The Gingerbread Man Storyline on WWE SmackDown Reportedly Recieved Internal Creative Pushback

Sami Zayn and WWE United States Champion Trick Williams’ storyline feud in recent weeks of WWE SmackDown shows have involved a Gingerbread Man character.

This Gingerbread Man character was first introduced by Williams and Lil Yachty following Williams victory over Zayn for the WWE United States title at WrestleMania 42. This Gingerbread Man storyline took a “dark” turn on the May 1st episode of WWE SmackDown following Zayn giving a promo in the ring that ended with him destroying and “murdering” the Gingerbread Man costume. Zayn’s attack led to Williams demanding revenge as the setup for their rematch at this Saturday’s Backlash 2026 event. As part of the on-going storyline, Williams will be holding a “funeral” for the Gingerbread Man on the May 8th episode of WWE SmackDown.

.@SamiZayn has ginger-SNAPPED! pic.twitter.com/BHWCqt5SAn

— WWE (@WWE) May 2, 2026

WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select reported that their sources stated that there were several members of WWE creative who had pushed against the use of the Gingerbread Man gimmick on SmackDown. One source spoken to reportedly described the gimmick as being “hokey and archaic.”

It was reported that there was significant pushback from creative members in regards to the direction of the storyline as it was being discussed within WWE.