A potential blockbuster World Heavyweight Championship match between Gunther and Randy Orton at SummerSlam has been forecasted by former WWE writer Freddie Prinze Jr. The prediction comes as both men navigate crucial, high-stakes scenarios on their respective brands.
Orton is currently advancing through the King of the Ring tournament, securing his spot in the final by defeating Sami Zayn on the June 20 episode of SmackDown. He is now set to face his long-time friend Cody Rhodes at Night of Champions on June 28. Speaking on his Wrestling with Freddie podcast, Prinze Jr. suggested an Orton victory is designed to fuel a larger narrative.
I don’t think Cody can win the entire tournament. I think they’re gonna lead themselves to a Randy Orton victor and get him closer to his story of 15, I believe it would be, World Championships, so that would be him versus Gunther.
Before any potential clash with Orton, Gunther faces an immediate and significant challenge. On the June 16 edition of WWE RAW, Goldberg made a surprise return to confront the champion, setting up a title defense that will also serve as the Hall of Famer’s retirement match. Their encounter is scheduled for Saturday Night’s Main Event on July 12. The animosity between them dates back to the Bad Blood event in 2024, where Gunther disrespected Goldberg and his son.
Gunther’s current championship reign, his second, began on the June 9 episode of WWE RAW when he defeated Jey Uso by technical submission. This victory allowed him to reclaim the title he had lost to Uso at WrestleMania 41, ending his first reign at 259 days and re-establishing his dominance atop the roster.
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