's birthday after the show, displaying his connection with fans. The rivalry has spilled over into social media, with Brandi Rhodes mocking McIntyre's ring attire, adding personal fuel to the feud. Besides this headline match, SmackDown will feature other significant bouts and storylines, including Jade Cargill challenging Tiffany Stratton for the Women's Championship and Ilja Dragunov's U.S. Title open challenge. Meanwhile, discussions continue about Rhodes' character direction, with some fans and insiders debating whether he should turn heel, though notable figures like Bully Ray argue against it, emphasizing Rhodes' appeal to younger audiences. WWE is also exploring potential storylines involving Rhodes' half-brother Dustin to deepen his character development if a heel turn occurs.