Gunther accuses Cody Rhodes of making his SmackDown arrival about himself ‘just like a typical American’
Gunther rejects Cody Rhodes contract demand on SmackDown
Gunther declined to sign a SmackDown contract during the May 15, 2026 episode in Columbia, South Carolina, after Paul Heyman secured him a title match against Cody Rhodes at Clash in Italy. Rhodes entered the ring, placed the contract on a table, and urged Gunther to complete the signing. Gunther accused Rhodes of centering the moment on himself and demanded a professional approach before any agreement.
Royce Keys interrupted the segment and offered to sign the contract in Gunther’s place. SmackDown general manager Nick Aldis ruled that Gunther had forfeited the guaranteed opportunity and scheduled an immediate match between Gunther and Keys to determine the next challenger.
Keys entered the main event with Solo Sikoa at ringside. Gunther won the match after a referee distraction allowed him to deliver a powerbomb for the pinfall. Rhodes then attacked Gunther from behind as the latter celebrated the victory.
Carmelo Hayes defeated Ricky Saints earlier in the evening via roll-up after using the ropes for leverage, keeping both wrestlers in contention for future United States Championship opportunities.
