Gunther rejects contract demand after Rhodes confrontation on SmackDown
During the May 15 episode of SmackDown, Gunther turned down Cody Rhodes’ request to sign a contract for a title match at Clash in Italy. Rhodes had set up the ring table and chairs before Gunther entered and accused the champion of turning the moment into a personal issue. The two traded words over the signing process before the segment moved forward.
Paul Heyman had arranged the title opportunity for Gunther after earlier contract talks with SmackDown fell through. Rhodes, presented as the leading figure on the brand, placed the contract in the ring and asked Gunther to complete the signing. Gunther objected to the timing and the public nature of the exchange.
After Gunther refused to sign, newcomer Royce Keys entered the ring and offered to take the match instead. SmackDown general manager Nick Aldis then scheduled Gunther against Keys for the main event. Gunther defeated Keys by pinfall following a distraction involving Solo Sikoa and a chair.
Immediately after the match, Rhodes attacked Gunther from behind as the Austrian celebrated the victory. The outcome left the title match status unresolved heading into Clash in Italy.
