Gunther launched a brutal blindside attack on Cody Rhodes backstage during the July 6, 2026 [1], episode of WWE RAW.
The assault occurred just hours before Rhodes was scheduled to compete in a title match against Sami Zayn. This incident significantly alters the physical condition of the champion heading into one of the most anticipated matches of the broadcast.
Rhodes was left bloodied following the encounter in the backstage area of the arena. The attack served as a strategic move to weaken the champion before his Undisputed WWE Championship defense. By targeting Rhodes in a non-combat environment, Gunther ensured the champion would enter the ring compromised.
This development advances a growing rivalry between the two competitors. The timing of the strike suggests a calculated effort to influence the outcome of the match against Zayn, a tactic designed to create chaos within the championship picture.
While the specific arena for the broadcast was not disclosed, the footage of the incident was shared as part of the RAW highlights. The bloodied state of Rhodes provided a stark visual contrast to his usual preparation for title defenses.
“Gunther delivered a brutal blind-side attack on Cody Rhodes backstage, leaving him bloodied”
This attack establishes Gunther as a primary disruptor in the Undisputed WWE Championship landscape. By physically incapacitating Rhodes immediately before a title defense, Gunther has not only damaged the champion but has also potentially shifted the competitive advantage toward Sami Zayn, complicating the narrative of the title match.
