Cody Rhodes initiated a rivalry with Gunther on the May 15, 2026 episode of SmackDown. Moments after Gunther defeated Royce Keys to secure the No. 1 Contender spot for the Undisputed WWE Championship, Rhodes delivered a surprise attack and planted The Ring General with Cross Rhodes.
The post-match confrontation places Rhodes directly in Gunther’s path as the former Intercontinental Champion moves toward a title opportunity. Gunther’s win over Keys positioned him as the next challenger for the Undisputed WWE Championship, while Rhodes’ attack established his intent to confront him heading into the championship picture.
Both wrestlers enter the rivalry with clear motivations cited on the broadcast: Gunther pursuing the championship he earned a shot at by defeating Keys, and Rhodes asserting himself by striking first with his finishing move.