Sami Zayn has spent most of his WWE career as one of the company’s most beloved babyfaces. However, Night of Champions 2026 could change everything.

The upcoming premium live event will feature Cody Rhodes defending the Undisputed WWE Championship against both Gunther and Sami Zayn in a Triple Threat Match. The bout was made official after weeks of controversy involving Zayn’s role in the rivalry between Rhodes and The Ring General.

Recent episodes of SmackDown have already shown signs of Sami becoming increasingly frustrated and emotionally unstable, which could be the perfect foundation for a long-awaited heel turn. While many fans expect Cody to retain his championship in Saudi Arabia, the real story may begin after the final bell.

A possible scenario could see Rhodes survive the Triple Threat Match by perhaps pinning Gunther. Thus, preventing Zayn from taking the fall. On paper, that outcome would protect The Underdog from the Underground while keeping the championship on The American Nightmare heading into SummerSlam season.

Unfortunately for Sami Zayn, being protected might not be enough anymore. The former United States Champion has spent years coming close to the top of the mountain only to watch someone else celebrate. Thus, losing another opportunity to become a world champion could finally push him over the edge.

After the match, The American Nightmare might attempt to show respect by helping his longtime friend to his feet or offering a handshake. That would be the perfect moment for disaster.

Instead of accepting the gesture, Sami could blast Cody Rhodes with a Helluva Kick that leaves the WWE Universe stunned. The attack would instantly complete his transformation from fan favorite to bitter heel. Also, it would allow him to blame Cody for every missed opportunity. Thus, claiming that Rhodes has always been the chosen star, while he has been forced to fight for scraps.

The story practically writes itself. Sami Zayn could spend the following weeks insisting that Cody Rhodes stole his moment at Night of Champions. He might argue that he never received a fair chance and that management has always treated Rhodes differently. The bitterness and jealousy would give his character a fresh direction. Thus, allowing him to deliver some of the best promo work of his career.

More importantly, it would create a major attraction for WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event XLV on July 18. Rather than moving into another prolonged championship program, Cody could immediately agree to put his title on the line against Sami at the upcoming event. The rivalry would be fueled by years of friendship and mutual respect that turned into jealousy, leading to the shocking betrayal in Saudi Arabia.

Also, a heel Sami Zayn would provide WWE with something it currently lacks on SmackDown: a top-level villain who isn’t focused solely on championship gold. His motivation would be deeply personal. Thus, making the feud feel more authentic than a standard title program.

Triple H has never been afraid to pull the trigger on major character changes when the timing is right. With Sami already showing signs of frustration and Cody firmly established as one of WWE’s biggest babyfaces, Night of Champions may be the ideal stage for such a transformation.

If the company wants a blockbuster main-event caliber match for Saturday Night’s Main Event XLV, turning Sami Zayn heel after Cody Rhodes retains the Undisputed WWE Championship could be the perfect way to make it happen.

While this angle may seem improbable, it is not entirely impossible. Fans will have to wait until Night of Champions to see if this comes to fruition.

Sami Zayn could dethrone Cody Rhodes at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event XLV

If the above scenario eventually materializes, Sami Zayn could shock the WWE Universe at Saturday Night’s Main Event XLV by dethroning Cody Rhodes and capturing the Undisputed WWE Championship.

After months of frustration, Zayn’s growing resentment could finally boil over. Thus, turning him into a dangerous, desperate challenger. Cody would enter as the favorite. However, Sami’s intensity, unpredictability, and emotional edge could make the difference in a high-stakes main event.

A victory would not only end Rhodes’ reign but also redefine Sami Zayn’s career. Thus, transforming him from perennial underdog into the company’s newest top villain. It would be a stunning, headline-making moment for WWE and launch a new era. However, this is also speculative.