Gunther To Explain Cody Rhodes Attack As Gingerbread Man Funeral Set For SmackDown

Next week’s go-home SmackDown before Backlash is shaping up as one of the most loaded blue-brand episodes of the year. WWE has confirmed several segments and matches for the May 8 broadcast, headlined by The Ring General’s first explanation for his post-match assault on the Undisputed WWE Champion.

On Friday’s SmackDown, Cody Rhodes successfully defended the Undisputed WWE Championship against debuting former NXT star Ricky Saints. Moments after the bell, Gunther emerged from the back and ambushed Rhodes from behind, sending a clear message about who he sees as his next title target. WWE has confirmed Gunther will appear on next week’s SmackDown to explain his actions, all but locking in a future championship program between the two.

The women’s title scene is also moving. Kiana James lobbied for a Women’s United States Championship rematch on behalf of Giulia, but champion Tiffany Stratton ended up granting the title shot to James herself instead. Stratton vs. James for the Women’s United States Championship is now set for May 8.

The Fatal Influence saga rolls on as well. Charlotte Flair and Jacy Jayne went one-on-one Friday in Tulsa, with Jayne picking up the win after interference from Fallon Henley and Lainey Reid. Fatal Influence continued the assault after the match until Rhea Ripley sprinted to the ring for the save. With temporary alliances forged out of necessity, Ripley will join Flair and Alexa Bliss in a six-woman tag team match against Jayne, Henley, and Reid on next week’s show.

And in the most unusual segment WWE has booked in some time, the Gingerbread Man — who was pronounced dead on Friday’s broadcast following Sami Zayn’s vicious attack on the costume — will be honored with a funeral. The angle is being used to build heat for Trick Williams vs. Zayn for the United States Championship at Backlash on May 9.

WWE SmackDown lineup for Friday, May 8:

• Gunther to appear and explain his attack on Cody Rhodes
• WWE Women’s United States Championship: Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Kiana James
• Six-Woman Tag Team Match: Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss vs. Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley & Lainey Reid)
• The Gingerbread Man funeral

SmackDown airs Friday nights at 8 p.m. ET on USA Network in the United States, with Netflix carrying the broadcast in most international markets.