SouthernWorldwide.com – Controversial officiating is not an issue confined to the NFL or NBA, as the recent WWE Undisputed Championship match between Cody Rhodes and Gunther at Clash in Italy was also marred by a questionable call from referee Dan Engler.
The championship bout between Rhodes and Gunther reached a fever pitch as the match neared its conclusion. Rhodes executed a second Cross Rhodes on Gunther, sending “The Ring General” tumbling near the ropes.
Rhodes quickly followed up with a pin attempt. As the referee, Dan Engler, began his count, the broadcast clearly showed Gunther’s foot positioned beneath the ropes. This should have effectively broken the count.
However, Engler’s attention was not focused on Gunther’s feet as he administered the count for Rhodes. The defending champion managed to keep Gunther’s shoulders down for the decisive three-count, much to Gunther’s disbelief.
Following the controversial finish, Gunther exited the ring and repeatedly signaled to Engler, indicating that his foot had indeed been under the ropes. This suggested a clear grievance regarding the referee’s oversight.
Rhodes, meanwhile, celebrated his victory with the enthusiastic crowd at the Inalpi Arena in Turin. This marked Rhodes’ second successful title defense since capturing the championship from Drew McIntyre earlier in the month.
Gunther had earned his opportunity for the Undisputed WWE Championship after defeating Royce Keys two weeks prior. He had initially been reluctant to sign the contract for the Clash in Italy event, only to see the opportunity nearly slip away from him.
Since that encounter, Gunther had made it a point to assert his presence, often reminding Rhodes that he had a tendency to dominate “Friday Night SmackDown” and make it all about himself.
However, the outcome of the Clash in Italy match has now provided Gunther with a substantial and legitimate grievance. The manner in which his championship match concluded has undoubtedly left him with a sense of injustice.
Read more : Quitting Smoking: A Significant Health Benefit Beyond the Lungs and Heart, Study Suggests
The future implications for Gunther’s pursuit of the Undisputed WWE Championship remain uncertain. It is unclear how long he will have to wait for another opportunity to challenge for the title following this contentious defeat.
