3 Last-minute stipulations that could be added to Cody Rhodes vs. Gunther vs. Sami Zayn for the Undisputed WWE Championship

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That said, in this article, we look at three stipulations Triple H could announce before Cody Rhodes, Gunther, and Sami Zayn collide for the Undisputed WWE Championship.

#3. Triple Threat Elimination Match

Instead of the traditional one-fall format, WWE could announce that the match will be contested under elimination rules. That means that Cody and one of the challengers – either Sami or Gunther – would have to be defeated for a new champion to be crowned, or Cody Rhodes would need to eliminate both men to retain his title.

This format would solve one of the biggest criticisms surrounding triple threat championship matches. Under normal rules, the champion can lose the title without ever being pinned or submitted. An elimination stipulation ensures the eventual winner truly earns the victory. Also, it would create several compelling story possibilities.

Imagine Sami Zayn pinning Gunther after surviving a brutal powerbomb. The Ring General would be eliminated. Thus, leaving Rhodes and Zayn to battle one-on-one for the championship. Perhaps that scenario would allow The Career Killer to remain protected while giving fans the singles showdown they’ve wanted to see.

Alternatively, Cody Rhodes could eliminate Sami first, only to enter the second half of the match exhausted. Gunther would then have the opportunity to systematically dismantle the champion before attempting to claim WWE’s richest prize.

An elimination stipulation would increase the match time naturally while giving every competitor a chance to shine individually.

#2. Falls Count Anywhere Match

While triple threat matches already operate under No Disqualification rules, WWE could take things one step further by making the contest a Falls Count Anywhere Match.

This stipulation would remove the ring as the only place where the match can end. Thus allowing Cody Rhodes, Gunther, and Sami Zayn to battle throughout the entire arena. Pinfalls and submissions could occur on the entrance ramp, backstage, in the crowd, or even near the production area. The change would perfectly complement the personalities of all three competitors.

Gunther could use the arena itself as a weapon. Thus, delivering thunderous powerbombs through tables or onto unforgiving concrete floors. Cody Rhodes has built a reputation for thriving in chaotic, high-pressure environments. Hence, he would undoubtedly embrace the opportunity to fight beyond the confines of the ring. Meanwhile, Sami Zayn’s resourcefulness could come into play as he looks to outsmart two physically imposing opponents by using every inch of the venue to his advantage.

Also, a Falls Count Anywhere stipulation would create unpredictable scenarios. Imagine Gunther laying Cody out near the entrance stage while Sami sneaks in for a surprise pinfall attempt. Or perhaps Rhodes hits Cross Rhodes on Zayn backstage while The Ring General is momentarily incapacitated elsewhere. Thus, leading to a dramatic title retention far away from the live crowd.

Unlike a standard triple threat, which often sees the action return to the ring for the finish, this stipulation would ensure fans remain on edge throughout the match. This is because the deciding fall could happen literally anywhere. It would add another layer of excitement to an already blockbuster Undisputed WWE Championship showdown. Thus, making the bout feel even more unpredictable.

#1. WWE could announce a Last Man Standing Triple Threat Rules

If WWE wants to create a true instant classic, the company could introduce a stipulation fans have rarely seen at the highest level: a Triple Threat Last Man Standing Match.

Instead of scoring a pinfall or submission, the only way to win would be for two of the opponents to remain unable to answer the referee’s ten-count. The beauty of this concept is that it completely changes the strategy.

Pinning Gunther for three seconds is difficult enough. Keeping both The Ring General and Sami Zayn down for the ten count would be an entirely different challenge. The Career Killer’s overwhelming physical dominance would become even more dangerous. This is because every chop, powerbomb, and sleeper hold would carry long-term consequences instead of merely setting up a pinfall.

The match would naturally spill throughout the arena. Fans could expect fights on the entrance ramp, through the crowd, and onto the production area as each superstar searches for increasingly creative ways to incapacitate the other two.

For Cody Rhodes, this stipulation would present perhaps the toughest title defense of his reign. His trademark resilience has helped him overcome impossible odds before. However, surviving two elite challengers under Last Man Standing rules would require an entirely different level of endurance.

Meanwhile, Sami Zayn’s refusal to stay down has become one of his defining characteristics. Watching him repeatedly beat the referee’s count after absorbing unbelievable punishment would only strengthen his underdog image.

As for Gunther, the Austrian powerhouse thrives in wars of attrition. Few competitors in WWE can match his conditioning or physical toughness. Thus, making him arguably the favorite under these circumstances.

A Triple Threat Last Man Standing Match would guarantee drama until the very end while ensuring the eventual winner leaves no doubt about their superiority. More importantly, it would make the Undisputed WWE Championship feel like the ultimate prize in professional wrestling.

With Night of Champions rapidly approaching, WWE may decide to leave the bout untouched. However, if the company wants to make an already blockbuster main event feel even bigger, any of these three stipulations could transform Cody Rhodes vs. Gunther vs. Sami Zayn into one of the most memorable championship matches of 2026.