WWE SmackDown Highlights: Cody Rhodes Sets Up Night of Champions Triple-Threat Match

Triple-Threat Match Approval

Cody Rhodes, the undisputed WWE champion, successfully pushed for a triple-threat match at Night of Champions. Rhodes demanded SmackDown general manager Nick Aldis organize the bout against Gunther and Sami Zayn. Rhodes aimed to overcome these challengers and address their persistent complaints.

SmackDown Night Drama

The evening began with high stakes as Zayn served as guest referee for Gunther’s championship match against Rhodes. Despite Zayn’s assertions of fairness, tensions escalated. Zayn intervened when Gunther pressed Rhodes in a submission hold, prompting frustration. Gunther responded aggressively, powerbombing Rhodes.

Despite new assistance, Zayn pulled the substitute referee out during Gunther’s pin attempt. Rhodes fought back, attempting to sunset flip Gunther, with Zayn removing Gunther’s hands from the ropes. Rhodes secured a pin and quickly won, retaining his title thanks to Zayn’s fast count.

Backstage Confrontations

A heated exchange followed, with Gunther seeking a match and Zayn disqualifying him. Zayn knocked Rhodes with the championship belt in potential error, further agitating Aldis. Yet, Zayn stood firm, insisting his officiating was unbiased and reminding Aldis of his initial request for Zayn as referee. Rhodes ultimately demanded the triple-threat match.

King and Queen of the Ring Updates

Also noteworthy on SmackDown, Jey Uso and Je’Von Evans went head-to-head for the King of the Ring finals spot. Uso, a former world heavyweight champion, grasped victory without backup from The Bloodline or Solo Sikoa.

In the Queen of the Ring tournament, Liv Morgan faced Charlotte Flair. Prior attacks on Flair’s knee by Jade Cargill and her allies gave Morgan the upper hand. Morgan capitalized with Flair’s knee, achieving victory via submission and advancing to challenge Iyo Sky for a title shot. Already champion, Morgan set her sights on Rhea Ripley’s WWE Women’s Championship.

Match Results

• Cody Rhodes successfully defended the Undisputed WWE Championship against Gunther.
• Gunther defeated Cody Rhodes by disqualification.
• Damian Priest and R-Truth retained the WWE Tag Team Championship, beating Talla Tonga and Tama Tonga.
• Ricky Saints secured a No. 1 contender position for the United States Championship by defeating Carmelo Hayes.
• Jey Uso triumphed over Je’Von Evans in the King of the Ring Tournament.
• Liv Morgan surpassed Charlotte Flair in the Queen of the Ring Tournament.

With these developments, Night of Champions promises to be a thrilling event, with key matches set to impact future championships.