Bobby Lashley took advantage of his first title opportunity, defeating JBL on the May 26 SmackDown to claim the United States Championship.

That night, JBL claimed he would take on all comers, and Rey Mysterio brought Lashley out to challenge for the gold. At the end of a quick match, Lashley ducked the Clothesline from Hell, instead spearing the champion to earn the pinfall victory and his first piece of championship gold.