Cody Rhodes won the WWE Championship for the second time in his career when he defeated John Cena in the night two main event at SummerSlam last month. Since then The American Nightmare has had a target on his back and Drew McIntyre took it upon himself to put Rhodes through the announce table with a Claymore during the August 8th episode of SmackDown.
Recently Cody Rhodes returned to WWE, and he confirmed that he would be defending his Undisputed WWE Championship against Drew McIntyre in the main event at WrestlePalooza.
At one point Drew McIntyre ripped the turnbuckle pad off the top and threw it to the outside. Drew pushed Cody into the ropes and the referee left the ring to avoid getting hit. Cody then pushed Drew into the turnbuckle and followed up with Cross Rhodes for a two count.
Drew went for a Claymore, but his leg gave out. Cody then countered with a Cody Cutter followed by the Cross Rhodes to retain the Undisputed WWE Championship. The American Nightmare celebrated as WrestlePalooza went off the air.
STATEMENT. MADE.
Cody Rhodes stands tall at #Wrestlepalooza to remain WWE Champion! #AndStill pic.twitter.com/Z2HoTPGh3E
— WWE (@WWE) September 21, 2025