"Randy Orton is one of the all-time greats" - Michael Cole believes Gunther's win at WWE Bash in Berlin proved one important thing
Gunther defeated Randy Orton in a spectacular match to retain his World Heavyweight Championship at the Bash in Berlin 2024 Premium Live Event. The action-packed battle has taken the internet by storm and fans have not stopped talking about it.
Right before the WWE Bash in Berlin post-show, Michael Cole was asked about The Viper when the veteran stated that he is one of the all-time greats. The 55-year-old heaped praise on Randy Orton, stating that the latter has been unbelievable since day one and has dominated the entire industry.
"Randy Orton is one of the all-time greats. I have to say—I have goosebumps right now talking about Randy. I’ve had the opportunity to call most of his matches in his career. He is an unbelievable performer. Since day one, when he arrived on the scene here in WWE, he has dominated. And I thought he would get closer to making history tonight," Michael Cole said. [8:14 - 8:34]
Speaking about Gunther defeating The Legend Killer at Bash in Berlin 2024, Cole stated that The Ring General is the present and the future. He also name-dropped Ric Flair and John Cena, stating that the Austrian star could approach The Nature Boy and The Chain Gang Soldier's record as a 16-time World Champion in the future.
"One thing that Gunther proved is that he was able to handle the emotion and get through a tough week psychologically—not only being here in Berlin, but the fact that he knocked off Randy Orton to continue his reign as World Champion. He is the present, he is the future. He is going to be a champion for a very long time. In 20 years, we may be talking about Gunther as approaching John Cena and Ric Flair as a 16-time World Champion," Michael Cole said. [8:35 - 9:05]
You can watch the video below:
It remains to be seen what challenges The Ring General will have to face as the World Heavyweight Champion down the line.
WWE Superstar CM Punk might be coming after the World Heavyweight Championship
Following his victory over Drew McIntyre at Bash in Berlin 2024, CM Punk stated that he was done with The Scottish Warrior and was now aiming for the gold. The Best in the World added that he wanted to get into the World Heavyweight Championship picture.
With Gunther retaining his title at Bash in Berlin 2024, CM Punk could be the next man to challenge The Ring General for his gold. It would be interesting to see what plans WWE has in store for the Second City Saint next.
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