Gunther accuses Cody Rhodes of making his SmackDown arrival about himself ‘just like a typical American’
SmackDown segment erupts as Gunther rejects Rhodes contract offer
During the May 15, 2026 edition of Friday Night SmackDown at the Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina, Gunther declined to sign a contract for a title match against Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes at Clash in Italy. Paul Heyman had arranged the opportunity after Gunther failed to secure a SmackDown contract, prompting Rhodes to appear in the ring and prepare the documents.
Gunther stated that Rhodes had interfered with his planned approach to joining the brand. Rhodes countered that Gunther had obtained the match through Heyman and directed him to enter the ring to complete the signing.
Royce Keys interrupted the exchange and offered to sign the contract in Gunther’s place. SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis then scheduled a match between Gunther and Keys for later that night.
Gunther defeated Keys after a distraction involving Solo Sikoa allowed Gunther to deliver a powerbomb for the pinfall. Rhodes subsequently attacked Gunther from behind as he celebrated the victory.
