Cody Rhodes and Gunther faced off on Friday Night SmackDown ahead of their Undisputed WWE Championship match at Clash in Italy. Gunther, who secured the title shot through a favor owed by Paul Heyman, attacked Rhodes multiple times in the lead-up. In a pointed address, Gunther called Rhodes a product of a culture of egotism, narcissism, and nepotism, and labeled him 'the perfect symbol of the crumbling American dream.'
Gunther detailed his own journey from Europe to America, built on hard work and sacrifice, contrasting it with Rhodes's career, which he claimed relied on connections. Rhodes fired back, calling Gunther a 'liar' and challenging his motives, saying he wants the attention and weight that comes with the championship. 'You're just not that good,' Rhodes warned.
Earlier, Sami Zayn confronted Rhodes after he turned his back during Gunther's attack. Zayn said he let Rhodes suffer to 'learn a lesson,' despite wanting to help. Rhodes vowed to teach Zayn a lesson after finishing with Gunther.
Rhea Ripley and Jade Cargill exchanged barbs ahead of their WWE Women's Championship match. Ripley dismissed Cargill's reliance on allies, reminding her of her WrestleMania victory. Cargill called Ripley weak, prompting Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss to come to Ripley's aid. SmackDown GM Nick Aldis made a match between Cargill and Bliss, which Cargill won.
Trick Williams declared for the King of the Ring Tournament, prompting Carmelo Hayes to interrupt. Their rivalry intensified, with Williams slapping Ricky Saints. The winner of Hayes vs. Saints will get a U.S. title shot.