WWE made a major call just hours before the bell rang for the Three Stages of Hell match between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. While the physicality and layout of the match were already mapped out, the actual finish wasn’t finalized with the talent until just before the show began.
According to Bodyslam.net, the Superstars involved in the Undisputed WWE Championship match were only informed of the plans a few hours prior. Multiple plans had been pitched, but WWE ultimately went with the scenario that saw Drew McIntyre walk away as champion — thanks in part to an unexpected assist from Jacob Fatu. The interference helped close the door on Cody’s title reign and shifted the momentum heading into WrestleMania season.
This kind of last-minute creative call signals WWE’s increased willingness to let storylines remain fluid until the very end, especially when it involves high-stakes championship matches.
What do you think of WWE waiting until show day to lock in the finish? Did the match pay off in the way it needed to, or did it leave too much to chance? Let us know in the comments.