Gunther will take on AJ Styles in an eagerly anticipated match on next week’s Monday Night RAW, following the fallout from his controversial victory over John Cena in their high-profile WWE match. This challenge comes after Gunther’s relentless taunting of Cena and a fiery confrontation with Styles that escalated on the latest episode of RAW, putting the spotlight on their impending clash.
Tensions Erupt After Gunther Defeats John Cena
On this week’s show, Gunther entered the ring and reveled in his stunning win over John Cena at Saturday Night’s Main Event. Gunther made sure to remind both the audience and his rivals that he forced Cena, a 17-time WWE Champion, to submit—an outcome Cena has never promised would happen. The crowd responded with loud disapproval, but Gunther continued his string of taunts, insisting he made Cena
“tap out like a little b*tch”
and refusing to show any remorse.
AJ Styles, often referred to as The Phenomenal, has maintained a close professional bond and deep respect for John Cena through the years. He confronted Gunther during the segment, warning him to stop using disrespectful language about Cena. However, Gunther remained unapologetic, repeating his insults directly to Styles and attempting to justify his actions in the ring.
AJ Styles Strikes Back, Sparking New Rivalry
The situation turned physical after Styles grew frustrated with Gunther’s provocations. In response to Gunther’s repeated mockery, Styles slapped The Ring General across the face, drawing a strong reaction from the crowd. Gunther did not retaliate in the moment, but his reaction left no doubt that hostilities between the two WWE stars had only just begun. Their altercation signals what could become a fierce rivalry in the weeks ahead.
Official Announcement of Styles vs. Gunther Match
Shortly after the heated exchange, WWE RAW General Manager Adam Pearce stepped in to address the situation. Gunther, still seething from Styles’ slap, confronted Pearce backstage and demanded a match against Styles. The Phenomenal AJ Styles followed closely behind, confronting Gunther once more and openly criticizing his conduct during the previous segment. In response to the tension, Adam Pearce confirmed that the match between Gunther and Styles is now officially scheduled for the next episode of Monday Night RAW.
With both WWE superstars primed for confrontation, fans are set to witness what promises to be an intense and unpredictable contest. The outcome of this highly anticipated bout could influence not only the trajectories of Gunther and AJ Styles but also the wider landscape of rivalry and alliance on RAW.
AJ STYLES JUST ABSOLUTELY CLOCKED GUNTHER FOR CALLING JOHN CENA A B*TCH FOR THE 4TH WEEK IN A ROW
GUNTHER GOT HIS CHAIN SNATCHED 💀#WWERaw
— FADE (@FadeAwayMedia) January 6, 2026
