Gunther has been dominating the wrestling scene, recently retiring AJ Styles at this year’s Royal Rumble, marking his third retirement victim in just six months. Amid growing Brock Lesnar retirement rumors, fans expected Gunther to target Lesnar at WrestleMania 42. However, Lesnar’s career still appears far from over, making that scenario unlikely this year.
Instead, the more realistic retirement candidate for Gunther at WrestleMania is Rey Mysterio. Currently signed with WWE on a multi-year contract set to expire near the end of 2026, Mysterio has already enjoyed a celebrated career. It seems he may soon be ready to bow out, with WrestleMania providing an ideal stage for him to end his legendary run.
Why Rey Mysterio Is Likely The Retirement Match for Gunther
A brief confrontation between Gunther and Rey Mysterio took place on RAW last month, sparking speculation about a potential retirement showdown. Given Mysterio’s extensive accomplishments and longtime tenure with WWE, retiring him would add significant prestige to Gunther’s growing list of career-defining moments.
While such a matchup might raise questions regarding storytelling and future booking, it offers clear benefits. Gunther’s recent absence from strong storylines on Monday Night RAW suggests WWE is struggling to maintain his momentum unless he holds a title or is involved in high-profile retirement angles with iconic stars. Retiring Mysterio might be the only viable way to keep Gunther’s career momentum alive heading into WrestleMania.
Adding another legend to his list of defeated veterans would reinforce Gunther’s reputation as the “Career Killer,” a character trait that has served him well. This decision could provide fresh energy for the Austrian star at WWE’s biggest annual event.
Potential for Gunther vs. Brock Lesnar at SummerSlam 2026
Though retirement rumors continue to swirl around Brock Lesnar, WWE has yet to initiate a formal feud between him and Gunther, despite their face-off at the 2023 Royal Rumble. Many fans hope this blockbuster match is saved for SummerSlam 2026, which proves fitting as the event is scheduled for Minneapolis, Lesnar’s hometown.
Speculation suggests Lesnar may choose SummerSlam 2026 for his final WWE match. If so, Gunther is the likely opponent, given Triple H’s familiar booking pattern that favors The Ring General as a retirement adversary. Even if Lesnar doesn’t retire that year, a marquee match against Gunther would satisfy fan demand for a major showdown and maintain interest in the annual summer extravaganza.
With Brock Lesnar’s WWE career nearing its twilight, this anticipated clash could showcase two of the company’s most formidable superstars. A SummerSlam bout between them would offer a dramatic and satisfying chapter for fans who have awaited this confrontation for years.
The Larger Impact on WWE Storylines
The decision to have Gunther retire Rey Mysterio at WrestleMania would not only boost Gunther’s standing but also generate significant narrative weight for WWE moving forward. It addresses immediate storyline needs while setting the stage for future headline matches, such as the potential bout with Brock Lesnar. As WWE strategizes to maximize star power and viewer interest, these events could define the company’s top-tier programming into 2026.
You happy with yourself, @Gunther_AUT??? 🤬 pic.twitter.com/qa7S27oqMs
— WWE (@WWE) February 4, 2026
