Cody Rhodes retains WWE title after controversial finish in Italy, set for SmackDown rematch

At WWE Clash in Italy, Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes kept his title when officials missed Gunther’s foot under the bottom rope during the pin. Gunther protested the decision, and Rhodes offered a rematch on the following night’s SmackDown broadcast from Bologna’s Unipol Arena.

The SmackDown show will feature the King and Queen of the Ring quarter‑finals and appearances by Rhodes, Gunther, women’s champion Rhea Ripley, Jade Cargill and others. WWE Hall‑of‑Famer Eric Bischoff argued the outcome should have turned Rhodes heel to revitalize the product, noting the brand’s recent “flatlining.” The rematch’s stipulation will be chosen by Gunther, with details pending.

Both articles describe the same storyline surrounding the Italy event and the upcoming SmackDown episode.