WWE fans have argued for years about why WALTER suddenly became Gunther. Now, a new explanation points directly at Vince McMahon.
The name change has remained one of WWE’s most talked-about creative decisions. WALTER had already built a massive reputation under that name before joining WWE, making the switch a controversial one from the start.
Dave Meltzer revealed the reason behind the decision on social media while responding to a fan discussing the name change. According to Meltzer, Vince McMahon believed “WALTER” simply wasn’t the right name for a top villain.
“The reason for the change was Vince. He believed that people might start calling him Wally and that is not a name he wanted for a main event foreign menace heel.”
Despite the backlash when the change first happened, Gunther has gone on to become one of WWE’s biggest stars. He dominated as Intercontinental Champion, captured the World Heavyweight Championship and established himself as one of the company’s top attractions under his new ring name.
Looking back now, many fans have accepted the Gunther name, even if they still prefer WALTER. Either way, Vince McMahon’s reasoning appears to have had nothing to do with wrestling ability and everything to do with protecting the aura of the character.
Do you think Vince McMahon made the right call changing WALTER’s name to Gunther, or should WWE have left it alone? Let us know what you think in the comments.
