WWE SmackDown Jan. 2 Results: McIntyre Reveals 3 Stages Of Hell Details
- The January 2, 2026, edition of WWE SmackDown delivered a notable kickoff to the new year, headlined by Drew McIntyre's announcement of a brutal new match stipulation: Three...
- Adding to the excitement, the show featured the highly anticipated returns of both Randy Orton and Jordynne Grace.
- Three Stages of Hell is a match stipulation designed to push competitors to their absolute limits.
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WWE SmackDown 2026: McIntyre Announces Three Stages of Hell, orton & Grace Return
Table of Contents
Published January 2, 2026
What Happened on SmackDown?
The January 2, 2026, edition of WWE SmackDown delivered a notable kickoff to the new year, headlined by Drew McIntyre’s announcement of a brutal new match stipulation: Three Stages of Hell. This instantly sets the stage for a high-stakes rivalry, promising a physically demanding and emotionally charged contest.
Adding to the excitement, the show featured the highly anticipated returns of both Randy Orton and Jordynne Grace. Orton’s return marks his first appearance as sustaining an injury in late 2025, while Grace, a dominant force in the professional wrestling world, brings a new level of competition to the women’s division.
Understanding Three Stages of Hell
Three Stages of Hell is a match stipulation designed to push competitors to their absolute limits. While the specific stages weren’t detailed during the initial announcement, the name itself suggests a progression of increasingly challenging and hazardous environments. Historically, similar stipulations have included Steel Cage matches, Hell in a Cell structures, and falls count anywhere scenarios.
Expect a match that begins with standard rules, escalating to a more confined and brutal setting, and culminating in a chaotic, no-holds-barred finale. This stipulation is favored by WWE for its dramatic potential and ability to tell a compelling story of escalating animosity.
The Return of Randy Orton
Randy Orton’s return is a major boost to the SmackDown roster. His absence due to injury left a noticeable void, and his experience and star power are invaluable. Orton’s history of championship wins and captivating feuds makes him an immediate threat to any competitor.
The timing of his return suggests a potential storyline building towards WrestleMania 42.His initial target remains unclear, but speculation points towards a confrontation with a rising star or a long-standing rival.
Jordynne grace Joins the SmackDown Roster
Jordynne Grace’s arrival on SmackDown represents a significant investment in the women’s division. Known for her unbelievable strength and technical prowess, grace has consistently delivered compelling performances across multiple promotions. Her signing signals WWE’s commitment to elevating the level of competition and providing more opportunities for female wrestlers.
Grace’s unique skillset and aggressive style will undoubtedly shake up the existing hierarchy. Expect her to quickly establish herself as a dominant force, possibly challenging for the SmackDown Women’s Championship.
Potential Matchups & Storylines
The introduction of Three Stages of Hell immediately sparks speculation about potential rivalries. Given McIntyre’s recent feud with Roman Reigns, a Three Stages of Hell match between the two seems a logical, albeit brutal, progression. Other potential candidates include Gunther, who has established himself as a dominant Intercontinental Champion.
Orton’s return could lead to a clash with current top stars like Bron Breakker or a rekindled rivalry with Edge. Grace’s arrival opens up possibilities for matches against current champion Rhea Ripley or other established names like Becky Lynch and Bayley.