Gunther reportedly gained a tactical edge heading into the bout by choosing the stipulation, banking on the tension between Rhodes and Sami Zayn. Zayn is set to serve as special guest referee, with Gunther wagering that Zayn may turn on Rhodes during the title fight.
Also on the show:
- King of the Ring semifinal matches, with Oba Femi set to learn his tournament finals opponent
- Queen of the Ring semifinal matches, with Iyo Sky set to learn her tournament finals opponent
- WWE tag team championship match: champions Damian Priest and R-Truth vs. Solo Sikoa's MFTs
- United States title qualifier: Carmelo Hayes vs. Ricky Starks, with the winner earning a shot at U.S. champion Trick Williams
The undisputed title bout caps what is being positioned as one of the most loaded SmackDown episodes in recent memory. Coverage of the June 19 show begins at 8 p.m. ET.




