Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes was involved in a chaotic confrontation with Gunther, Sami Zayn, Jey Uso, and Oba Femi on SmackDown [1].

This clash serves as a critical buildup for the Night of Champions event, intensifying the rivalry between Rhodes and Gunther before their high-stakes encounter in Saudi Arabia.

The incident occurred during the May 22, 2026 [1], episode of SmackDown broadcast from Lexington. The segment featured a series of interruptions and interferences that disrupted the championship storyline involving Rhodes. Gunther and Rhodes were at the center of the conflict, while Sami Zayn attempted to intervene in the escalating tension [2, 3].

Jey Uso and Oba Femi also participated in the unrest, contributing to the volatility of the segment [1]. The confrontation was designed to establish the psychological and physical stakes for the competitors as they prepare for the upcoming premium live event.

WWE has scheduled the Night of Champions for June 27, 2026 [4]. The event will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia [4]. This international setting provides the backdrop for the resolution of the conflicts sparked during the Lexington broadcast.

The rivalry has grown through a series of targeted attacks and verbal exchanges. Zayn's role in the segment highlighted the complex alliances, and frictions currently defining the Undisputed WWE Championship picture. The chaos in Lexington ensures that the competitors enter the Riyadh event with significant momentum and unresolved grievances [2, 3].

“Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes was involved in a chaotic confrontation with Gunther, Sami Zayn, Jey Uso, and Oba Femi.”

The use of multi-man brawls on SmackDown is a strategic storytelling tool to elevate the perceived threat of the challenger, Gunther, while testing the champion's stability. By involving established stars like Sami Zayn and Jey Uso, WWE creates a wider web of conflict that increases the commercial appeal of the Night of Champions event in Riyadh.