In a dramatic twist more intense than a soap opera reveal, Cody Rhodes and Logan Paul hyped up a title vs. title clash at WWE King and Queen of the Ring, only for Paul to yank the United States Championship out of the equation like a magician pulling a disappearing act. During the contract signing on the May 17 edition of “WWE SmackDown,” Paul’s refusal to put his belt on the line sparked confusion among fans and left many wondering if this match was ever more than a glittery mirage.
According to wrestling guru Dave Meltzer of “Wrestling Observer Radio,” the title vs. title showdown was merely a bait-and-switch tactic to stoke the flames of fan frustration. The United States Champion, pulling off a villain move worthy of a Hollywood blockbuster, declared that the bout would only be for Rhodes’ Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. Paul even threatened to lawyer up if anyone dared try to snatch his title for the fight.
Initially, Rhodes threw his hat in the ring to grab the United States Championship and add “WWE Grand Slam Champion” to his resume. But unless there’s a last-minute plot twist on this week’s “SmackDown,” it looks like Rhodes’ dream will have to wait longer than a commercial break.
Title or no title, Rhodes and Paul are set to lock horns in Saudi Arabia this weekend. The event promises a smorgasbord of wrestling action: Gunther will duke it out with the “SmackDown” bracket winner for the King of the Ring crown, while Lyra Valkyria faces off against either Nia Jax or Bianca Belair for the Queen title. Sami Zayn is slated to defend the Intercontinental Championship against Chad Gable and Bronson Reed, and Liv Morgan will challenge Becky Lynch for the Women’s World Championship. Get your popcorn ready—this is one show you won’t want to miss!