Gunther rejects Rhodes contract demand on SmackDown

Gunther declined to sign a contract for a title match against Cody Rhodes at Clash in Italy during Friday Night SmackDown. Rhodes prepared the ring with tables and chairs before Gunther arrived and accused the champion of turning the segment into a personal showcase. The confrontation ended without an agreement after Gunther objected to the terms presented.

Paul Heyman had arranged the proposed match following Gunther’s unsuccessful contract negotiations with SmackDown. Rhodes, positioned as the leading figure on the brand, responded that Gunther had initiated the favor through Heyman and urged him to sign the agreement on the spot. Gunther stated that Rhodes was interfering with his planning and insisted on being addressed professionally.

Royce Keys entered the ring and offered to sign the contract in Gunther’s place. SmackDown general manager Nick Aldis ruled that Gunther had lost his guaranteed opportunity and scheduled a match between Gunther and Keys for later in the evening. Gunther defeated Keys after Solo Sikoa’s interference created an opening for a powerbomb pinfall.

Rhodes attacked Gunther from behind as the latter celebrated the victory. The segment concluded without a confirmed title match for Clash in Italy, leaving the championship situation unresolved heading into the event.