Should Cody Rhodes drop WWE title against Gunther at Clash in Italy?

The Ring General targeted the Champion two weeks ago.

‘The Ring General’ Gunther attacked Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes two weeks ago on SmackDown, putting the Champion to sleep. This unprovoked attack was later explained on programming as Paul Heyman revealed the favor Gunther asked of him was a title clash at the upcoming Clash in Italy.

Although WWE has not yet made the match official, it is only a formality for now, as the attack itself was the indication of their clash. Heyman directly mentioning the Clash in Italy PLE makes it clearer that the match is planned for the show. which is a great decision given Gunther’s popularity in his home continent.

While fans await the match announcement and build, let us take a look at whether Cody should drop the title to Gunther this time around and work his way up once again to reclaim it, or even take an extended break until SummerSlam.

Cody Rhodes’ babyface reign risks stagnation

Despite record-breaking performances and lengthy title reigns, Cody Rhodes, who has been the face of WWE, has been receiving some flak from fans. This was very evident around WrestleMania 42 when he feuded with Randy Orton.

Having back-to-back feuds with the likes of Kevin Owens, Drew McIntyre, and, recently, Randy Orton, who are not just established stars but are also universally loved despite playing heels, doesn’t do any favors to Rhodes in front of fans who will get tired of the same outcome.

It is unlikely that WWE will opt to turn Rhodes a heel, a prospect that gets fans excited every time it is hinted at, but WWE will likely not do so, as Rhodes is the face of the promotion. Similar to Cena, Rhodes will continue as a babyface, despite flak from fans as his character gets stale.

A loss might spoil Gunther’s momentum

In this regard, the feud with Gunther will certainly elevate him as ‘The Ring General,’ especially given his back-to-back wins over stars like John Cena and AJ Styles. Having defeated and effectively retired fan-favorite legends, he has become one of the most universally despised figures among fans.

However, Rhodes retaining the title once again will not only be a very predictable ending, but will also hurt Gunther’s momentum, who, despite retiring three massive legends, one literal Greatest of All Time (even recognized by WWE), and yet he has not had a major feud since retiring AJ Styles at the Royal Rumble.

Although the WrestleMania 42 match with Seth Rollins delivered, the in-ring skills of both Gunther and Rollins, the feud was definitely rushed, as Gunther was set to miss the show, with no backup plans in place after Rey Mysterio, the star he was planned to take on at Mania, got injured.

A title win at Clash in Italy will put Gunther back on top and also help Cody’s character, as he will have to battle through adversity to get back on top. A title change will help the SmackDown brand, as a new Champion will create multiple new opportunities and matches.

The Ring General is also an exceptional in-ring performer who can help elevate rising stars on the brand. Unlike Rhodes, his character has no issue with being booed by the crowd; in fact, The Ring General thrives on the boos.

What are your thoughts on the outcome of the teased clash at Clash in Italy? Let us know them in the comments section.

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