Summary

WWE added several follow-ups for the May 8 episode of SmackDown after Friday night's developments, with Gunther now scheduled to appear one week after attacking Cody Rhodes from behind.

That angle came after Rhodes retained the Undisputed WWE Championship against Ricky Saints on the May 1 show. Gunther's appearance gives SmackDown an immediate next step after the announced lineup for the May 1 episode turned into a much more eventful night by show's end.

WWE also made Tiffany Stratton vs. Kiana James official for the Women's United States Championship. The match was set after Kiana pushed for Giulia to receive a rematch, only for Stratton to offer James the title shot instead.

Updated card for May 8 SmackDown

Along with Gunther's appearance and the Women's United States Title match, WWE confirmed a six-woman tag team match for next week's show. Rhea Ripley will team with Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss against Fatal Influence, represented by Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, and Lainey Reid.

That bout follows interference in Flair's match with Jayne on Friday, then a post-match attack that brought Ripley out for the save.

WWE also announced that The Gingerbread Man's funeral will take place on the show after Sami Zayn destroyed the character during the May 1 episode.

What Gunther and Tiffany Stratton add to next week's show

Gunther being booked to speak so quickly after laying out Rhodes strongly suggests WWE is moving that confrontation to the front of the SmackDown title picture. Even without a match announcement yet, the segment gives the show a clear hook around the Undisputed WWE Championship scene.

Stratton defending against James also gives the episode a second meaningful stakes match, especially with Giulia's rematch issue now hanging over the division. If James can capitalize on the opportunity Stratton handed her, the Women's United States title conversation could shift quickly.

Sources

As reported by Fightful.