Rock mass classification is a fundamental component in tunnel engineering construction. With the rapid advancement of mechanized and intelligent construction technologies in China, drilling-parameter-based intelligent rock mass classification methods have become crucial in facilitating smart mechanized tunneling. This need is especially pronounced in the mountainous regions of Western China, where complex terrain and challenging construction, combined with limited experience in mechanized tunneling and the restricted applicability of current intelligent rock mass classification methods, make mechanized construction crucial for improving project quality and effectively controlling construction risks. A predictive method was proposed for intelligent rock mass classification using drilling measurement parameters. Focusing on multiple long tunnels as research subjects, on-site drilling parameters were collected and rock mass mechanical tests was conducted to construct a drilling parameter database, then intelligent algorithms was applied, such as support vector regression (SVR) and particle swarm optimization-back propagation (PSO-BP), to develop a predictive model for rock mass classification. The result indicates that the absolute value of correlation coefficient | r_s | between drilling parameters and rock mass classification indices is greater than 0.6, demonstrating a significant correlation, where torque and rotational speed show the strongest correlation with rock mass classification indices. A standardized parameter index database with 574 ideal samples was established through data-cleaning tools. Comparative analysis of predictive accuracy across intelligent algorithms indicated that the PSO-BP model demonstrated the best performance. The PSO-BP neural network-based prediction model was validated by transient electromagnetic(TEM) and tunnel seismic prediction (TSP) advanced geological forecasting, confirming its accuracy in predicting rock mass classification and providing reliable support for mechanized tunnel excavation.