Cody Rhodes defeats Gunther after referee misses rope break at WWE Clash in Italy

NEWNow you can listen to Pak Gazette articles!

Controversial officiating is clearly not limited to the NFL or NBA.

The WWE Undisputed Championship match between Cody Rhodes and Gunther on Sunday at Clash in Italy was also affected by a wrong decision by referee Dan Engler.

ZERO BS. ONLY DAKICH. TAKE THE DON’T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW!

Wrestler Cody Rhodes performs during Clash in Italy at the Inalpi Arena in Torino di Sangro, Italy, on May 31, 2026. (WWE)

Rhodes and Gunther were in the middle of a quick finish to their match. “American Nightmare” hit Gunther with a second Cross Rhodes, landing Gunther near the ropes. Rhodes pinned Gunther and the referee began his count. The broadcast showed Gunther’s foot under the ropes, which should have broken the count.

However, Engler wasn’t looking at Gunther’s legs as he counted for Rhodes. The defending champion kept Gunther’s shoulders down for the three count, stunning Gunther. “The Ring General” rolled out of the ring and continued to indicate to Engler that his foot was under the rope.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON PakGazette.Com

A WWE wrestler performs during Clash in Italy at the Inalpi Arena in Torino di Sangro, Italy, on May 31, 2026. (WWE)

Rhodes celebrated with the crowd at the Inalpi Arena in Turin, as Gunther stormed back up the entrance ramp. Rhodes remained the champion, making his second title defense since winning the belt from Drew McIntyre earlier this month.

Gunther earned the title shot after defeating Royce Keys two weeks ago. He initially refused to sign the Clash contract in Italy before Keys was about to take the opportunity.

Gunther has since made it a point to remind Rhodes that he had a habit of making “Friday Night SmackDown” all about him. But now, Gunther has a legitimate complaint about how his title match turned out.