Cody Rhodes Retains Undisputed WWE Title as Zayn Referees

Cody Rhodes retained his Undisputed WWE Championship in a chaotic main event on Friday Night SmackDown in Kansas City, defeating Gunther in a match officiated by special guest referee Sami Zayn. The June 19 broadcast from the T-Mobile Center also set the stage for several major title matches at the upcoming Night of Champions event.

The championship rematch, which aired commercial-free, was defined by Zayn's strict and controversial officiating. The referee repeatedly intervened, breaking holds and later refusing to count a pin following a powerbomb attempt by Gunther. Tensions escalated when Rhodes shoved Zayn, leading to a physical altercation that saw Zayn inadvertently place Rhodes in Gunther's path, allowing the challenger to apply a sleeper hold. The match concluded in turmoil as Rhodes secured a sunset flip and Zayn delivered a fast three-count, a finish that left Gunther furious. Following the bout, it was officially announced that Rhodes will defend his title against both Gunther and Sami Zayn in a triple threat match at Night of Champions.

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