WWE SmackDown: Cody Rhodes to Defend Title in Triple-Threat Match

Cody Rhodes, the undisputed WWE champion, has been set to defend his title in a high-stakes triple-threat match at Night of Champions. This decision followed Rhodes’ demand to SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis for a match against Gunther and Sami Zayn.

The tensions escalated on “Friday Night SmackDown” when Zayn served as a guest referee at Gunther’s request for his championship match against Rhodes. Despite Zayn’s assertion of neutrality, chaos ensued. Gunther’s attempt to overpower Rhodes resulted in Zayn intervening, leading to a series of events that further complicated the match dynamic.

After a new referee was brought in, Zayn strategically intervened, allowing Rhodes to retain his title by disconnecting Gunther’s grip off the ropes and making a fast count. The outcome led to disagreements backstage, with Gunther demanding a rematch and taking his frustrations out on Zayn. Rhodes, from within the ring, also called for a new match, culminating in the setup of the triple-threat match.

Aldis and Zayn clashed over the events, with Zayn defending his actions and reminding Aldis of his initial decision to involve him as a referee. The escalation of events resulted in the planned confrontation at Night of Champions.

King and Queen of the Ring Determinations

On the same night, Jey Uso and Je’Von Evans vied for a place in the King of the Ring finals. Uso, known for his tenure as a former world heavyweight champion, faced off against the emerging rookie Evans. Uso triumphed without assistance from The Bloodline, earning his spot to challenge Oba Femi at Night of Champions.

In the Queen of the Ring semifinals, Liv Morgan faced Charlotte Flair. The match tilted in Morgan’s favor following an attack on Flair’s knee by Jade Cargill and her allies, Michin and B-Fab. Morgan capitalized on this advantage, ultimately making Flair submit to a half-Boston crab. Morgan’s victory secured her a place in the finals against Iyo Sky, with a potential opportunity to challenge for the WWE Women’s Championship.

SmackDown Match Results

• Cody Rhodes (c) def. Gunther to retain the Undisputed WWE Championship.
• Gunther def. Cody Rhodes via disqualification.
• Damian Priest and R-Truth (c) def. Talla Tonga and Tama Tonga to retain the WWE Tag Team Championship.
• Ricky Saints def. Carmelo Hayes to earn No. 1 contender spot for the United States Championship.
• Jey Uso def. Je’Von Evans in the King of the Ring Tournament.
• Liv Morgan def. Charlotte Flair in the Queen of the Ring Tournament.