Gunther is currently in the midst of a record-breaking reign as the Intercontinental Heavyweight Champion. He has achieved the distinction of being the longest-reigning IC Champion of all time. This remarkable feat has been particularly memorable because he can deliver an instant classic match effortlessly.
Several of his title defenses have earned 5-star ratings from both critics and fans. However, the Intercontinental Championship hasn’t been featured as frequently in Premium Live Events recently. Let’s explore why he won’t be appearing at the Elimination Chamber in Australia.
Reason for Gunther missing Elimination Chamber
Walter Hahn FKA Gunther hails from Austria and has been a part of the WWE Developmental pipeline as he has played a major role in NXT UK, NXT, and now the main roster with RAW. He broke Honky Tonk Man’s record of longest reigning Intercontinental Heavyweight Champion and there’s no end in sight as he has swept everyone who came in his way. His Triple Threat match at WrestleMania 39 was probably the best of the event. All his matches are must-see but he has been missing Premium Live Events outside North America.
Due to strict residence regulations, he’s not allowed to leave the USA for 6 months. This is the reason for him not being on the card of an already stacked Crown Jewel and missing the Elimination Chamber in Australia. But there will likely be a chamber match for the #1 Contendership for the Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship. He’ll also be absent for house shows outside of the US.
Gunther shares personal moment with the fans
Fans haven’t witnessed the emotional side of The Ring General often, as he is deeply dedicated to wrestling. Nevertheless, it was heartwarming to see a picture of him with his family that he posted on Instagram. He seems pretty happy in the picture where he’s with his parents. Gunther also tagged Shinsuke Nakamura in the picture which also means that it was the King of Strong Style who clicked the picture.
WWE has announced a Premium Live Event called Bash in Berlin which will be live from Germany as a part of the Stamford-based company’s expansion across the globe. It would be a fantastic sight to see Gunther perform in front of his friends and family, considering that Austria is just across the border. There’s also a strong possibility that he could main event Bash in Berlin as the World Heavyweight Champion, as it’s high time for The Ring General to contend for the big title.
Who will dethrone Gunther as the Intercontinental Heavyweight Champion? Discuss your possible contenders in the comments.
