Gunther Fires Back at Critics Over Facing John Cena in His Retirement Match

In just days, Gunther will step into the ring with John Cena at Saturday Night’s Main Event in what’s being billed as Cena’s final WWE match. But not everyone is thrilled that Gunther was chosen for the spot—including Cena’s own father.

While fans expected an emotional farewell for the 17-time world champion, Gunther made it clear he’s not interested in playing into the nostalgia. When asked directly about critics who say he’s not the right person for Cena’s last match, Gunther didn’t hold back during a conversation with The New York Post. He acknowledged the audience’s hesitation—and admitted he thrived on it.

“Yeah, I don’t really… I don’t know. I’m not bothered. I went out on Raw on Monday to send a few words towards him as like the only chance I had. And I could feel that energy from the audience where it’s kind of like they don’t want me to stand there and claim that for me. But I enjoyed that. I think that’s great. That’s what I’m here for—to antagonize people. And if they are antagonized, which they seem to be, then I succeeded and I thrive off that.”

This match isn’t just a final chapter for Cena—it could be a defining moment for Gunther. While some question whether he deserves it, Gunther isn’t interested in approval. He’s focused on impact, and if he has to ruin a fairytale ending to get it, so be it.

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