3 Directions for Drew McIntyre at SummerSlam 2026

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With SummerSlam approaching, Triple H has an opportunity to immediately thrust McIntyre back into a high-profile storyline. Given everything that has transpired during his absence, there are several intriguing directions available for the former world champion.

That said, in this article, we look at three ways WWE could book Drew McIntyre at SummerSlam 2026.

#3. Drew McIntyre could return to finish his war with Jacob Fatu

If WWE wants to pick up where things left off, Jacob Fatu is the obvious choice.

The rivalry between Drew McIntyre and Fatu was one of the most physical feuds heading into WrestleMania 42. The two superstars repeatedly tried to destroy each other. Thus, culminating in an Unsanctioned Match on The Grandest Stage of Them All. Fatu ultimately emerged victorious, earning arguably the biggest win of his WWE career.

However, the result didn’t necessarily feel like the end of the story. McIntyre’s absence since WrestleMania has left plenty of unanswered questions. The former WWE Champion has built his recent character around holding grudges and seeking revenge against those who have wronged him. Hence, it would be completely in character for him to return with one goal in mind: making The Samoan Werewolf pay.

The timing could be perfect. Fatu remains one of WWE’s most protected stars and is now part of The Bloodline. The company has spent months establishing him as a future main-event player. Thus, a renewed rivalry with Drew would only strengthen that perception.

The story also writes itself. The Scottish Warrior could argue that he underestimated Jacob Fatu at ‘Mania and paid the price. However, this time, he would be more focused and more dangerous than ever. The feud wouldn’t even need a championship attached to it. The personal animosity alone would be enough to justify a major SummerSlam showdown.

Given their chemistry and history, WWE could easily produce another premium live event classic between the two men.

#2. Drew McIntyre could set his sights on Cody Rhodes and the Undisputed WWE Championship

Before his rivalry with Jacob Fatu took center stage, Drew McIntyre spent much of early 2026 involved in the WWE Championship picture. That’s why a feud with Cody Rhodes would make perfect sense.

The American Nightmare remains one of the company’s biggest stars and continues to carry the Undisputed WWE Championship. Since reclaiming the title from McIntyre, Rhodes has successfully positioned himself as the face of SmackDown and one of the company’s premier attractions.

McIntyre could immediately challenge that position. One of the most compelling aspects of Drew’s current character is his belief that he never receives the opportunities he deserves. Hence, he could claim that Rhodes took away his opportunity to main event WrestleMania 42.

That frustration could become the foundation of a fantastic rivalry. Also, the contrast between the two men would create compelling television. Cody Rhodes represents hope, perseverance, and achieving your dreams. Meanwhile, Drew McIntyre has evolved into a bitter and increasingly ruthless competitor who feels the wrestling world has forgotten everything he sacrificed during WWE’s difficult years.

If Triple H and his creative team want to give Cody Rhodes a compelling SummerSlam challenger while immediately re-establishing McIntyre as a main-event star, this may be the ideal route.

#1. Drew McIntyre could become Roman Reigns’ next challenger

Perhaps the biggest possible direction for Drew McIntyre heading into SummerSlam is Roman Reigns.

Following WrestleMania 42, Reigns once again finds himself sitting atop WWE as the World Heavyweight Champion. The Tribal Chief defeated CM Punk on The Grandest Stage of Them All and has continued strengthening his position as the dominant force on RAW.

While several superstars could emerge as potential challengers, few possess the credibility necessary to make fans genuinely believe they can dethrone Roman. Drew McIntyre is one of those rare exceptions.

The Scottish Warrior has spent years establishing himself as one of WWE’s elite performers. He is a former world champion, a Royal Rumble winner, and a proven main-event attraction. More importantly, he has enough physical presence to stand across the ring from the OTC without looking like an underdog.

That’s an important distinction. Many challengers spend weeks trying to convince fans they belong in the ring with the Tribal Chief. McIntyre doesn’t have that problem. His accomplishments speak for themselves.

The story would practically write itself. While The Scottish Warrior has been absent, Roman Reigns has continued dominating the main-event scene. A returning Drew could argue that he’s tired of watching the same people occupy the spotlight while deserving competitors are pushed aside. His frustration would be believable.

Over the last few years, Drew McIntyre has repeatedly come close to reclaiming the top spot in WWE, only to have circumstances derail his momentum. Whether it was interference, controversial losses, or outside distractions, something has always stood in his way. Roman Reigns could become the latest obstacle.

Unlike many of Roman’s recent feuds, this rivalry wouldn’t need to revolve around Bloodline politics. Instead, WWE could focus on two battle-tested veterans fighting for supremacy. The story would center on legacy, championships, and the desire to remain at the top of the industry.

From a match-quality standpoint, it is difficult to find a stronger option. Roman Reigns vs. Drew McIntyre has proven to be a successful formula in the past, and both men have evolved significantly since their previous encounters. Hence, their experience, star power, and credibility would instantly make the bout feel worthy of headlining SummerSlam.

If Triple H wants to make a statement with Drew McIntyre’s return, putting him opposite the World Heavyweight Champion would accomplish exactly that.

The Scottish Warrior has spent years proving he belongs among WWE’s elite. Hence, SummerSlam 2026 could be the perfect opportunity for him to remind the world once again.