Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes will defend his title against Gunther and Sami Zayn in a triple threat match at Night of Champions on Saturday, June 27, 2026, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
According to Fox News Digital, Rhodes booked the high-stakes match on "Friday Night SmackDown" after Zayn's officiating as a special guest referee drew heavy criticism during a chaotic bout between Rhodes and Gunther.
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Zayn, who was born in Canada to Syrian parents, stands on the verge of becoming the first WWE world champion of Syrian descent.
"Good," said Zayn when asked how he was feeling.
The challenger expressed immense satisfaction with his current position heading into the premium live event in the Middle East.
"Look, anytime you are main-eventing a big PLE, the fact that Saudi Arabia is always a little special for me just being from this part of the world, obviously.
And the fact that you're main-eventing for a WWE championship.
I don't think there's a better spot to be in, except being the champion, which is the goal here.
But besides from being the champion, it's the best spot you can kind of ask for. I really can't complain," said Zayn.
A victory in Riyadh would carry immense personal, cultural, and historical meaning for the challenger, who reflected on the potential fan reaction.
"I think it's kinda one of those things that would kinda be hard to process. I truly don't know.
