Drew McIntyre Honors Departing Sheamus on X with Emotional Tribute
Drew McIntyre took to X on July 7 2026 to publicly honor Sheamus, posting two photos that span their early partnership and later battles, marking the Irishman's imminent departure from WWE.
The surprise came after WWE announced that Sheamus would leave the company when his contract expired, reportedly declining an extension. Within days, McIntyre, a longtime friend and former foe, shared the images with a clover emoji beside a hamburger-an inside joke referencing a past promo where McIntyre teased Sheamus for overindulging on burgers while nursing an injury.
McIntyre and Sheamus first teamed up briefly from 2022 to 2023, but their legacy is defined by a fierce rivalry that stretched across both of McIntyre’s WWE stints. Highlights include McIntyre’s victory in the 2022 Good Ol' Fashioned Donnybrook on SmackDown and their three‑way bout at WrestleMania 39, where GUNTHER retained the Intercontinental Championship. That WrestleMania match is still cited as one of the event’s all‑time greats.
Beyond the personal nod, the post signals McIntyre’s readiness to refocus on his acting projects before returning to WWE programming. By publicly acknowledging Sheamus, McIntyre reinforces his standing as a senior talent who respects the company’s history and its departing stars. Fans see the gesture as a bridge between past feuds and future storylines that may involve McIntyre’s comeback.
Industry chatter suggests Sheamus could land a role in AEW, with at least one insider confirming a pitch is in motion. Mexican promotion CMLL has also expressed interest, hinting at a possible international chapter for the former WWE Champion. Regardless of the destination, his exit opens doors for fresh match‑ups and potential cross‑promotion intrigue.
Social feeds lit up with reactions ranging from nostalgic recollections of classic McIntyre‑Sheamus bouts to speculation about where the Irish powerhouse will appear next. Many praised McIntyre’s respectful tone, noting that the tribute balanced humor with genuine admiration, a rare blend in today’s fast‑paced social media landscape.
Sheamus’ departure leaves a void in the heavyweight division, prompting WWE to consider elevating emerging talent or re‑booking existing stars. McIntyre’s upcoming return could fill part of that gap, especially if his acting schedule aligns with a fresh on‑screen push. The company may also lean on the nostalgia of past rivalries to spark new story arcs.
McIntyre’s July 7 tribute does more than salute a departing colleague; it underscores the intertwined careers that shape WWE’s narrative fabric. As Sheamus eyes new horizons and McIntyre prepares his next on‑screen chapter, fans can expect the ripple effects of this farewell to echo through upcoming shows.