Gunther attacked Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes during the May 22, 2026 [1], episode of SmackDown.
The assault marks a pivotal shift in the championship landscape, establishing Gunther as a primary threat to Rhodes' title reign. By targeting the champion, Gunther has positioned himself as the No. 1 contender for the Undisputed WWE Title [4].
The incident occurred at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky [2]. The attack followed a night of high stakes for both competitors. Earlier in the broadcast, Gunther secured a victory in a No. 1 contender's match against Royce Keys [3].
Following his own match, Rhodes became the target of a vicious assault. Gunther used the opportunity to send a strong message to the champion regarding his intentions [4]. The attack was designed to establish dominance and signal that the champion's position is under immediate threat.
This confrontation serves as the official catalyst for a future title match. Both competitors are now expected to face off at the upcoming Clash in Italy event [4]. The physical nature of the assault suggests a high-intensity rivalry heading into the premium live event.
While some reports differed on the specific sequence of events leading to the attack, the primary outcome remains the same. Gunther has successfully transitioned from a contender to an active antagonist for the Undisputed WWE Champion [1]. The WWE landscape now centers on the impending collision between the two powerhouses in Italy.
“Gunther attacked Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes”
This attack formalizes the transition of the Undisputed WWE Championship narrative toward Gunther. By leveraging a victory over Royce Keys to secure contender status and then physically assaulting the champion, Gunther has shifted the momentum of the title picture. The move sets the stage for a high-profile international clash in Italy, emphasizing a theme of dominance and aggression over the champion's current tenure.
