Gunther accuses Cody Rhodes of making his SmackDown arrival about himself ‘just like a typical American’
Gunther rejects Rhodes contract offer on SmackDown
Gunther declined to sign a contract for a title match against Cody Rhodes during the May 15, 2026 edition of Friday Night SmackDown. Rhodes arrived in the ring with tables and chairs already set and urged Gunther to complete the paperwork. Paul Heyman had arranged the proposed contest for the Undisputed WWE Championship at Clash in Italy.
After Gunther voiced objections about Rhodes directing attention toward himself, wrestler Royce Keys entered the ring and offered to sign the agreement in Gunther’s place. SmackDown general manager Nick Aldis ruled that Gunther had forfeited his guaranteed opportunity and scheduled an immediate match between Gunther and Keys.
With Solo Sikoa at ringside, Gunther defeated Keys by pinfall after a powerbomb once the referee recovered from an earlier knockdown. Rhodes then attacked Gunther from behind as Gunther celebrated the victory. Earlier in the evening, Carmelo Hayes pinned Ricky Saints in a United States Championship contender’s match.
The outcome leaves Gunther without an assured title shot at Clash in Italy while Rhodes remains champion. No further matches or contract negotiations were announced on the broadcast.
