Why Gunther Beat AJ Styles on RAW—And Why This Story Is Far From Over
WWE RAW in Germany delivered wall-to-wall moments, but nothing topped the shocking main event. In a first-ever dream match, Gunther defeated AJ Styles in controversial fashion, leaving fans debating what really went down—and what it means next.
Styles appeared to have the match won after locking in the Calf Crusher, but chaos at ringside meant the referee never saw Gunther tap. Seconds later, the Ring General capitalized, planting Styles with a powerbomb to steal the victory on home soil.
The finish wasn’t random. In fact, it told a much bigger story. Here are the real reasons WWE had Gunther defeat AJ Styles on RAW.
3. AJ Styles Was Never Meant to Fall Clean
Gunther has quietly become WWE’s “career killer.” After forcing John Cena to submit in what turned out to be Cena’s final match, the Ring General drew the attention — and anger — of several locker room veterans. AJ Styles stepped up as the most credible challenger yet.
But WWE was never going to sacrifice Styles’ credibility. With 2026 shaping up as his final year as an active performer, protecting “The Phenomenal One” is a priority. The disputed finish ensured Styles lost without looking weak, keeping him firmly positioned as a top-tier star rather than just another name on Gunther’s hit list.
2. The Finish Made Gunther an Even Bigger Villain
Gunther is already known for his brutal, no-nonsense dominance. This win added something new: resentment. Styles is one of the most respected and beloved figures in wrestling, and fans watched him get robbed in real time.
By having Gunther rely on chaos and underhanded tactics, WWE sharpened his edge as a heel. This wasn’t just about winning — it was about making fans despise him even more. The backlash is intentional, and it only strengthens Gunther’s role as WWE’s top antagonist.
1. WWE Is Clearly Building Toward a Bigger Rematch
If this match was meant to be a one-night spectacle, Gunther would have won clean. Instead, Triple H opted for a finish that practically screams “unfinished business.”
Styles now has a legitimate reason to keep chasing the man who retired John Cena. The controversial ending gives WWE room to stretch this rivalry across multiple shows or even premium live events. History shows WWE loves this formula — and this feels like chapter one, not the conclusion.
Gunther may have won the match in Germany, but AJ Styles didn’t lose the war. With emotions running high and questions still unanswered, this rivalry looks poised to become one of WWE’s most compelling stories of 2026.
