Who is Drew McIntyre? Drew McIntyre, born Andrew William Patrick Galloway on June 7, 1985, in Ayr, Scotland, is a professional wrestler known for his impressive size, charisma, and tenacious spirit. His journey in the wrestling world has been nothing short of remarkable, filled with both triumphs and setbacks. From his early days in a small Scottish town to becoming the first British and only Scottish world champion in WWE history, McIntyre's story is one of resilience and determination. Beyond the ring, he has ventured into acting, published a memoir, and actively supports the Special Olympics. Let's dive into 50 intriguing facts about this wrestling icon.
Key Takeaways:
- Drew McIntyre's journey from a small town in Scotland to WWE stardom showcases his passion and resilience, making him the first Scottish world champion in WWE history.
- Beyond wrestling, Drew McIntyre is deeply involved in philanthropy, working with Special Olympics and inspiring others through his memoir, "A Chosen Destiny: My Story."
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Drew McIntyre's journey to WWE stardom began in a small town in Scotland. His early life and initial steps into wrestling are filled with passion and determination.
- Drew McIntyre fell in love with wrestling at the age of five or six, growing up in Ayr, Scotland.
- Despite his impressive size, McIntyre emphasizes that his passion for wrestling was driven by the mental aspect and behind-the-scenes action.
- Drew signed with WWE in late 2007, making his official debut on October 12, 2007, on the SmackDown brand as Drew McIntyre.
- Initially known as Drew Galloway, he changed his ring name to Drew McIntyre to fit WWE's branding and distance himself from his early UK days.
- McIntyre's early feuds included matches against Brett Major and Brian Major, often with the help of his on-screen mentor Dave Taylor.
- In early 2008, McIntyre moved to the Raw brand, debuting on January 6, 2008, on the Heat show, defeating Charlie Haas.
- He also wrestled in Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) and Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), forming a tag team with Wade Barrett known as the "Brit Pack".
Rise to Prominence
Drew McIntyre's career saw significant highs and lows, but his resilience and talent always shone through.
- In 2009, McIntyre returned to SmackDown and was promoted by Vince McMahon as "The Chosen One," a future World Champion.
- McIntyre won the WWE Intercontinental Championship in 2009, participating in notable matches like Hell in a Cell and Survivor Series.
- He also won the WWE Tag Team Championship alongside Cody Rhodes, showcasing his versatility in the ring.
- Despite early success, McIntyre faced creative frustrations, leading to his release from WWE in 2014.
- McIntyre returned to WWE in 2017, signing with NXT and re-establishing himself as a formidable wrestler.
- He won the NXT Championship and eventually moved back to the main roster.
- Upon returning to the main roster, McIntyre won the Raw Tag Team Championship alongside Dolph Ziggler in 2018.
Championship Victories
Drew McIntyre's championship wins are a testament to his skill and determination.
- In 2020, McIntyre won the Men's Royal Rumble match, a significant achievement that catapulted him to new heights in WWE.
- He also won the Men's Money in the Bank ladder match in 2024, showcasing his ability to adapt and overcome challenges.
- McIntyre has held two WWE Championships, the first coming at WrestleMania 36 Night 2, where he defeated Brock Lesnar.
- He also won the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania XL Night 2.
- With his numerous title wins, McIntyre became the 31st Triple Crown Champion in WWE history, making him the first British and only Scottish world champion in WWE history.
Acting and Media Appearances
Beyond wrestling, Drew McIntyre has ventured into acting and made several media appearances.
- McIntyre made his film debut in "The Killer's Game," playing the role of Scottish brute Rory Mackenzie.
- He credits Dave Bautista for helping him get acclimated to the WWE environment early in his run.
- Despite Bautista leaving WWE, their paths crossed again in "The Killer's Game".
- McIntyre has appeared on various media platforms, including NBC's The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Discovery’s Shark Rumble, YouTube’s Fine Brothers Entertainment, Good Day New York, Men’s Health, Sports Illustrated, and Men's Fitness UK.
Character Development and Storylines
Drew McIntyre's character evolution and storylines have kept fans engaged and entertained.
- McIntyre has undergone a significant character shift, moving from being a company guy to embracing his role as a bad guy.
- His storyline with The Bloodline has been particularly notable, showcasing his ability to develop deep-layered stories and characters.
- McIntyre's ability to connect with fans is unparalleled, with a deep understanding of what makes wrestling compelling.
- His storytelling ability in the ring is exceptional, conveying complex emotions and narratives.
- McIntyre's character development is meticulous, adding depth to his performances.
- He believes in being true to himself and his character, finding authenticity in playing the role of a bad guy.
- McIntyre has a strong working relationship with the creative team, understanding the importance of collaboration.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
Drew McIntyre is not just a wrestler; he is also deeply involved in philanthropic activities.
- McIntyre is an ambassador for the Special Olympics movement, working side-by-side with Special Olympics athletes on various campaigns.
- In 2021, McIntyre challenged fellow celebrities and their social media followers to include people with intellectual disabilities through Special Olympics’ social media marketing campaign called Challenge Expectations.
- McIntyre is part of a prestigious group of global ambassadors for Special Olympics, which includes notable figures like Michael Phelps, Nadia Comaneci, and Nicole Scherzinger.
- His School of Strength campaign is an online workout program designed to promote fitness and strength among Special Olympics athletes.
- The Challenge Expectations campaign, which McIntyre spearheaded, was a global success, encouraging celebrities and influencers to include people with intellectual disabilities in their social media posts.
Personal Life and Legacy
Drew McIntyre's personal life and legacy are as inspiring as his professional career.
- In 2021, Drew McIntyre published a memoir titled "A Chosen Destiny: My Story," detailing his life from a small village to WWE.
- There is a fascinating legend that Drew McIntyre was the first person to record seeing the Loch Ness monster in 565 A.D., though this is more myth than fact.
- After his release in 2014, McIntyre returned to WWE in 2017, marking a significant comeback.
- With his return came a new look and a new addition to his Scottish Warrior gimmick: a sword named Angela, which holds personal significance as it is named after his mother.
- The sword is 1,500 years old and was named by Vince McMahon. McIntyre feels that every time he makes his way to the ring, his mother accompanies him.
- Many WWE fans have asked if the sword is real or a prop. The answer is that it is real, adding to the authenticity of McIntyre's character.
- McIntyre's victory over Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 36 Night 2 was a significant moment in his career, marking him as a true champion.
- He also won the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania XL Night 2, solidifying his status as one of the top wrestlers in the world.
- McIntyre's rare combination of size, athletic ability, and charisma makes him a formidable opponent in the ring.
- The Claymore Kick is not just a move; it's a symbol of McIntyre's strength and determination.
- McIntyre engages with fans through various social media platforms, sharing his experiences and promoting upcoming events.
- In addition to his wrestling career, McIntyre is involved in various philanthropic activities, aiming to improve the health and fitness of athletes with intellectual disabilities.
- McIntyre's School of Strength campaign has been a significant success, engaging thousands of participants worldwide.
- His memoir, "A Chosen Destiny: My Story," received positive reviews for its candid and inspiring portrayal of his life journey.
- Drew McIntyre's legacy in WWE is one of resilience and determination, leaving an indelible mark on the wrestling world.
Drew McIntyre: A True Wrestling Warrior
Drew McIntyre's journey from a small town in Scotland to WWE stardom is nothing short of inspiring. His early passion for wrestling, combined with his physical prowess and mental toughness, has made him a standout figure in the wrestling world. From winning the Men's Royal Rumble to becoming the first British and only Scottish world champion, McIntyre's achievements are impressive. Beyond the ring, his work with the Special Olympics and his acting debut in "The Killer's Game" showcase his versatility and commitment to making a difference. McIntyre's story is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the power of following one's dreams. Whether he's delivering a Claymore Kick or inspiring fans with his memoir, Drew McIntyre continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling and beyond.
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