Gunther criticizes Cody Rhodes for shifting focus during contract signing
At the conclusion of the May 15, 2026, episode of Friday Night SmackDown in Columbia, South Carolina, Gunther confronted Cody Rhodes over the handling of contract negotiations for a championship match at Clash in Italy. Rhodes had arranged the ring setup himself after Gunther declined to sign with the brand, prompting the exchange between the two competitors.
General manager Nick Aldis informed Gunther that his preferred match opportunity was no longer assured after the interruption. Aldis instead scheduled a match between Gunther and Royce Keys for later in the broadcast, with the winner positioned for future title consideration.
During the main event, Gunther defeated Royce Keys following a distraction that allowed a powerbomb and subsequent pinfall. Rhodes then attacked Gunther from behind as the latter celebrated the victory, setting up their confrontation at Clash in Italy.
Carmelo Hayes and Ricky Saints also competed earlier in the night in a match related to the United States Championship picture, with Hayes securing the win via roll-up after using the ropes for leverage.
