Gunther recently shared his admiration for CM Punk ahead of their highly anticipated World Heavyweight Championship match at SummerSlam this Saturday. In a discussion with RadioTimes.com, Gunther explained that the opportunity to face a top-tier talent like Punk at such a major event is a key reason behind his decision to join WWE. He emphasized how special it is to compete on one of wrestling’s biggest stages.
I’m looking forward to getting in the ring with [Punk] on a big stage like SummerSlam in a prominent spot like that,
Gunther said.
That’s why I joined the company, I wanted to be in the ring with the top, top guys and him coming back was a big deal, he’s one of the most unique performers that the business has ever had. That’s what I’m here for. I’m all ready for it and I’m prepared and I’m excited.
—Gunther
Embracing Responsibility and Anticipating the Big Stage
Gunther also noted that he thrives under responsibility and enjoys the pressure that comes with high-profile matches. While he previously competed at WrestleMania alongside Jey Uso, Gunther indicated that his encounter with Punk at SummerSlam carries even more significance and personal excitement.
I’ve always operated better when I’ve had responsibility [placed] on me and that’s the case here. I embrace it and I enjoy it, and SummerSlam is the next big one. I did ‘Mania with Jey [Uso] but I feel like SummerSlam with Punk from an overall perspective is the one that I’m most excited for so far,
he added. —Gunther
CM Punk Values the Opportunity to Compete with Gunther
CM Punk has expressed similar appreciation for the chance to wrestle Gunther, recognizing it as a significant milestone in his current career phase. Speaking on Comicbook Nation’s podcast earlier this month, Punk highlighted how important it is for him to compete with such a skilled and respected opponent.
Just getting able to lace up my boots and lock up with Gunther at this stage in my career is more important to me than anything.
—CM Punk
I’m surrounded every day by such talented people, and I don’t think I have the time to be able to work with all of them, especially at the extent that I want to. So, I’m not trying to do a speedrun and just share a ring with everybody, but Gunther’s at the top of the list of people that I look at as not only the present, they’re definitely the future of the business.
—CM Punk
Past Encounters Between Gunther and Punk Set the Stage
Gunther and CM Punk have shared the ring on multiple occasions prior to SummerSlam. Notably, they headlined a WWE Holiday Tour event at the Allstate Arena in a steel cage match on December 29. Additionally, the two wrestlers met several times during WWE’s European tour in March, providing fans with several intense battles that showcased their chemistry and skill.
Significance of the Match at SummerSlam
The upcoming World Heavyweight Championship match between Gunther and CM Punk represents more than just a title defense or challenge; it symbolizes the collision of two distinct yet highly talented wrestlers at pivotal moments in their careers. Gunther’s acknowledgment of Punk’s unique status in wrestling, combined with Punk’s respect for Gunther’s talent, has built anticipation around this SummerSlam bout. Their previous matches have demonstrated their compatibility and the potential for a memorable showdown that could influence the direction of WWE’s future events.
