Real Reason Undisputed WWE Title Match Opened SmackDown, Vini Jr.’s Brazil Involved

Cody Rhodes’ Undisputed WWE Championship match against Gunther unexpectedly kicked off tonight’s SmackDown, possibly for a reason unrelated to WWE.

The American Nightmare and The Ring General were scheduled to clash on tonight’s episode of the blue brand, with Sami Zayn serving as the special guest referee. While many expected the match to headline the show, it surprisingly opened it instead.

Why Triple H chose to book the Undisputed WWE Championship match as the opener seemingly had to do with Brazil’s Group C clash against Haiti at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which was scheduled to begin just 30 minutes after SmackDown went on the air.

The five-time World Cup winners are arguably the most popular national team in the world, boasting stars like Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. and Barcelona’s Raphinha. To maximize viewership for the Undisputed WWE Title match, Triple H may have opted to place it as the start of the show rather than in the main event slot, possibly anticipating that many football (soccer) fans would switch over to the World Cup once the match began.

Coincidentally, the title match ended just as Brazil and Haiti hit the field. Although it was restarted a few minutes later, it ended briefly following interference from Sami Zayn.

Cody Rhodes Will Defend His Undisputed WWE Championship At Night Of Champions

The American Nightmare and Gunther have been feuding for several weeks on SmackDown. Sami Zayn has also inserted himself in the storyline, expressing his desire to fight for the Undisputed WWE Championship.

Tonight on SmackDown, Zayn’s interference cost Gunther his opportunity to capture the title not once, but twice. The Last Good Guy also knocked out Rhodes with the Undisputed WWE Championship belt.

Following the controversial finish to the title match, Cody Rhodes will now put his championship on the line against both Gunther and Zayn at Night of Champions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

A Triple Threat Match at Night of Champions for the Undisputed WWE Title!! 🤯

THIS IS GETTING GOOD! pic.twitter.com/GsIXKiNLVZ

— WWE (@WWE) June 20, 2026

Also read: SmackDown Star Receives Final Threat From Roman Reigns, Controversial Act Follows

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