3 better opponents for Gunther at Bad Blood other than Sami Zayn
Bad Blood is two weeks away, and WWE is yet to confirm Gunther's opponent for the premium live event. If the last few episodes of RAW are any indication, The Ring General will likely defend the World Heavyweight Championship against Sami Zayn.
Zayn has relentlessly pursued a World Title shot only to be turned down by the champion. The former NXT Champion was the man to dethrone Gunther at WrestleMania XL and end his longest Intercontinental Championship reign.
Despite Zayn's undeniable talent and history with The Austrian Anomaly, he might not be the most suitable challenger. Zayn recently lost the Intercontinental Champion and is running short on momentum and credibility.
Secondly, considering he has already beaten Gunther, another win wouldn't accomplish much other than hurting The Ring General's aura. On that note, let's look at three better opponents for The Austrian Anomaly at Bad Blood besides Sami Zayn.
#3. Sheamus would take the World Heavyweight Champion to the limit
When fans think of Gunther's greatest rivals, Sheamus' name will likely dominate the conversation. The Celtic Warrior and The Ring General have unmatchable chemistry in the ring.
Their Intercontinental Title feud in late 2022 was universally praised, with their incredible battle at Clash at the Castle receiving 5-star ratings across the board. In fact, many fans were hoping for Sheamus to end The Austrian Anomaly's record-setting reign.
Fans would not object to another program between the two hard-hitters, especially if Triple H raised the stakes with the World Heavyweight Championship on the line. As a credible veteran with a natural connection with the fan base, Sheamus would be a suitable placeholder challenger for The Ring General.
However, if WWE wants to get extra creative and throw a swerve, they could book Sheamus to dethrone Gunther in a massive upset, beginning a farewell World Title run for the future Hall of Famer.
#2. WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio
While Sami Zayn may be one of the most beloved underdogs of the modern era, Rey Mysterio has made a career out of overcoming the odds and defeating men much stronger than him. Yet WWE has utilized him haphazardly in the last few months.
The Hall of Famer still has a lot to offer in the squared circle and could do more than just lead a mid-card faction like LWO. Considering his credibility and persona, Mysterio would be a fitting contender for the World Heavyweight Championship with a David vs. Goliath-like touch.
Mysterio and Gunther had a stellar Intercontinental Title match on SmackDown in late 2022. However, WWE never booked a full-throttle program between the two talented stars. Therefore, Mysterio would be a fresh challenger for The Ring General. Furthermore, a convincing win over the Hall of Famer would add credibility to Gunther's reign.
#1. Gunther vs. Ilja Dragunov would have the fans on the edge of their seats
When Ilja Dragunov was called up to the main roster, fans immediately began clamoring for a colossal showdown between The Mad Dragon and The Ring General.
Dragunov ended the Austrian's NXT UK Title reign. As two of the most technically proficient and toughest individuals in WWE, their chemistry was palpable. Therefore, a banger under the bright lights of a main roster PLE was certified.
Unfortunately, The Mad Dragon's booking has been lackluster. He has failed to capture many high-profile wins and is yet to compete on the main card of a PLE. Nonetheless, he would have been a great opponent for The Ring General.