Gunther challenges Cody Rhodes over contract timing on SmackDown
Gunther confronted Cody Rhodes on Friday Night SmackDown after Paul Heyman arranged a title match for the Austrian at Clash in Italy. Rhodes entered the ring and prepared the signing table, prompting Gunther to accuse him of turning the moment into a personal showcase. The exchange escalated when Gunther told Rhodes to act professionally and say “please” before signing.
Rhodes countered that Gunther had used Heyman to secure the opportunity and demanded he enter the ring to complete the contract. The segment was interrupted by newcomer Royce Keys, who offered to sign in Gunther’s place if he refused. SmackDown general manager Nick Aldis ruled that Gunther had forfeited any guaranteed title shot and booked a main-event match between the two wrestlers.
With Solo Sikoa at ringside urging Keys to align with his group, Gunther overcame the distraction to defeat Keys via powerbomb after a referee bump. Rhodes then attacked Gunther from behind as the winner celebrated. Earlier in the evening, Carmelo Hayes defeated Ricky Saints in a United States Championship contender’s match by rolling him up with illegal leverage.
The confrontation leaves Gunther’s status for the Clash in Italy title match uncertain, while Rhodes retains the Undisputed WWE Championship heading into the event.
