Gunther was promoted to WWE’s main roster in 2022, having already made a significant impact with a dominant and memorable career in NXT and NXT UK where he wrestled under the name Walter. While his time on Raw and SmackDown has its pros and cons, comparisons reveal that some aspects of his current run have improved, while others have declined.
Better: Gunther is a Bigger Star Today
Gunther is now more widely recognized than when he was known as Walter in NXT. Any wrestler who joins WWE’s main roster gains immediate exposure and stardom, and Gunther has thrived in this spotlight, becoming one of WWE’s top talents today.
Worse: Gunther Was Once the Face of a Brand
Though he is more famous now, Gunther is not the leading star on Raw or SmackDown. Unlike in NXT UK, where he was the central figure and the brand revolved around him, he has never been the number one heel on the main roster and likely won’t carry the entire brand.
Better: Gunther’s Physical Condition Has Improved
Gunther was much larger during his NXT days but has since slimmed down significantly and is in exceptional shape, enhancing his performance and appeal on the main roster.
Worse: His World Heavyweight Title Reign Was Underwhelming
His reign as NXT UK Champion was strong and dominant, but his time as World Heavyweight Champion on the main roster has been less impressive, with some booking decisions making him appear weaker.
Better: Breaking Main Roster Records
Gunther has set notable records, including the longest reign as Intercontinental Champion and the longest time spent in a men’s Royal Rumble match, achievements that cement his place in WWE history.
Worse: No Feud Matches the Quality of His Ilja Dragunov Rivalry
One of the best rivalries of his career was with Ilja Dragunov in NXT UK, known for its intensity and chemistry. On the main roster, however, Gunther hasn’t had a feud of comparable significance.
Better: Wrestling on Larger Stages
Gunther now competes in front of larger audiences in massive arenas, including multiple WrestleMania events, showcasing his talent on a grander scale than in NXT.
Worse: Changes to Entrance Music
Fans miss Gunther’s original NXT theme, a classical piece by Dvorak, which gave his entrance a unique and impactful atmosphere. His current WWE entrance music, while decent, doesn’t evoke the same feeling.
Better: Improved Mic Skills
Gunther has developed his microphone work since joining the main roster, enhancing his charisma and ability to engage the audience, making him one of WWE’s stronger promo talents.
Worse: No More Imperium or Sacred Mat Gimmick
Gunther’s distinctive Imperium faction and his dedication to preserving the "sacred mat" of wrestling were key parts of his NXT persona but have been largely dropped in WWE’s focus on sports entertainment. While he excels solo, many feel the Imperium group added a unique dynamic.
Fan Take: Gunther’s evolution highlights both the potential and challenges of transitioning from NXT to WWE’s main roster. WWE fans should watch closely as Gunther continues to grow, because his path could redefine what it means to be a top star in the modern wrestling landscape.
