WWE is apparently saving Cody Rhodes and Gunther for the very end of SmackDown tonight.
According to Rope Break, the closing segment for the May 22 episode of SmackDown will feature Rhodes and Gunther face-to-face before Saturday Night’s Main Event. This istantly gives SmackDown a huge final hook heading into the weekend, especially with both men sitting near the top of WWE right now.
Tonight’s show from Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky is already loaded. WWE previously confirmed that Rhea Ripley will open the broadcast to respond to Jade Cargill’s rematch challenge, while Tiffany Stratton is set for a Women’s United States Championship open challenge. Now it looks like Cody Rhodes and Gunther will close things out.
Confirmed for WWE SmackDown on May 22, 2026:
- Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Talla Tonga
- Cody Rhodes and Gunther close the show
- Rhea Ripley opens SmackDown
- WWE Women’s United States Championship Open Challenge: Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. TBA
- Carmelo Hayes sends a message to Trick Williams and Lil Yachty
WWE SmackDown airs tonight at 8 PM ET on USA Network. Ringside News will have full live coverage and results throughout the entire show.
What do you think WWE has planned for Cody Rhodes and Gunther tonight? Let us know in the comments.
