BREAKING: Major WWE Authority Figure Officially Steps Down On SmackDown
A top WWE authority figure has relinquished his position on SmackDown in a shocking announcement.
After a successful career as an in-ring competitor outside WWE, Nick Aldis joined the Stamford-based company as a producer before becoming the on-screen SmackDown General Manager.
The former TNA World Champion last wrestled three years ago and has since stepped away from action. However, he is now set to return to the squared circle at SummerSlam when he goes head-to-head against Gunther.
The 39-year-old has been feuding with The Ring General since Night of Champions. After the two got into a physical altercation backstage following the premium live event, they were both sent home by the company.
Following their return, Gunther attacked Aldis on SmackDown after the SmackDown General Manager refused to give him another shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship. The former TNA World Champion got his revenge at Saturday Night’s Main Event, costing The Ring General and Sami Zayn their match against CM Punk and Cody Rhodes.
Aldis and Gunther’s rivalry escalated at the SummerSlam Kickoff Show when they brawled on stage under Triple H’s eyes, forcing police to interfere to separate them. The Game then announced that the two stars would settle their differences in the ring at The Biggest Party of the Summer.
Nick Aldis Relinquishes His WWE Executive Position Ahead Of SummerSlam
Tonight on SmackDown, Nick Aldis and Gunther sat down to sign the contract for their highly anticipated match at SummerSlam. RAW General Manager Adam Pearce informed Aldis that by signing the contract, he would be relinquishing his role as SmackDown General Manager, with Pearce assuming those duties moving forward.
The former TNA World Champion confirmed that he knew what he was signing, noting that he was willing to accept the consequences after Gunther pushed him to his breaking point. He then signed the contract to officially step down as SmackDown General Manager.
"You are jealous of me."@Gunther_AUT is just taunting @RealNickAldis… 😡 pic.twitter.com/J03WqFnhvI
— WWE (@WWE) July 25, 2026
Also read: Massive Brawl Kicks Off WWE SmackDown As SummerSlam Rivalry Heats Up
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