Gunther is ready for one of the biggest matches of his WWE career as he prepares to challenge The American NightMare Cody Rhodes for the undisputed WWE Championship at Clash in Italy. The ring general has looked almost unstoppable in recent months and has destroyed several top names in his WWE career.
Because of his strong momentum, many fans believe Gunthar has a real chance to leave Italy as the new champion.
However, recent WWE developments are pointing toward a different direction. There are now serval major signs that Cody Rhodes could successfully retain his championship at the premium live event.
Brock Lesnar’s return could change WWE’s plans
One of the biggest surprises in recent memory was Brock Lesnar’s return to WWE television. Before his return, there were many rumours that Gunther was originally planned for a huge match against Lesnar later this year.
Those plans were called into question when Lesnar reportedly disappeared after WrestleMania 42. That led to WWE putting Gunther into the title picture against Cody Rhodes on SmackDown.
But now, Lesnar is back again and maybe things have changed again.
However, many fans believe WWE could still proceed with the dream match between Gunther and Brock Lesnar at SummerSlam. If so, Gunther may wind up working his way back to RAW at some point, instead of being pigeonholed in the SmackDown top championship picture.
That’s why it might not be in WWE’s long-term plans to put the Undisputed WWE Championship around Gunther’s waist right now.
Randy Orton’s Return Nears
Cody Rhodes may keep the belt for a third reason: the potential return of Randy Orton.
The Viper has not been seen since WrestleMania 42 where he faced Cody Rhodes. Earlier reports suggested that Orton was dealing with injury problems and many fans have thought that WWE is shifting its focus to Gunther.
Orton, on the other hand, recently squashed those rumours and confirmed that he’s just taking some time off before he returns soon.
This alters the situation completely.
The Cody Rhodes/Randy Orton feud feels like it’s not quite done. WWE has already brewed up a great story of Orton chasing his 15th world title and many fans are expecting that feud to continue when he returns.
If WWE is planning a big Cody vs. Orton match for SummerSlam, it’s a lot harder to see Gunther winning the title in Italy.
Tribal Combat Could Become The Main Event
There is also another big factor that fans are talking about.
According to reports, the Tribal Combat match between Roman Reigns and Jacob Fatu is now expected to headline Clash in Italy, instead of Cody Rhodes vs. Gunther.
This rivalry has become one of the hottest stories in WWE post WrestleMania 42 very quickly. The family drama, betrayals and emotional tension have created huge buzz among fans.
If Roman Reigns and Jacob Fatu close the show, WWE may be able to get away with not doing a big title change earlier in the show.
WWE generally likes to have major championship wins happen in the main event spotlight. Having Gunther win the Undisputed WWE Championship in a non-main event match could diminish the impact of such a historic moment.
That makes Cody Rhodes retaining the championship feel like a stronger possibility now.
Gunther Still Remains Dangerous
With all these signs pointing towards Cody Rhodes, fans know how dangerous Gunther can be inside the ring. His dominance, physical style and confidence make him one of the toughest competitors in the WWE today.
Cody Rhodes can make one mistake and the match can be totally different.
That’s why many fans still feel Clash in Italy could be one of the biggest surprises of the year if Gunther somehow finds a way to end his dominant run with championship gold.
Also Read: WWE Superstars With Jaw-Dropping Body Transformations
