Drew McIntyre

Drew McIntyre

McIntyre in October 2015
Birth name	Andrew McLean Galloway IV[1]
Born	(1985-06-06) 6 June 1985 Ayr, Scotland[2]
Residence	Tampa, Florida, United States
Spouse(s)	Taryn Terrell (m. 2010; div. 2011) Kaitlyn Frohnapfel (m. 2016)
Professional wrestling career
Ring name(s)	Drew Galloway[2] Drew McIntyre[3]
Billed height	6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)[4]
Billed weight	254 lb (115 kg)[4]
Billed from	Ayr, Scotland[3][4]
Trained by	James Tighe[5] Justin Richards Mark Sloan[5] Spinner McKenzie[5]
Debut	2001[6]

Andrew McLean Galloway IV (born 6 June 1985)^[1] is a Scottish professional wrestler currently signed to WWE, where he performs in their NXT brand under the ring name Drew McIntyre. He is a former one-time WWE Intercontinental and Tag Team Champion. Outside of WWE, he has performed under his real name Drew Galloway, notably with Global Force Wrestling (formerly Total Nonstop Action Wrestling) - where he is a former one-time TNA World Heavyweight Champion and one-time Impact Grand Champion.

Galloway has also wrestled extensively on the independent scene. He is a former one-time and longest-reigning WCPW World Champion^[7] with What Culture Pro Wrestling, a two-time ICW World Heavyweight Champion^[8] with Insane Championship Wrestling and a former Evolve Champion and Tag Team Champion with Evolve.

Professional wrestling career

Galloway began training for professional wrestling at the age of 15^[2] at the Frontier Wrestling Alliance's Academy when his family moved to the south of England to Portsmouth.^[9] In the FWA Academy, while he was trained by the promotion's operator Mark Sloan along with Justin Richards and James Tighe, Galloway also cites the promotion's established wrestlers helping out with training, including Doug Williams, Paul Burchill and Alex Shane.^[5]

British Championship Wrestling (2003–2007)

In 2003, Galloway made his debut for the inaugural show of British Championship Wrestling (BCW), operating in the Greater Glasgow area. While there he honed his wrestling skill further, training under Colin McKay and later Spinner McKenzie^[5] and developing the character of "Thee" Drew Galloway, a cocky narcissist.^[10] His first match, which took place at February's No Blood, No Sympathy: Night 1, saw him lose against Stu Natt.^[11] He picked up his first win on the second night in a tag team match alongside Wolfgang, defeating Blade and Stu Pendous.^[12] By December, Galloway was managed by Charles Boddington, who aided him in his first significant success and would manage him for the next four years. On 5 December, Boddington announced that BCW Heavyweight Champion Spinner McKenzie had been fired and would be stripped of the title; Boddington then instantly gave the belt to Galloway.^[13] Stevie Knight took exception to this and challenged him to a match that very night at Bad Tidings: Night 1, winning the championship.^[14] Galloway earned a non-title win over Knight the following February in 2004, at Night of The Fan^[15] but Knight exacted revenge by knocking Galloway out of the King of BCW tournament.^[16]

Later that year, Galloway had a series of matches against American veterans. In June, he was defeated by The Honky Tonk Man^[17] and later that month lost in a tag team match to Marty Jannetty and Highlander, with Sabotage on his side.^[18] In November at the aptly titled Lo Down, Galloway main evented in a double countout match against D'Lo Brown.^[19] He then had a brief series of feuds, as in March 2005 he defeated Jay Phoenix^[20] but their rematch in November, officiated by Mick Foley, ended in a no contest.^[21] In May 2006 after their lengthy feud in Irish Whip Wrestling, Galloway lost^[22] then won in successive matches against long-term rival Sheamus O'Shaunessy.^[23]

In November 2006, in the main event of Live in East Kilbride, Galloway teamed with Lionheart and pinned BCW Heavyweight Champion Highlander who was tagging with Wolfgang.^[24] This put him in contention for the title at December's No Blood, No Sympathy IV. The match was booked as an "I Quit" match with Conscience as the special guest referee with Galloway gaining his second BCW Heavyweight Championship.^[13][25][26] He held the title through most of 2007, with successful defenses over Martin Stone, Allan Grogan and Lionheart, before vacating it^[13] after he relocated to the United States in September.^[2]

Irish Whip Wrestling (2005–2006)

After gaining momentum in Scotland, Galloway began wrestling dates across the Republic of Ireland with Irish Whip Wrestling (IwW) continuing to use "Thee" Drew Galloway as his gimmick. With Charles Boddington still in his corner, he competed in three contests during his first appearance on 23 July 2005 for Whiplash TV.^[10] After losing to "SOS" Sheamus O'Shaunessy^[27] he found a similar fate against Mad Man Manson, sparking a feud between the two.^[10] Despite these two losses, his status abroad meant he was already booked in a Ten-Man Gauntlet match to determine the top contender for the main title. Galloway was whitewashed the entire evening, losing to Vic Viper.^[27] The following day at Gym Wars Manson was absent so Galloway tried to avenge his loss with O'Shaunessy but it ended in a double count-out.^[28] Over the next few months Galloway recruited various wrestlers, even his manager Boddington, in a series of tag team and even handicap tag team matches against Manson and his teams.^[29][30][31] He picked up his first victory in October against Sean South in a warm-up for that event's main event six-man tag team match.^[30] The rivalry between Galloway and Manson was finally settled in November at IwW's final show from the SFX Theatre. Their brutal and bloody Street Fight saw Galloway gain respect from for his tenacity and endurance^[10] but his losing streak continued.^[32]

With his rivalry against Manson settled in their Street Fight and despite having only won one match with the company, Galloway was given a shot at the IwW International Heavyweight Championship owing to his show stealing performances with Manson.^[10] On 28 January 2006 he received his first title match against Sheamus O'Shaunessy, evolving their rivalry from previous battles.^[33] The rivalry quickly took on a patriotic flavour, with Galloway's blue colours of Scotland clashing O'Shaunessy's green colours of Ireland, mirroring the Old Firm football derby between Glasgow Rangers and Glasgow Celtic, respectively.^[10] This football allusion became particularly prominent when the two met again at Verona Football Club once again for the title, though the match changed into a Lumberjack match, the result and champion remained the same.^[34] Galloway remained focussed, proving his dominance and determination for the championship by defeating JC Williams and Brian Roche in a handicap match on 17 March.^[35] This match earned him a two out of three falls match against the champion the following day in which O'Shaunessy won two falls to one;^[36] the next day produced the same result.^[37] Again Galloway proved himself a fierce competitor, twice making Vic Viper acquiesce in "I Quit" matches in April.^[38][39] With their rivalry intensifying, Galloway's next challenge to O'Shaunessy was given the stipulation of a Last Man Standing match. Once again, the Irish native retained the title,^[40] as he also did in June with the same stipulation.^[41]

Finally, on 28 August 2006 Galloway managed to beat the reigning Irishman and won the IwW International Heavyweight Championship in a singles match.^[42][43] He successfully defended the belt that evening against Go Shiozaki.^[10][41] In November, Galloway took the championship to London, England to defend it at Real Quality Wrestling's Rebirth in November against Jody Fleisch,^[44] though the match was broadcast on 20 December episode of RQW TV.^[45] However, Galloway was not able to commit to fully defending the title, due to other bookings in his homeland and his academic studies, he was thus forced to relinquish the championship in January 2007.^[10][46]

Touring Great Britain (2005–2007)

While BCW became his home promotion and he made regular appearances for IwW, Galloway made several appearances around the independent circuit. In 2004, he appeared for the fledgling International Pro Wrestling: United Kingdom (IPW:UK) at their aptly titled Show 2.^[47] Despite losing to Aviv Maayan in his first showing,^[48] by the time he returned in May 2005 his reputation made him notorious enough to compete in their main event Five Way Elimination match to determine the best of British heavyweights. Galloway was eliminated first by Andy Boy Simmonz with a small package pin.^[49]

In between studying, Gallow competed in several tours of All Star Wrestling^[2] against competitors including TJ Wilson, PN Neuz, Chad Collyer and Brody Steele during 2006.^[50] On 15 October 2006, Galloway competed in Insane Championship Wrestling's (ICW) debut show Fear & Loathing, defeating Darkside and Allan Grogan in a three-way 30-minute Iron Man match to become the first ICW Heavyweight Champion. He held the title for 280 days, ultimately losing it to Darkside on 22 July 2007 in a five-man elimination match that also involved Jack Jester, Wolfgang and Liam Thomson.

Despite it being his only match (he was used twice) for NWA: Scottish Wrestling Alliance (NWA:SWA), Galloway represented Team SWA against Team Sinner in the titular match for the March 2006 Clan Wars event, being eliminated first by Highlander who was using the ropes.^[51] At the end of the month he appeared at the inaugural event for Premier British Wrestling (PBW) earning a shot to become the first PBW Heavyweight Champion by defeating Allan Grogan but losing to Wolfgang in the main event. In October he was entered into a contendership match to win another chance at the title, but was beaten by Dave Moralez.^[52]

Galloway's reputation continued to precede him, being placed in contention for RQW's Not Just For Christmas tournament to crown the inaugural RQW Heavyweight Champion. Representing IwW, having made his IwW Title defence against Fleisch earlier in the year, Galloway faced SAS Wrestling's El Ligero^[53] going through to the semi-final only to lose to One Pro Wrestling's Pac by count out. Galloway continued to appear in April, taking his rivalry with 'SOS' Sheamus O'Shaunessy to London with a double count-out^[54] which led to a rematch in June where Galloway picked up the victory in a Street Fight. Later on that evening, having made a statement with his win over O'Shaunessy, Galloway attacked the RQW Heavyweight Champion Martin Stone during his title defence against Takeshi Rikio.^[55] This attack led to Galloway's final match in the UK at August's Summer Brawl. Despite attacking Stone earlier in the evening, Galloway could not pick up the victory and failed to win the title.^[56] Galloway's very last appearance was serving as a referee for PBW on 15 September in a match that saw Darkside defeat Lionheart to become the championship contender.^[57]

Insane Championship Wrestling (2006–2007)

Galloway appeared on the inaugural Insane Championship Wrestling show promoted by a young Mark Dallas.^[58] Galloway won a triple threat match over Darkside and Allan Grogan to become the first ever ICW Heavyweight Champion.^[59][60] Galloway held the title for 280 days, retaining over Wolfgang^[61] and Allan Grogan,^[62] before losing the title to Darkside in a five-man match which also included Jack Jester, Wolfgang and Liam Thomson.^[63][64] This was his final appearance for the company until 2014.^[65][66]

World Wrestling Entertainment/WWE

Early appearances and Ohio Valley Wrestling (2006–2007)

In late 2006, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) went on tour in Europe and before their filming of SmackDown! in Manchester, Galloway had a try out match against O'Shaunessy. The following year in April, the two received another try out match in London.^[67] Later on 12 October 2007, Galloway made his televised WWE debut during SmackDown! using the name Drew McIntyre. He appeared as a fan friendly character, imploring the crowd to cheer for him due to seeking dual citizenship with America while accompanied by fellow Briton Dave Taylor. He defeated Brett Major^[68] and on the following episode of SmackDown!, McIntyre defeated Brett's tag team partner Brian Major with the help of Taylor.^[69] McIntyre was moved to the Raw brand in the new year, but after a win against Charlie Haas on 4 January he disappeared from television.^[70]

After moving to Kentucky, Galloway made his debut in Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) on 26 September with a win over fellow FWA Academy alumnus Paul Burchill. He soon changed his name to Drew McIntyre and teamed with Burchill to take on The Major Brothers (Brian and Brett) in a losing effort. In October, McIntyre found a new partner in Stu Sanders forming a tag team called The Brit Pack. Still they failed to defeat The Major Brothers, both in a tag team match and a Four Corners tag team match elimination match. The Brit Pack picked up their first victory on 31 October TV tapings over Dirty Money and Scott Cardinal. The win propelled McIntyre to gain an OVW Television Championship match against Colt Cabana.^[71] In 2008, Mcintyre gained momentum with a winning streak that built towards a non-title match against OVW Heavyweight Champion Evan Bourne which McIntyre won by disqualification. His final match in OVW was on 29 February with a win over Scott Cardinal.^[72]

Florida Championship Wrestling (2007–2009)

After moving to Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), Galloway reformed his team with Stu Sanders, now going under the name of The Empire. In April, they took on The Puerto Rican Nightmares (Eric Pérez and Eddie Colón) who won the match and a title shot at the FCW Florida Tag Team Championship.^[73] Once The Nightmares won the championship, The Empire received two consecutive chances to win the FCW Florida Tag Team Championship on 6 May.^[74] Their first title defence was against McIntyre's old rival Sheamus O'Shaunessy, but his partner "Sterling Jack" Gabriel accidentally hit them and The Empire capitalised to retain their championship.^[73] The Empire lost the championship on 17 July to Joe Hennig and Gabe Tuft.^[74] On 16 August, The Empire imploded when McIntyre faced Sanders in a singles match which ended in a double countout and their rematch at the end of September ended in a time limit draw.

On 7 October, McIntyre was entered into a contest for the FCW Florida Heavyweight Championship and defeated Tuft to make it into the final but lost to Eric Escobar (the former Eric Peréz). McIntyre closed out the year with an unsuccessful attempt to gain the FCW Florida Heavyweight Championship in a four-way match, but Escobar won the title from O'Shaunessy.^[75]

Going into 2009, McIntyre entered into a rivalry with Joe Hennig, but their first match in February ended in a double countout. McIntyre interfered in Hennig's match the following week, costing him the match. On 26 February, Hennig defeated McIntyre^[76] and went on that night to win the FCW Florida Heavyweight Championship from Escobar. Their feud ended abruptly when Hennig vacated the title after an injury, causing McIntyre to be elevated into title contendership, beating Escobar for the vacant championship on 19 March. McIntyre regularly defended the title until 11 June, when Tyler Reks (the former Gabe Tuft) won the title in his second attempt.^[75] Later that month, McIntyre failed to win a 14-man battle royal for a chance to regain the title. On 25 June, McIntyre was set to team with O'Shaunessy against the returning Hennig and DJ Gabriel (the aforementioned "Sterling Jack" Gabriel), but when neither team would work together a four-way was booked, which O'Shaunessy won. McIntyre and O'Shaunessy both failed to win back the FCW Florida Heavyweight Championship in mid-July from Reks. McIntyre received a singles opportunity the next day with the same result.^[76]

The Chosen One (2009–2011)

On 28 August 2009, McIntyre re-debuted on the SmackDown brand, disregarding his previous time on WWE television, and established himself as a villain by attacking R-Truth as he entered the ring, using his new double underhook DDT finishing move, the Scot Drop (soon renamed the Future Shock).^[77] McIntyre continued to attack Truth over the following weeks, claiming to be on the show to wrestle not to party like R-Truth.^[78] On 18 September, while Charlie Haas was waiting to face R-Truth, McIntyre came to the ring to explain that R-Truth had been injured backstage, and then attacked Haas.^[79] On 25 September, WWE Chairman Mr. McMahon introduced McIntyre as a "future world champion" that he had personally signed, after which Truth made a return attack against McIntyre.^[80] The following week on SmackDown, McIntyre continued to crash parties by making a speech at the Decade of SmackDown celebration until R-Truth put him through a table and the anniversary cake.^[81] This all led to McIntyre's first proper match since his return at the Hell in a Cell pay-per-view (PPV), where McIntyre defeated R-Truth in under five minutes again using his DDT finisher.^[82][83]

McIntyre faced R-Truth once more in a singles match and won by countout to represent SmackDown at Bragging Rights,^[84] but the episode before the PPV the entire team, captains aside, was replaced leaving McIntyre omitted from the event.^[85][86] McIntyre briefly feuded with Finlay in the same manner as Truth with matches not starting properly^[87][88] until McIntyre won their final meeting in under two minutes.^[89] At Survivor Series on 24 November, McIntyre had a place on The Miz's team for the traditional Survivor Series elimination match. McIntyre, The Miz and his former rival Sheamus (previously Sheamus O'Shaunessy) were the surviving members on their winning team; McIntyre eliminated Evan Bourne and Matt Hardy.^[90]

Being the only SmackDown superstar to survive against Team Morrison, McIntyre faced and defeated John Morrison a few weeks later,^[91] putting him in line for Morrison's Intercontinental Championship at TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs (TLC). Days before the event, Morrison mocked McIntyre's Scottish heritage by dressing as a Braveheart-inspired William Wallace,^[92] but at TLC on 13 December, McIntyre managed to pin Morrison after a thumb to the eye to win the Intercontinental title, his first championship in WWE.^[93] He retained the title against Morrison and later against Kane using underhanded tactics.^[94][95] His televised undefeated record ended in a Money in the Bank qualifying match against Kane on 26 February episode of SmackDown,^[96] but Mr McMahon forced SmackDown's general manager Teddy Long to expunge the loss. The same thing happened again with Matt Hardy^[97] before McIntyre finally qualified for the Ladder match by pinning an unsigned wrestler.^[98] He then lost to The Undertaker on 19 March^[99] and he also failed to win the Money in the Bank match on 29 March at WrestleMania XXVI, his first WrestleMania appearance.^[100] In weeks after this, McIntyre continuously attacked Matt Hardy until he was stripped of his title on 7 May by Long and suspended for the purposes of the storyline;^[101] McMahon decreed he be reinstated as champion the following week, undermining Long's authority which developed tension between McIntyre and Long.^[102] As a result, McIntyre faced Kofi Kingston – who had won a tournament to determine the new champion – at Over the Limit on 23 May, and lost the championship after 161 days.^[103] McIntyre, however, still used his relationship with McMahon to bully Teddy Long, publicly humiliating and forcing Long to lie down for him for their match.^[104] At Fatal 4-Way on 20 June, McIntyre faced Kingston in a rematch for the Intercontinental Championship. During the match, Long took over as the referee, but he refused to make the three count when McIntyre had the match won. A vengeful Matt Hardy then attacked McIntyre, leading to Kingston winning the match and retaining the championship.^[105]

On 21 June episode of Raw, The Nexus faction attacked McMahon which removed him from television for a prolonged period and ended McIntyre's preferential treatment.^[106] After losing to Matt Hardy on 25 June episode of SmackDown, Long informed McIntyre that his work visa had expired and that he would be deported back to Scotland immediately.^[107] This storyline had a basis in reality, since Galloway's visa had indeed expired and as a result he was taken off television.^[108] He returned two weeks later and was re-instated after being made to beg Long and qualified for the eponymous match at the Money in the Bank PPV by defeating Kofi Kingston.^[109] McIntyre then continued his rivalry with Matt Hardy and Hardy's friend Christian. At the same time, "Dashing" Cody Rhodes also took umbrage with Matt Hardy and Christian, leading to an alliance being formed. On 19 September at Night of Champions, McIntyre and Rhodes captured the WWE Tag Team Championship in a five-team tag team turmoil match as the last entrants. This allowed them to appear on both brands.^[110] McIntyre and Rhodes then successfully defended their championship twice against The Hart Dynasty.^[111][112] At the Bragging Rights PPV on 24 October, McIntyre and Rhodes lost the championship to The Nexus (John Cena and David Otunga) and dissolved their team.^[113] On 21 November at Survivor Series, McIntyre participated in a 5-on-5 traditional Survivor Series tag team match as a member of Team Del Rio against Team Mysterio. McIntyre would be the final man remaining on his team before he was eliminated by Big Show. McIntyre would participate in the 40 man Royal Rumble match on 30 January, but would be eliminated by Big Show.

Various storylines and brand switches (2011–2012)

In early 2011, McIntyre was part of a brief storyline with Kelly Kelly. Though Kelly was a popular character, McIntyre tried to woo her despite his villainous behavior. She refused to date him, due to his anger problems which were shown during his matches against Trent Barretta. In February, He participated in the SmackDown Elimination Chamber match for the World Heavyweight Championship but was eliminated by Kane. After being continually spurned by Kelly, McIntyre teamed with Vickie Guerrero in a losing effort against Kelly and Edge on 22 February episode of SmackDown.

On 26 April, Drew McIntyre was drafted to the Raw brand as part of the 2011 supplemental draft and made his debut for the brand in a losing effort to Kofi Kingston.^[114] McIntyre featured very rarely on Raw and was confined to dark matches and Superstars.

On 15 December episode of Superstars, McIntyre finally won a match by defeating Justin Gabriel which earned him a contract with SmackDown.^[115] He switched to the SmackDown brand on 30 December and resumed his tense relationship with General Manager Theodore Long. Long put pressure on McIntyre to win matches to justify his contract and McIntyre subsequently began an eight match losing streak going into the new year,^[116] after the last of which, Long fired McIntyre within the storyline.^[117] A week later, McIntyre was reinstated by guest general manager John Laurinaitis, where he finally ended his losing streak by defeating Hornswoggle.^[118] He was subsequently included on Laurinaitis' team in the 12-man Tag Team match at WrestleMania XXVIII, helping to earn Laurinaitis control of both the Raw and SmackDown brands. During the match, Drew McIntyre injured his shoulder. He returned on the 10 May episode of Superstars defeating Ezekiel Jackson. Since returning his fortunes had relatively stayed the same. He continued to lose most matches and was confined to Superstars and house shows. However, he was able to make several appearances on Raw and SmackDown, but most of them were squash matches against the likes of Brodus Clay.

When WWE rebranded its developmental territory, FCW, into WWE NXT,^[119] McIntyre was inserted into the Gold Rush Tournament to crown the inaugural NXT Champion, where he lost to Seth Rollins in the quarter-finals on 1 August episode of NXT.^[120] McIntyre also participated in a number one contender fatal four-way elimination match on 7 November episode of NXT, but was eliminated by Bo Dallas.^[121]

3MB (2012–2014)

On 21 September episode of SmackDown, McIntyre and Jinder Mahal interfered in a match between Heath Slater and Brodus Clay by attacking Clay, aligning themselves with Slater.^[122] The trio became known as the Three Man Band, later shortened to 3MB.^[123] Due to a wrist injury, McIntyre managed Slater and Mahal in tag matches.^[124][125] McIntyre returned to the ring from injury on 7 December episode of SmackDown when 3MB defeated the team of The Usos and Brodus Clay.^[126] At TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs, after being guests on Miz TV and harassing the Spanish announce team, 3MB challenged The Miz and Alberto Del Rio to find a partner for a six-man tag team match for later that night. Miz would announce their partner to be the Brooklyn Brawler, and would go on to defeat 3MB.^[127] The next night on Raw, 3MB were defeated by The Miz and Del Rio again, this time with Tommy Dreamer as their partner.^[128] On 31 December episode of Raw, McIntyre and Slater challenged Team Hell No (Daniel Bryan and Kane) for the WWE Tag Team Championship in a losing effort.^[129] McIntyre and Slater also competed in the first round of the NXT Tag Team Championship tournament to crown the inaugural champions, but were defeated by Adrian Neville and Oliver Grey on 23 January episode of NXT.^[130]

On 12 April episode of SmackDown, in an attempt to make a name for themselves, 3MB tried to attack Triple H, but were attacked themselves by The Shield (Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns). On 15 April episode of Raw, 3MB called out The Shield, only for Brock Lesnar to come out instead and attack the group.^[131] On 29 April episode of Raw, 3MB attacked The Shield, but The Shield would quickly turn the tables on them. This resulted in Team Hell No chasing away The Shield, before attacking 3MB themselves.^[132] Beginning in late 2013, 3MB began adopting new ring names against their opponents, although their misfortunes and amounting losses remained the same. At WrestleMania XXX, McIntyre competed in the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal but was eliminated by Mark Henry. 3MB then formed an alliance with Hornswoggle to feud with Los Matadores and El Torito. On 12 June 2014, WWE announced that McIntyre was released from his WWE contract.^[133]

Return to ICW (2014–2017)

Having reverted to using his real name, Galloway made his first post-WWE appearance on 27 July 2014, returning to work for Mark Dallas at Insane Championship Wrestling (ICW) for the first time in seven years and beginning a feud with Jack Jester.^[134] On 2 November at ICW's "Fear & Loathing VII" event at The Barrowlands, Galloway defeated Jester in the main event to become a two-time ICW Heavyweight Champion.^[135] Galloway made his first defense in Glasgow on 7 December, defeating Kid Fite in the main event of ICW's "Brush Your Goose".^[136] Galloway made his first international ICW title defense in Denmark on 20 December in a double championship triple threat match against Danish Pro Wrestling Champion Michael Fynne and Chaos, where he both retained the ICW title and gained the DPW Heavyweight Championship.^[137] Galloway competed in his final match of 2014 in a surprise appearance at ICW's "Space Baws 5: Bill Murray Strikes Back" by answering the challenge of Lewis Girvan, who had been goading Galloway for a match– Galloway defeated Girvan to retain the ICW Heavyweight Championship. Following the match, he announced his intention to make the title a world championship by continuing to defend it internationally.^[138]

On 25 January 2015 at the "Square Go" event, Galloway defeated rival Chris Renfrew to retain the belt. On 9 February, Galloway successfully defended his title against Matt Hardy in a match for the Family Wrestling Entertainment promotion in New York, subsequently renaming it the ICW World Heavyweight Championship.^[139] Galloway defended the championship in Australia for the first time on 20 March, defeating Andy Phoenix at Outback Championship Wrestling TV taping.^[140] Galloway made his first defense in Scotland as "World Champion" by defeating Joe Coffey in the main-event of BarraMania on 28 March. On 5 April, Galloway made his first defense of the ICW title in England defeating Doug Williams at a Revolution Pro Wrestling (RPW) show^[141] and on 6 April, Galloway made his first ICW title defense in Ireland at a Pro Wrestling Ulster show defeating Joe Hendry, TRON and Luther Valentine in a Four Way.^[142] On 11 April, Galloway defeated Grado to retain the World Championship, after the match both men were attacked by returning former champion Jack Jester.^[143] The following night Galloway suffered his first loss in ICW since his return, teaming with Grado in a Tag Team match against Jester and Sabu, where Grado was pinned.^[144] On 18 April, Galloway defeated both Jester and Grado in an impromptu triple threat match to retain his championship again, before having the championship stolen post-match by Sabu.^[145] The following night at "Alex Kidd In London" at KOKO, Galloway would regain possession of the belt and retain his championship in an Elimination Three Way Dance against Sabu and Jester.^[146] Galloway made his 13th successful World title defense by defeating Tommy End on tour with ICW in Sheffield on 26 April 2015. Galloway finished the "Insane Entertainment Tour" by defeating Mikey Whiplash in the Main-Event of "Flawless Victory" on 2 May, to once again retain the ICW World Heavyweight Championship.

On 18 July, Galloway returned to New York to make his 15th successful title defence of the ICW World Heavyweight Championship, retaining the title in a Four-Way match against Joey Ace, Logan Black and Matt Macintosh at a Warriors of Wrestling show.^[147]

On 16 October at a Max Wrestling show in Germany, Galloway defended the ICW World Championship in a triple threat against Apu Singh and Chaos, in which Chaos' UEWA European Heavyweight Championship was also on the line.^[148]

At Shug's Hoose Party 2, Galloway turned heel along with Jack Jester and ICW GM Red Lightning as they aligned to form 'The Black Label'. With Jester's help he successfully defended the championship against Big Damo in the main event. Galloway would go on to successfully retain his World Championship against Rhino, Joey D and Kris Travis throughout the rest of the summer.

As part of the "Road to Fear & Loathing" tour, Galloway made successful title defenses of the ICW title against Rampage Brown, Doug Williams, Matt Daly and Coach Trip, as well as non-title victories over Rockstar Spud, Marty Scurll, Damo and Kenny Williams. During the tour, Galloway also teamed with Black Label stablemate Jack Jester to challenge Polo Promotions for the ICW Tag Team Championships but were defeated following interference from Grado.^[149] On 15 November, Galloway lost the title against Grado at Fear & Loathing VIII.

Galloway returned to ICW in February 2016 for the UK & Ireland tour, scoring wins over Mark Coffey, Noam Dar and BT Gunn, but suffering a loss in a match against Chris Renfrew for the ICW World Heavyweight Championship.^[150] Remaining in title contention, Galloway would lose two further ICW Championship matches against new world champion Big Damo in March and April.^[150]

On 29 May 2016, Galloway returned to winning ways in the main-event of the Fight Network premiere episode of "ICW Friday Night Fight Club", teaming with Jester to defeat The Local Fire (Joe Hendry & Davey Boy).^[151]

Galloway continued teaming with the Black Label in winning and losing efforts as well as scoring a singles victory over Grado in a rematch from Fear & Loathing VIII.^[152] Galloway was then out of action from August until November due to a back injury but would appear on ICW shows in non-wrestling roles further his feud with Mark Dallas. On 19 November, Galloway announced his departure from ICW due to the severity of his injuries, reconciling with Mark Dallas before attacking Dallas and revealing it to have been a rouse.^[153] Galloway then teamed with Jack Jester to defeat Chris Renfrew and Grado in an impromptu tag match.^[154]

Co-Main Eventing Fear & Loathing IX, Galloway and the rest of Team Black Label were defeated by Team Dallas in an Eight Man Elimination Tag Match for 100% ownership of ICW. Galloway was last eliminated by Renfrew following interference from Finn Bálor.^[155]

Evolve (2014–2017)

On 8 August 2014, in his first post-WWE match, Galloway debuted for Evolve, defeating Chris Hero for the Evolve Championship.^[156] The next day, Galloway defeated Anthony Nese to retain the title.^[157] His first loss in Evolve came at Evolve 33, in a Champion vs Champion match against the DGUSA Open the Freedom Gate champion Ricochet. Galloway continued to defend the Evolve championship stateside against the likes of Caleb Konley, Stevie Richards, Devin Thomas, Jimmy Rave and Victor Sterling at Independent events across the US and Rich Swann on Evolve iPPV at Evolve 34, while also defending the championship internationally in Scotland against Kid Fite, Johnny Moss, Big Damo and Andy Wild, as well as in England, where he retained by pinfall over reigning NWA World Tag Team Champion Davey Boy Smith Jr.^[158][159]

Following multiple international title defenses, Galloway renamed his title the "Evolve World Championship" on 9 January 2015.^[160] Galloway made his first successful defense as World Champion the following night at Evolve 37, defeating Ricochet by pinfall.^[161]

The international title defenses continued on 20 March 2015, Galloway defeated Andy Phoenix in a Triple Championship match for Australian promotion Outback Championship Wrestling, retaining both the Evolve and ICW World Championships and winning Phoenix's OCW Heavyweight Championship.^[140]

Between 26 and 28 March 2015, Galloway competed on three of the WWN Wrestlemania week shows, at Evolve 39, Galloway retained the Evolve Championship over PJ Black before a non-title victory over Uhaa Nation the following night at Evolve 40. On the third night, at Mercury Rising 2015, Galloway defeated Johnny Gargano for the Dragon Gate USA Open the Freedom Gate Championship in a Title vs Title match, where he also retained the Evolve Championship to become Double Champion.^[162]

Galloway made a series of defenses of the Evolve and DGUSA titles between 4 and 6 April 2015 in Scotland, England and Northern Ireland, defeating Marty Scurll, Doug Williams and Joe Hendry, Tron and Luther Valentine in a Four Way.^[163]

On 30 May at Evolve 43, Drew Galloway made his first standalone defense of the DGUSA Open the Freedom Gate championship, defeating Biff Busick in the main-event via pinfall.^[164] The following night at Evolve 44, Galloway defeated Roderick Strong to retain the Evolve title and end their feud.

On 10 July, Galloway lost both the Evolve World Championship and the Open the Freedom Gate Championship to Timothy Thatcher, at this point Galloway was the longest reigning Evolve champion in history and had set the record for most successful title defenses.^[165] The following night at Evolve 46, Galloway stated that he had no issue "starting from the bottom" again and went on to defeat Trent Barreta - following the match he was attacked by The Premiere Athlete Brand where he fended off the attack of Caleb Konley and Anthony Nese before uncharacteristically attacking Andrea, threatening SoCal Val and assaulting a referee. Following these actions Galloway showed remorse and retreated to the back. It was then announced that Galloway was suspended from EVOLVE.^[166]

Following his suspension, Galloway returned to Evolve in November 2015 at Evolve 51, where he was victorious over FIP World Heavyweight Champion Caleb Konley. The following night at Evolve 52, he received a rematch against Thatcher for the Evolve Championship but was defeated.^[167][168]

Between 22 and 24 January 2016, Galloway and Johnny Gargano entered a three-day tournament to crown the inaugural Evolve Tag Team Champions. At Evolve 53, they defeated Catch Point (Drew Gulak and TJ Perkins), at Evolve 54 they defeated The Bravado Brothers and in the finals at Evolve 55, Galloway and Gargano defeated Chris Hero and Tommy End to win the tournament and championship.^[169] They lost the title to Drew Gulak and Tracy Williams on 2 April. Following the match Galloway went on a rant claiming he spent his entire title reign as Evolve champion bringing legitimacy to Evolve only for WWE and more specifically NXT to come and squash everything he did while also claiming the companies working relationship with WWE was compromising independent wrestling. Galloway then turned on Gargano, attacking him and Ethan Page.^[170] At EVOLVE 60, Galloway defeated Ethan Page. Over the following months, Galloway began aligning himself with other former WWE stars starting with Ethan Carter III who debuted for the promotion at Evolve 61 attacking Johnny Gargano during his match with Galloway. Continuing the feud, Galloway and EC3 defeated Gargano and TJP in the street fight main-event to Evolve 62 with help from Chris Hero who joined their group and would then claim Cody Rhodes would be joining the group too. The following night at Evolve 63, Galloway defeated Ethan Page in an "Anything Goes" match.

At Evolve 64, a grudge match between Galloway and Drew Gulak was rescheduled as an Evolve Tag Team Championship main-event match between Catch Point and Galloway and the returning Chuck Taylor (now wrestling under the name "Dustin"). Galloway and DUSTIN were successful in capturing the championships, making Galloway the first ever two-time Evolve Tag Team Champion.^[171] The following night in the main-event of Evolve 65, Galloway defeated Johnny Gargano, following two Future Shock DDT's, a Claymore kick and three Tombstone Piledrivers.^[172]

Dustin and Galloway made their first Evolve Tag Team Championship defense at Evolve 67 on 20 August 2016. They teamed with EC3 against Fred Yehi, TJP and Ethan Page (replacement for Tracy Williams) in a No DQ Six Man Tag where a pin fall on EC3 would result in a title change. At this show, Galloway would also build a feud with his former WWE Tag Team partner Cody Rhodes and veteran announcer Joey Styles, after they both refused his invitation to join his "crusade".^[173] On 13 November, while Galloway was out with an injury, Dustin and Galloway's replacement, Chris Hero, lost the Evolve Tag Team Championship.^[174] However, it was later announced that, despite supposed champions Catch Point holding the physical belts, Evolve would continue to recognise both Galloway and Dustin as the Evolve Tag Team Champions.

Independent circuit (2014–2017)

Following his WWE release, Galloway returned to the Independent circuit. He had some notable successes, even outside of ICW, PWG and Evolve. Wrestling in several different countries, winning titles in Australia, Denmark, Scotland and other regions, while challenging for numerous others.^[175] In 30 August 2014, WrestleZone Scotland held their annual "Battle of the Nations" match, which saw Galloway represent Scotland in a winning effort over Andy Wilde, who represented England. The EVOLVE Championship was also contested in this match, with Galloway retaining.^[176] In November, Galloway debuted for Tommy Dreamer's House of Hardcore promotion at "HOH VII", where he was defeated by Austin Aries.^[177]

On 23 January 2015, Galloway competed in a one-night tournament for the International Wrestling Federation (IWF) World Championship. He defeated Tommaso Ciampa to advance to the finals where he faced Brian Cage, Chris Hero and Uhaa Nation in an elimination four way for the vacant title. Galloway would eliminate Hero by pinfall, but failed to win the title, as he was the last man eliminated following a distraction from Stu Stone which allowed Cage to get the win and the championship.^[178] On 24 April, Galloway defeated Doug Williams to win the Scottish Wrestling Alliance's Scottish Heavyweight Championship.^[179] He made his first successful defense the following night, defeating SWA Tag Team Champion Mark Coffey in the main event.^[180] In a rematch in November, Coffey was successful in defeating Galloway for the title.

In May 2015, Galloway debuted for Lucha Libre AAA World Wide (AAA), teaming with the Angelico and El Mesias against Matt Hardy, Mr. Anderson and Johnny Mundo.^[181] He returned to Mexico in November to main-event a series of AAA affiliated shows, working three Six Man Tag matches against Rey Mysterio, Blue Demon and Dr. Wagner Jr., his partners included Matt Cross, Carlito and Brodus.^{[181][182][183]}

On August 2015, Galloway debuted for Preston City Wrestling (PCW). He began a feud with Noam Dar, trading wins and losses, including a surprise appearance at the "Supershow of Honor", a cross-promotional event held by Ring of Honor (ROH) and PCW.^[184] Galloway returned to RPW in October, working two shows. He was defeated in the main-event by Will Ospreay on the first night and but was then victorious over RPW Tag Team Champion James Castle on the second.^[185] Galloway returned to PCW in February 2016, entering the "Road to Glory" tournament, successfully defeating Martin Kirby, Mr. Anderson and Noam Dar, before losing to Rampage Brown in the finals.^{[186][187][188]}

In February 2016, it was announced that Galloway would enter the westside Xtreme wrestling (wXW) "16 Carat Gold Tournament".^[189] Galloway was successful in the first round, defeating Silas Young by pinfall.^[190] On night three of the tournament, Galloway defeated Angelico in the quarter-finals before immediately facing Axel Dieter Jr. in the semi-finals, where Galloway was defeated and eliminated from the tournament. wXw announced that Galloway would be returning in September 2016.^[191]

On 4 June, Galloway became No. 1 Contender for the PCW Heavyweight Championship by winning the "There Can Be Only One" Gauntlet. He defeated Lionheart to qualify and outlasted El Ligero, Dave Mastiff, James Davis, Roy Knight, Zak Knight, Rob Lynch, Alex Boylin, Dave Rayne and Sammy Smooth to win the Gauntlet match.^[192] On 25 June, Galloway main-evented the first HD iPPV in European Wrestling history^[193] when he returned to PCW at their "Tribute to the Troops 3" show, where he received his championship opportunity. He was defeated in a PCW Heavyweight Championship triple threat match with Sha Samuels and Noam Dar, when Dar caused Samuels to submit.^[194]

On 19 August, Galloway debuted for the House of Glory (HOG) promotion in New York, where he faced a surprise opponent of Low Ki in a losing effort, after Low Ki answered Galloway's request for a replacement opponent to the absent Chris Dickinson. On 26 August, Galloway returned to BCW for the sold-out "Live in Kilmarnock" where he defeated former BCW Tag Team Champion Davey Blaze, before being assaulted post-match by The Aggression (Kid Fite, Aaron Echo, Lou King Sharp and Davey Blaze).^[195] The following night at Scottish Wrestling Entertainment in Dundee, Galloway was victorious in a No DQ Fatal Four-Way match against Ethan Carter III, Jack Jester and Joe Hendry.^[196]

Answering Chris Hero's open challenge, Galloway debuted for AAW: Professional Wrestling Redefined (AAW) in a losing effort on 1 September at the "Cero Miedo" event. He returned for "Unstoppable 2016" 30 December to defeat Jeff Cobb and state his intention to wrestle for AAW more frequently.^[197][198] Returning again on 20 January 2017, Galloway was successful in defeating two-time AAW Heavyweight Champion Silas Young in Young's AAW farewell match at the "Don't Stop Believing" event.^[199]

Galloway was badly injured during a WCPW World Championship match with Joseph Conners on 15 September. Galloway was then forced to miss about three months of bookings, including several notable matches, including a match against Aron Rex for the Impact Grand Championship, a match against Jurn Simmons for the wXw Unified World Wrestling Championship as well as dates for Evolve, PCW, ICW, and more. During this time however, Galloway would make non-wrestling appearances for Pro Wrestling Elite (PWE), Scottish Wrestling Association (SWA), and at a RPW/New Japan Pro-Wrestling event.^{[200][201][202]} Galloway returned to the ring at ICW's Fear & Loathing IX event on 20 November as part of Team Black Label in the battle for 100% control of the company.^[203] On 26 November for Wrestlecade in North Carolina. He defeated PJ Black.^[204]

On 28 January, Galloway competed in a 5 Star Wrestling event in a tournament for the 5 Star Wrestling Championship. He defeated Chris Masters but was eliminated by former WWE rival John Morrison.^[205]

Remaining active on the independent scene, following his Impact Wrestling departure, Drew Galloway returned to AAW for their "Homecoming" event on 17 March 2017. He defeated Zema Ion before announcing his intention to challenge for the AAW Heavyweight Championship.^[206][207] That same week, Galloway also returned to IPW:UK for the first time since 2005, defeating Rampage Brown on 19 March 2017 at the "Supershow 7" event. This was Galloway's first victory in IPW:UK competition.^[208]

Total Nonstop Action Wrestling

The Rising and various feuds (2015–2016)

On 29 January 2015, Galloway made a surprise debut under his real name for Total Nonstop Action Wrestling during the tapings of Impact Wrestling as a face in Glasgow, Scotland, coming to the aid of TNA British Boot Camp season 2 competitor Grado and entering a feud with The Beat Down Clan.^[209] The following night, Galloway competed in his first official match for TNA, answering the Beat Down Clan's challenge, he defeated Kenny King.^[210] On 31 January, Galloway defeated MVP by disqualification, after the Beat Down Clan interfered in the match. On 27 March Impact Wrestling episode, he formed the stable "The Rising" with Eli Drake and Micah. On 10 April episode of Impact Wrestling, The Rising defeated The BDC by disqualification when a masked man (Homicide) ran out and attacked Galloway. On 24 April episode of Impact Wrestling, after a match between Micah and Kenny King ended, Galloway and the members of The Rising came to help only to be beaten down. Afterwards Galloway challenged Low Ki to a Steel Pipe on a Pole match at Hardcore Justice, which Galloway won. At Slammiversary, Galloway competed at the King of the Mountain match for the vacant TNA King of the Mountain Championship in a losing effort. On 1 July episode of Impact Wrestling, The Beat Down Clan defeated The Rising in a 4-on-3 Handicap match, forcing The Rising to dissolve.

On 15 July episode of Impact Wrestling, Galloway won a 20-man battle royal to earn the right to face Ethan Carter III for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship later that night, but he lost the match after his former The Rising teammate, Eli Drake attacked him. At No Surrender, Galloway was defeated by Drake. A rematch he scheduled at Turning Point in a No Disqualification match, which Galloway won. On 16 September episode of Impact Wrestling, Team TNA (Galloway, Lashley, Davey Richards, Eddie Edwards and Bram) defeated Team GFW (Jeff Jarrett, Eric Young, Chris Mordetzky, Brian Myers and Sonjay Dutt) in a Lethal Lockdown Match to oust GFW from TNA when Galloway pinned Myers after a Future Shock DDT onto a trash can. On 23 September episode of Impact Wrestling, after winning a five-way elimination match against Bram, Lashley, Davey Richards and Eddie Edwards; Galloway became the number one contender for Ethan Carter III's TNA World Heavyweight Championship.^[211] At Bound for Glory, Galloway competed in a three-way match for the world title, which was won by Matt Hardy. During October and November, Galloway participated in the TNA World Title Series for the vacant title, which he qualified to the round of 16 by defeating Bram, Rockstar Spud and Grado. However, he failed to advance the round of 8 where was defeated in the main event by Lashley, thus being eliminated from the TNA World Title Series.

Galloway then entered a short-lived storyline with Kurt Angle, at TNA One Night Only: Live, Galloway and Angle competed in a 3-Way TNA World Tag Team Championship match which was won by The Wolves. On 12 January 2016 episode of Impact Wrestling, Galloway faced Angle in a losing effort. Galloway would then go on to earn a future TNA World Heavyweight Championship match by grabbing the briefcase that contained said title shot in the 2016 Feast or Fired match. Angle and Galloway faced off in a rematch in Manchester, England on the 9 February episode of Impact Wrestling, where Galloway was victorious, defeating Angle by submission. After the match he bowed before Angle, showing respect due to it being part of Angle's farewell tour.^[212] On the 1 March episode of Impact Wrestling, Galloway was defeated by Mike Bennett. On the 15 March episode of Impact Wrestling, Galloway and Gail Kim were defeated by Mike Bennett and Maria.

TNA World Heavyweight Champion and departure (2016–2017)

On 15 March episode of Impact Wrestling, Galloway cashed in his Feast or Fired briefcase and defeated Matt Hardy to capture the TNA World Heavyweight Championship for the first time in his career, thus becoming the first-ever Scottish-born TNA World Heavyweight Champion.^[213] This also would make him the first man to successfully cash-in a Feast or Fired briefcase for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship. Galloway announced his plan to be "the first traveling World Champion since Ric Flair" and touted upcoming independent defenses across Europe and the United States.^[214] He made his first defense of the title on 29 March episode of Impact Wrestling, defeating Jeff Hardy to retain the title. On 5 April episode of Impact Wrestling, Galloway defeated Matt Hardy in a rematch for TNA World Heavyweight Championship. At Sacrifice, Galloway would overcome rib injuries inflicted from having been repeatedly speared by Lashley to retain his title over the Bound for Gold winner Tyrus. On 17 May episode of Impact Wrestling, Galloway won a lumberjack match against Lashley, who was at the time the #1 contender, by disqualification after he was dragged from the ring and assaulted by the heel lumberjacks, thusly retaining his championship. Galloway would lose the title to Lashley at Slammiversary, ending his reign at 89 days.

Galloway was twice unsuccessful in regaining his championship from Lashley due to the involvement of Ethan Carter III. Galloway and Carter came to blows in an unsanctioned fight at Destination X on 12 July which ended in a no contest. Galloway was one of the eight men to enter the Bound for Glory Playoff tournament to challenge for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship at Bound for Glory. On 22 July episode of Impact Wrestling, Galloway defeated Bram in the first round of the tournament but was eliminated from the semi-finals by Mike Bennett following interference from Moose and a third inadvertent collision with EC3.

On 25 August episode of Impact Wrestling, Galloway faced Ethan Carter III in a losing effort for a world title shot against Lashley at Bound for Glory. After the match, he attacked the special guest referee Aron Rex, turning heel in the process. Galloway and Rex would later feud with each other, with both men joined the qualifying tournament for the inaugural Impact Grand Championship. After defeating Braxton Sutter in the quarterfinals and Eddie Edwards (via split decision) in the semifinals, he was scheduled to face Rex in the finals at Bound for Glory to crown the first Grand Champion, but due to an injury he was replaced by Edwards. On the 8 December episode of Impact Wrestling, Galloway made his return by interrupting the Impact Grand Champion Moose and criticizing the company. On 19 January 2017, Galloway made his in-ring return to TNA, defeating Moose to win the Impact Grand Championship. Galloway would retain the title three times, defeating Moose in a rematch at Genesis, Mahabali Shera on the 9 February episode of Impact Wrestling, and Rob Ryzin^[215] before losing the championship back to Moose via split decision in a second rematch on the 2 March episode of Impact Wrestling.^[216]

On 26 February 2017 Galloway confirmed that he had parted ways with Impact Wrestling.^[217]

Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (2015–2016)

Galloway debuted for Pro Wrestling Guerrilla in August 2015, competing in the Battle of Los Angeles tournament. He was eliminated by eventual finalist "Speedball" Mike Bailey on Night 2 before teaming with Chuck Taylor, Aero Star, Drew Gulak and Trent in a winning ten man tag effort the following night, against Timothy Thatcher, Andrew Everett, Drago, Mark Andrews and Tommaso Ciampa.^[218]

Galloway returned to PWG on 2 Jan 2016 for "Lemmy", where he scored his first PWG singles victory over former PWG World Tag Team Champion Jack Evans. Galloway was granted a title shot at "Bowie" on 12 February 2016, challenging former rival Roderick Strong for the PWG World Championship, but was unsuccessful.^[219] Following the match, Galloway was attacked by both Strong and Adam Cole until Zack Sabre Jr. made the save.^[220] Galloway would return to PWG in March to face Trent and Trevor Lee at "All Star Weekend 12", despite controlling most of the offense in these matches, Galloway lost both contests.^[221]

Galloway returned to winning ways in PWG at "Prince" on 20 May 2016, issuing an open challenge and defeating Michael Elgin.^[222]

What Culture Pro Wrestling (2016–2017)

On August 24, 2016 at the WCPW Stacked Galloway made his debut in What Culture Pro Wrestling defeating Doug Williams. Galloway would then enter in the Kurt Angle Invitational Rumble. However, Galloway was eliminated from the rumble by Marty Scurll. Galloway would then enter in a feud with Joseph Conners after he issues a challenge to Conners for his WCPW World Championship title. Conners furious would then attack Galloway. This led on September 15 a WCPW World Championship match between Conners and Galoway, where he would be badly injured after suffering a Righteous Kill from Conners. Galloway was then forced to miss about three months of bookings. Galloway made a surprise return for WCPW's "Loaded #16", stating that he would be returning to challenge Joseph Conners for the WCPW World Championship on November 30 at the "Delete WCPW" event in a triple threat steel cage match with Conners and Joe Hendry. Galloway was successful in winning the title.^[223] The following night, Galloway retained the title against Hendry and Conners in a rematch. On December, 3 Galloway successfully defended the WCPW World Championship against Matt Hardy at BCW's "No Blood, No Sympathy" in Kilmarnock, Scotland.^[224]

Galloway again retained the WCPW World Championship at "Lights Out" event, defeating Bully Ray on January 13, 2017, before being attacked by Will Ospreay and The Swords of Essex.^[225] On January, 21 Galloway defended the WCPW World Championship internationally for the first time, defeating Anthony Bowens at Battle Club Pro's "Fight Forever" show in The Bronx, New York City.^[226] Between January and February, Galloway continued a feud with Joe Hendry for the WCPW World Championship. They fought to a draw in Edinburgh on "Loaded" before Galloway scored a decisive victory at the "True Destiny" iPPV. Galloway then resumed his feud with Will Ospreay, defeating him at the "Exit Wounds" Live Broadcast Special on March 6, 2017.^[227] This match was given a 4.25 star rating by wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer on his Wrestling Observer Radio podcast.

On March 20, 2017 at WCPW Bulletproof: Championship Showdown Galloway defeated Joe Coffey to retain the WCPW World Championship. Galloway would defeat Ricochet in a non-title match in non-tournament action at WCPW's World Cup: English Qualifiers event.^[228] Galloway would also enter the Scottish leg of the World Cup Tournament, defeating BT Gunn and Mark Coffey to qualify for the international tournament in August.^[229] On April 1 at WCPW State Of Emergency Galloway defeated Rampage to retain the WCPW World Championship. At that same day Galloway signed with WWE, this led to WCPW's general Manager Adam Blampied announcing that Galloway would defend his WCPW World Championship at WCPW No Regrets in the No Regrets rumble match. Galloway would then announce at his Twiiter account that he would enter in the number 1 spot. On April 29, 2017, at No Regrets Galloway lost the WCPW World Championship to Martin Kirby at WCPW No Regrets in a 30-Man elimination rumble match, where he entered first and was the 28th wrestler to be eliminated. Galloway eliminated Drake, Viper, Sha Samuels and Joe Coffey from the match before being eliminated himself by Joe Hendry, following a low-blow and a Future Shock DDT.^[230] At 150 days and nine successful defenses, Galloway is the longest reigning and most fighting WCPW World Champion to date.^[231][232] On April 30, Galloway made his final appearance in WCPW at the Pro Wrestling World Cup Mexican Qualifiyng losing to Cody Rhodes.

Return to WWE

NXT (2017–present)

On 1 April 2017, Galloway, once again billed as Drew McIntyre, was shown on-screen sitting in the front row at NXT TakeOver: Orlando.^[233] It was later confirmed in an exclusive interview with ESPN that he had re-signed with WWE and will perform in its developmental territory NXT. On the 12 April episode of NXT, McIntyre made his NXT re-debut as a face - with new entrance music and displaying mannerisms he had developed on the independent circuit - where he defeated Oney Lorcan.^[234] The following week, McIntyre had an altercation with Andrade Almas, which culminated with a match on 26 April episode of NXT, where McIntyre defeated Almas. Later, McIntyre defeated Wesley Blake on May 24th, who challenged him on the week prior to their match. ^[235] On the July 19th edition of NXT, he defeated Killian Dain to become the #1 contender for the NXT Championship. McIntyre will face Bobby Roode for the title at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn III on Aug 19th.

Personal life

Having grown up in Prestwick, Ayrshire, Galloway studied at Prestwick Academy^[236] and completed a criminology degree at Glasgow Caledonian University.^[237] He is a supporter of Scottish football team Rangers and considered being a professional football player when he was younger. He played for many seasons at Prestwick Boys club, normally in defence before concentrating his sporting activities on wrestling.

In July 2009, Galloway proposed to Taryn Terrell,^[238] and reports of their intention to wed surfaced in January 2010 in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.^[239] The couple married in Las Vegas in May 2010.^{[240][241][242]} On 24 May 2011, Terrell announced that she and Galloway were divorcing.^[242]

On 3 November 2012, Galloway's mother, Angela, died at the age of 51.^[243]

On 17 February 2016, Galloway got engaged in Las Vegas.^[244] On 9 December, he married his long-term partner Kaitlyn Frohnapfel in St. Petersburg, Fl.^[245]

In wrestling

• Finishing moves
  • Claymore (Running single leg front dropkick)^[4] – 2015–present
  • Ego Trip^[246] (Scoop lift spun out into a facebuster)^[247] – 2003–2006
  • Future Shock (Snap double underhook DDT, sometimes while swinging)^{[156][248][249]} – 2009–present
  • G-Spot (Snap piledriver)^[246] – Independent circuit
  • Iron Maiden (Chickenwing over-the-shoulder crossface)
  • Scot Drop^[250] (Reverse STO)^[251] – 2007–2008
  • Thee Move^[246] (Cradle kneeling reverse piledriver)^[247] – Independent circuit
• Signature moves
  • Big boot^[252][253]
  • Celtic Cross (Over-the-shoulder back-to-belly piledriver)^[254]
  • Fireman's carry gutbuster^[255][256]
  • Inverted double leg slam^[257][258]
  • Kneeling reverse piledriver
  • Lifting sitout spinebuster^[259]
  • Multiple clothesline variations
    • Diving^[260]
    • Running^[261]
    • Short-arm^[256][262]
  • Multiple suplex variations
    • Bridging Northern Lights^[263][264]
    • Overhead belly-to-belly^[265]
    • Snap^[252][266]
  • Neckbreaker onto the knee^[267][268]
  • Release powerbomb
  • Shoulder block^[269]
  • Tilt-a-whirl backbreaker^[270][271]
• Managers
  • Charles Boddington^[14]
  • Dave Taylor^[68]
• Wrestlers managed
  • Hornswoggle^[272]
• Nicknames
  • As Drew McIntyre
    • "The Sinister Scotsman" (WWE)^[273]
    • "The Chosen One" (WWE/NXT)
    • "The Great American Nightmare" (WWE)^[274]
  • As Drew Galloway
    • "The Captain" (TNA)^[275][276]
    • "The Insane/New Phenom" (ICW)^[277]
    • "The Scottish Dragon" (TNA)
    • "Thee" (BCW/ICW/IwW)^[247]
    • "The Voice of the People" (TNA)^[278]
    • "Mr. FITE TV" (Evolve/ICW/TNA)^[279]
• Entrance themes
  • World Wrestling Entertainment/WWE
    • "It's Too Late" by Jim Johnston & David Rasner (28 August 2009)
    • "Seeing Red" by Jim Johnston (25 September 2009 – 5 February 2010)
    • "Broken Dreams" by Shaman's Harvest (12 February 2010 – 1 August 2012)^[280][281]
    • "More Than One Man" by Jim Johnston (25 October 2012 – 12 June 2014; used as a member of 3MB)^[282]
    • "Gallantry" by CFO$ (NXT; 12 April 2017 – present)
  • Independent circuit
    • "Wish It Away" by Psyko Dalek (Evolve / ICW; 8 August 2014 – 31 March 2017)^[283]
    • "Saviour" by David Grimason (WCPW; 12 February 2017 – 29 April 2017)^[284]
  • Total Nonstop Action Wrestling
    • "Wish It Away" (w/ Intro cut) by Psyko Dalek (2 March 2015 – 1 May 2015, 6 January 2016 – 19 January 2017, 9 February 2017 – 23 February 2017)
    • "The Ghost in Us" by Dale Oliver and Serg Salinas (8 May 2015 – 2 December 2015, 26 January 2017 – 2 February 2017, 2 March 2017 – 17 March 2017)^[285][286]

Championships and accomplishments

• Danish Pro Wrestling
  • DPW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[287]
• EVOLVE Wrestling
  • Evolve Championship (1 time)^[156]
  • Evolve Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Johnny Gargano^[169] (1), Dustin (1)^[171]
  • Evolve Tag Team Championship Tournament (2016) – with Johnny Gargano^[169]
  • Open the Freedom Gate Championship (1 time)^[162]
• Fighting Spirit Magazine
  • British Wrestler of the Year (2014)
• Florida Championship Wrestling
  • FCW Florida Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[75]
  • FCW Florida Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Stu Sanders^[74]
• Insane Championship Wrestling
  • ICW World Heavyweight Championship (2 times)^[2]
  • ICW Award for Best on the Mic (2016)
  • ICW Award for Feud of the Year (2016) – The Black Label vs Insane Championship Wrestling
  • ICW Award for Moment of the Year (2014) – Surprise return at "Shug's Hoose Party"^[288]
• Irish Whip Wrestling
  • IWW International Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[43]
• Outback Championship Wrestling
  • OCW World Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[140][289]
• Preston City Wrestling
  • There Can Be Only One Gauntlet (2016)^[192]
• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
  • Ranked No. 11 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the PWI 500 in 2016^[290]
• Scottish Wrestling Alliance
  • Scottish Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^{[291][292][293]}
• Total Nonstop Action Wrestling
  • Impact Grand Championship (1 time)^[216]
  • TNA World Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • Feast or Fired (2016 – TNA World Heavyweight Championship contract)
  • Global Impact Tournament (2015) – with Team International (Magnus, The Great Muta, Tigre Uno, Bram, Rockstar Spud, Khoya, Sonjay Dutt and Angelina Love)
  • TNA Joker's Wild (2016)^[294]
• Union of European Wrestling Alliances
  • European Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[295][296]
• What Culture Pro Wrestling
  • WCPW World Championship (1 time)^[297]
  • WCPW World Cup: Scotland Tournament (2017) – with Joe Coffey^[298]
• World Wrestling Entertainment
  • WWE Intercontinental Championship (1 time)^[299]
  • WWE Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Cody Rhodes^[300]
• Wrestlezone Scotland
  • Battle of the Nations (2014) – representing Scotland^{[176][301][302]}

References

External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Drew Galloway.

• Drew McIntyre on WWE.com
• IwW profile at the Wayback Machine (archived 17 April 2008)
• RQW profile at the Wayback Machine (archived 14 January 2008)
• Drew McIntyre on Twitter
• Drew McIntyre on Facebook
• Drew McIntyre on Instagram
• Drew McIntyre's profile at Cagematch.net, Wrestlingdata.com, Internet Wrestling Database
• Drew McIntyre on IMDb