Former WWE Champion to demand a Retirement match against Gunther at WrestleMania? Exploring the possibility

The Ring General Gunther has had quite a legendary run in WWE this year. The star’s massive year kicked off with a run as the World Heavyweight Champion, which went on to become much better when he retired WWE Hall of Famer, Goldberg, at Saturday Night’s Main Event.

After taking a break following his loss at SummerSlam 2025, the star returned to become a part of the Last Time Is Now tournament and went on to become John Cena’s final opponent. While this was big enough for him to become one of the biggest names in the company, the Ring General went on to make Cena tap out in his final match, making headlines all around the world.

This week’s episode of RAW kicked off with Gunther soaking up all the heel heat he could, showing off against the fans who had been cheering for John Cena at Saturday Night’s Main Event. However, right when he was about to leave the arena, the Ring General came face-to-face with AJ Styles.

The latter has already announced that 2026 would be the year he marks his retirement, and WrestleMania could be the perfect stage for it. The Phenomenal One, following the face-off, teased that he wanted to get a piece of the former World Champion before his retirement. Considering the recent run of the ‘Certified Career Killer’, Styles could demand a retirement match against Gunther at the Grandest Stage of Them All, to test if he could do what John Cena and Goldberg couldn’t. Time will tell what WWE has in store for the star next.

What’s next for Gunther on WWE RAW?

The Ring General, following his victory against John Cena, is clearly at the top of his career and could go after the World Heavyweight Champion once again. Gunther could make his presence felt in the World title match on the first RAW of 2026 between CM Punk and Bron Breakker.

If not the World title, Gunther could also kick off a major feud against the likes of Rey Mysterio or Sheamus, to enhance his run as a heel and further strengthen his position on the top. Time will tell what WWE has in store for the star next.

Read all the hottest WWE news from Sportskeeda by choosing us as your preferred source. Click HERE.

Edited by Ishaan Rathi