Gunther Throws Sarcastic Shade at AJ Styles While Teasing Potential WWE Match

John Cena may have wrapped up his legendary career in dramatic fashion, but Gunther clearly isn’t slowing down — and he’s not pulling punches either.

After defeating John Cena via submission at Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13th, 2025, Gunther spoke with The Ringer Wrestling Show to reflect on the monumental match and address who might be next on his radar. When asked whether AJ Styles could be the next WWE legend to hang it up after facing him, Gunther delivered a quote that already has fans talking. He didn’t confirm anything directly — but he couldn’t help slipping in a jab at The Phenomenal One’s past in TNA.

“I don’t really have a list but yeah, AJ, I’ve never wrestled AJ before. I think it would be a great one. AJ is definitely one of the best cruiserweight wrestlers in TNA history. We shall see.”

Calling AJ Styles a “cruiserweight” might not sit well with some longtime fans, especially given Styles’ accomplishments across multiple promotions. But for Gunther, it appears to be more of a smirking challenge than outright disrespect.

He also addressed Michael Cole’s polarizing line during the SNME broadcast, where Cole stated that “professional wrestling destroyed sports entertainment” — a bold statement meant to frame the contrast between Cena and Gunther’s in-ring styles. Gunther offered his perspective on the divide between wrestling and entertainment, pointing out that he’s well aware of the need for both.

“It was a good line to put up because I think John and I are very very different as wrestlers, so I think it was a good headline for that. I wouldn’t say it’s my number one mission because once you get in the ring with me or once I get time to get out there and do what I do, I think it kind of speaks for itself, the dynamic with most of my opponents.”

He continued by explaining that the contrast with more character-driven stars actually helps elevate his performances.

“I feel like it’s a good contrast with everybody because I’m not out here to — it’s part of our business, the more entertainment side. It’s important for our business. I need those guys, I need guys like John or Jey Uso, people with a really deep connection to the audience because if they are not around there’s no party to ruin for me. It would be less exciting so I’m glad they are around.”

Whether Gunther is angling for a dream match with AJ Styles or just stirring the pot, one thing is clear — he sees himself as the hammer to WWE’s more polished nails. After sending John Cena packing, fans can only imagine what a showdown with Styles might look like.

Do you think Gunther is trying to bait AJ Styles into one final showdown — or was it just a sarcastic shot at Styles’ TNA roots? Drop your thoughts below and let us know how you’d book the dream match.