Gunther has officially retired two of WWE’s biggest names, John Cena and AJ Styles, solidifying his status as a top contender by requesting fresh opponents in the company. He defeated Cena on December 13, 2025, forcing the 17-time World Champion to submit in what was Cena’s final match. Shortly after, Gunther ended AJ Styles’ legendary career at the Royal Rumble 2026 Premium Live Event.
Following these victories, Gunther posted a message on Instagram challenging WWE to set up new adversaries for him, while continuing his current feud with Dragon Lee. He is also competing to qualify for the Men’s Elimination Chamber Match, a crucial step on his path toward the Elimination Chamber 2026.
“Line them up.” Gunther
Calls to Face Brock Lesnar at WWE SummerSlam
Bubba Ray Dudley has voiced his opinion on Gunther’s next major target, suggesting that Brock Lesnar should be the next superstar to be retired by Gunther. Dudley proposed that WWE bring Lesnar back for a high-profile match at SummerSlam, aiming to elevate Gunther’s legacy by having him end Lesnar’s career in Minnesota, Lesnar’s home state.
“Look at what is on the table for Gunther in the next six months. The potential. Let’s look at the short term to get Gunther to where we ultimately want him in the long term. Retire AJ at the Rumble, bring back Brock, retire Brock at SummerSlam in his home of Minnesota. You have now done everything that you could possibly do to make Gunther a monster who can be next level credible World Heavyweight Champion in the future,” Bubba Ray Dudley
Lesnar is scheduled to appear on next week’s episode of Monday Night RAW, which will also feature Gunther in a Triple Threat Match against Je’von Evans and Dominik Mysterio. The winner of this match will earn a spot in the Men’s Elimination Chamber Match, increasing the stakes for all competitors involved.
Upcoming Opportunities and Uncertain Plans
Although Gunther’s next feud is still undecided, his victories over prominent wrestlers such as Cena and Styles have firmly established him as a dominant force within WWE. His future plans, including possible appearances at WrestleMania, have yet to be disclosed. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see who WWE will position as Gunther’s next challengers in his pursuit of becoming the World Heavyweight Champion once again.
