Gunther rejects contract signing until Rhodes offers respect
On the May 15, 2026 episode of SmackDown, Gunther refused to sign a contract for a championship match against Cody Rhodes at Clash in Italy after Rhodes prepared the ring and tables himself. Gunther told Rhodes that the setup turned the moment into a personal spotlight rather than a formal agreement. Rhodes countered that Gunther had already secured the opportunity through Paul Heyman and simply needed to complete the paperwork in the ring.
The confrontation followed Gunther’s earlier failure to finalize a SmackDown contract. Rhodes, positioned as the lead figure on the brand, waited in the ring for Gunther to arrive and complete the documents. Gunther stated that Rhodes should address him professionally and include the word “please” to finalize the deal.
Royce Keys entered during the segment and offered to sign the contract if Gunther declined. Gunther took the pen away before Keys could finish. SmackDown general manager Nick Aldis ruled that Gunther had forfeited the guaranteed title shot and scheduled a match between Gunther and Keys for the same night.
Keys entered the match with Solo Sikoa at ringside. A referee bump allowed Sikoa to slide a chair into the ring, which Keys rejected. Gunther used the distraction to deliver a powerbomb and secure the pinfall victory. Rhodes then attacked Gunther from behind as Gunther celebrated.
