Cody Rhodes Holds Undisputed WWE Championship on SmackDown Before Night of Champions

On June 19, 2026, WWE SmackDown was broadcast live from the T‑Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri. Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes faced challenger Gunther with Sami Zayn serving as the special guest referee. The match featured multiple officiating controversies, including a disputed break, a power‑bomb on Zayn, and a fast count by Zayn that allowed Rhodes to retain the title.

Wrestling analysts note that Rhodes will defend the championship again at the upcoming Night of Champions event in Saudi Arabia, where tensions with Gunther and Zayn could lead to a title change. Possible storyline developments include a return by Randy Orton and further confrontations involving the Bloodline faction.