Why Gunther Refuses To Chop WWE Fans

The Knife Edge Chop from Gunther has become one of the most feared strikes in professional wrestling, earning praise from opponents and fans alike. Even Cody Rhodes has described it as the defining chop in wrestling today. But despite the move’s popularity and frequent requests from fans, Gunther refuses to deliver it outside the ring.

During an appearance on the What Do You Want To Talk About? podcast, Gunther spoke with Cody Rhodes about the discipline behind his in-ring style and the boundaries he keeps between performance and fan interaction. When the conversation shifted to fans asking him to chop them during appearances or events, the Ring General made his stance clear.

“I never do it. Because I am a professional. They are not.”

Gunther explained that allowing the move to become a novelty or party trick would undermine the training and discipline required to perform at the highest level in professional wrestling. For him, the chop represents years of physical preparation and dedication to the craft.

“I think you’ve got to draw a line there. I’m not gonna bust my ass in training and all of that for so many years to learn it right, just to goof around with the fans afterwards. It just feels wrong.”

The former world champion also criticized a trend seen at independent wrestling shows where fans pay wrestlers to receive a chop during meet-and-greet sessions or special appearances. Gunther views that practice as diminishing the seriousness of the sport and turning a legitimate in-ring weapon into something closer to a gimmick.

For Gunther, the chop is meant to be used inside the ropes against trained competitors in pursuit of championships—not as a paid attraction for spectators. The philosophy fits perfectly with the no-nonsense reputation he has built throughout his career as the Ring General.

Gunther’s stance shows just how seriously he takes the presentation of his character and the discipline behind his style. While fans may continue to ask for the famous chop, it sounds like the only place they’ll see it land is inside a wrestling ring.

Do you agree with Gunther’s stance on refusing to chop fans, or do you think it would just be harmless fun at fan events? Share your thoughts and let us know what you think.