Gunther Dominates Pat McAfee at WWE Backlash But Grants Rare Show of Respect Post-Match

Gunther defeated Pat McAfee at WWE Backlash, maintaining his dominant streak with a decisive victory via a rear-naked choke.
Post-match, Gunther showed rare respect to McAfee, allowing him to acknowledge the crowd—a departure from his usual ruthless persona.
McAfee’s resilient performance, including a near-fall assisted by Michael Cole, earned Gunther’s admiration despite the loss, while Gunther solidified his status as a top WWE competitor.

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Gunther maintained his dominant streak at Backlash with a decisive victory over Pat McAfee, though the brash commentator earned something rarer than a win – the Austrian’s respect. The former World Heavyweight Champion systematically dismantled McAfee in a match that saw Raw announcer Michael Cole nearly become collateral damage before McAfee ultimately succumbed to a vicious rear-naked choke.

In an uncharacteristic display of sportsmanship, Gunther extended a respectful gesture to his fallen opponent post-match, allowing McAfee to bask in the St. Louis crowd’s appreciation. The moment marked a departure from Gunther’s usual ruthless persona, suggesting McAfee’s gutsy performance – including a near-fall assisted by Cole – had impressed the imperious European star.

The bout fulfilled McAfee’s challenge stemming from weeks of on-air tension, proving even in defeat that the sports personality could hang with WWE’s most destructive in-ring forces. Gunther’s victory further cements his status as one of WWE’s most dominant competitors as he eyes championship contention.