Cody Rhodes beats Gunther after the referee missed a rope break at WWE Clash in Italy

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

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

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Rhodes and Gunther were in the midst of a quick finish to their match. “American Nightmare” hit Gunther with another Cross Rhodes and landed 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.

Angels, however, did not look at Gunther’s leg when he counted on Rhodes. The defending champion held Gunther’s shoulders down for the three count, stunning Gunther. The “Ring General” rolled out of the ring and kept signaling to Engler that his foot was under the rope.

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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, while Gunther walked back up the entrance ramp in a mood. Rhodes remained the champion, making his second title defense since winning the belt from Drew McIntyre earlier this month.

Gunther got the title after defeating Royce Keys two weeks ago. He initially refused to sign the contract for the Clash in Italy until Keys was about to take the chance away from him.

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

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

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It is unclear how long Gunther will have to wait for another shot at the title.