It is time for another eWrestlingNews Question of the Day!
Following the events of the most recent episode of Friday Night SmackDown, Gunther is scheduled to announce a specific stipulation for his upcoming rematch against Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship next week.
Our question for you today: “What stipulation should The Ring General demand for this encounter?”
Please share your thoughts and predictions in the comments section below.
My Analysis
The ideal stipulation largely depends on which event this match takes place on and the broader trajectory leading into SummerSlam.
If the match is slated for Night of Champions, a heavy gimmick—such as a Hell in a Cell match—would likely be premature. With the King and Queen of the Ring finals already on the card, it is wiser to save high-concept matches for Saturday Night’s Main Event to bolster what may be a lighter lineup.
Furthermore, Gunther’s character presents a unique booking challenge. As a traditionalist who prides himself on pure wrestling, it is unlikely he would request a Last Man Standing or Falls Count Anywhere match. While this doesn’t feel like an “I Quit” style rivalry, a submission match could be a logical choice if the creative goal is to see Gunther capture the title.
There is also the variable of Sami Zayn. If Zayn is being positioned for a match against Rhodes at SNME, or if the plan is a Triple Threat match involving all three men, the stipulation should reflect that. A compelling scenario would be placing Zayn as the special guest referee, echoing the tension of SummerSlam 1997. This would put Zayn in a precarious position where he might inadvertently cost Cody the title or intentionally intervene, believing he is more capable of defeating Gunther than Cody is.
If Zayn is not part of the SummerSlam equation, we may see Rhodes and Gunther collide again in Minnesota. In that case, WWE cannot burn through hardcore match types too early. To maintain a sense of escalation for a potential third match, a more moderate stipulation is needed. The most fitting choice for Gunther’s mindset would be a 2-out-of-3 falls match; this would ensure he isn’t derailed by a single fluke finish and provides him multiple opportunities to prove his superiority.
What is your take? Let us know your thoughts below!