Sami Zayn’s reign as Undisputed WWE Champion has only just begun, but WWE has already announced his first title defense. WWE taped this week’s upcoming SmackDown right after Monday Night RAW, where it was revealed that Zayn will defend the Undisputed WWE Championship on next week’s RAW in Chicago.
The announcement comes just days after Zayn shocked the wrestling world by defeating Cody Rhodes and Gunther in a Triple Threat Match at Night of Champions.
Cody Rhodes earns another shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship
Zayn opened the taped SmackDown in Atlantic City to a huge crowd reaction. But instead of simply celebrating, Zayn had something else to say.
He called out the WWE Universe for turning their backs on him during the difficult months before he won the title. He mentioned the time when his character became more aggressive and unpredictable. During that period, fans had mixed reactions to him. Now that he is champion, Zayn hasn’t forgotten how quickly some fans stopped supporting him.
Before Zayn could finish, Cody Rhodes came out. He congratulated Zayn on becoming Undisputed WWE Champion and looked ready to leave after showing his respect. But Zayn stopped him before he could walk away.
Soon after, Jey Uso joined them in the ring. After hugging Zayn, he said he needed the Undisputed WWE Championship in The Bloodline.
Zayn shut both men down and told both Rhodes and Jey to get to the back of the line and stay away from his title.
Adam Pearce then came to the ring to settle things.
Pearce announced that Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso would face each other later that night on SmackDown. The winner would earn a shot at Sami Zayn and the Undisputed WWE Championship on the July 6 episode of RAW in Chicago.
Rhodes and Uso put on a fast-paced main event. Things became even tougher for Jey after he appeared to hurt his knee midway through the match. In the end, Rhodes hit the Cross Rhodes and scored the pinfall victory.
With the win, The American Nightmare officially became the No. 1 contender to the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Next week’s RAW will feature Sami Zayn’s first title defense against Cody Rhodes.
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