One Big Thing
GUNTHER, the former WWE Intercontinental Champion, openly endorsed Sami Zayn as the right choice to end his historic 666-day title reign during WrestleMania 40, attributing Zayn’s victory to his unique connection with the fans and relatable character.
Key Moments
- GUNTHER’s reign as Intercontinental Champion was broken by Sami Zayn at WrestleMania 40.
- Post-title loss, GUNTHER named Zayn and Chad Gable as worthy successors but ultimately lauded Zayn’s victory.
- The “Ring General” praised Zayn’s natural rapport with the audience and his everyman persona.
- Despite his defeat, GUNTHER is focused on winning the King of the Ring tournament next.
Why It Matters
The end of GUNTHER’s impressive championship run not only marks a significant moment in WWE history but also shines a spotlight on Sami Zayn’s evolution as a performer and his deep connection with the wrestling fanbase. GUNTHER’s respect for Zayn underscores the importance of character and fan engagement in professional wrestling, beyond just physical prowess or technical skill.
Direct Quotes
“I don’t think there was that one right person, I think there would have been a few options,” GUNTHER reflected on Zayn’s win during his interview with “Gorilla Position.” “He’s [an] absolutely fantastic professional wrestler, he has the natural connection with the audience…I think yeah, it’s just naturally the personality that he is.”
Looking Ahead
As GUNTHER sets his sights on new goals, the wrestling community watches closely to see how his career evolves post-Intercontinental Championship. His praise for Zayn adds an interesting layer to the dynamic world of WWE storylines, where personal respect and professional rivalry often intertwine.
Please credit “Gorilla Position” when using quotes from this article, and give a H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.
What are your thoughts on GUNTHER’s perspective on Sami Zayn’s championship win? Do you agree that Zayn’s connection with the fans played a pivotal role in his victory? Leave a comment below.