Gunther accuses Cody Rhodes of making his SmackDown arrival about himself ‘just like a typical American’

WWE's newest star Royce Keys details his debut with the company and future goals in an interview with Fox News Digital.

Gunther had two decisions to make on "Friday Night SmackDown."

After he failed to sign a contract with SmackDown, the favor he wanted from Paul Heyman appeared to come to fruition. Heyman got Gunther a match at Clash in Italy for Cody Rhodes’ Undisputed WWE Championship.

Heyman put the onus on Rhodes – the face of the blue brand – to make Gunther sign the contracts. Rhodes got to the ring and setup the tables and chairs himself as he awaited Gunther to come to the ring.

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Wrestler Gunther makes his entrance during SmackDown at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, S.C., on May 15, 2026. (Rich Wade/WWE)

Gunther was upset that Rhodes allegedly impeded on Gunther’s "strategic planning" that went into signing with SmackDown. He said Rhodes made his arrival to SmackDown all about himself.

"Just like a typical American. I shouldn’t be surprised. I see it on your neck every week," the 6-foot-4 Austrian said of Rhodes’ neck tattoo. "When the attention is not on you, you cry, you complain and you find a way to make it all about yourself. But not like me. This is my deal. This is my title match. This will be my title. So, golden boy, all I want you to do is be professional, address me nicely and don’t forget to say please. It’s very simple."

Rhodes reminded that Gunther "got the drop" on him and that he got Heyman to do a favor for him.

"Yes, I’m the one with the U.S. flag on the side of my neck, sure, but you’re the one who’s making it weird," Rhodes responded. "So, here’s the thing, I’m going to make it simple. This is the contract right