Gunther Admits He Was Impressed By Nick Aldis’ Performance at WWE SummerSlam; Sends a Message to the SmackDown GM

Former World Heavyweight Champion Gunther defeated Nick Aldis in a grudge match at WWE SummerSlam: Minnesota Night One. However, it wasn’t an easy ride for The Ring General, as Aldis brought the fight to the Austrian and pushed him to the limits.

However, Gunther ultimately forced Aldis to tap out to his trademark Sleeper Hold. Speaking to the panel at the SummerSlam 2026 Post Show, Gunther acknowledged Aldis’ performance, admitting that the SmackDown GM proved harder to dislodge than he had expected.

As noted, Triple H reinstated Aldis as SmackDown GM at the post-show. Gunther reacted to the development, sending a message to his archrival and also admitting that beating Aldis in front of his family made the feat more enjoyable. Below are the highlights:

Gunther Praised Nick Aldis

“Well, after everything said and done tonight, it was harder for me than I expected. When he took his jacket off in the ring, I was impressed; I admit that. But at the end of the day, he was in the ring with me. Like, who expected a fairytale ending here? It’s a bit naive.”

On Nick Aldis Being Reinstated as WWE SmackDown GM

“I have one thing to say to Nick. Get back to your job; make me the number one contender because I’m not afraid of CM Punk because I know that I’m better than him.”

On Whether Beating Nick Aldis In Front of His Family Made the Moment Sweeter

“Of course. If I can rub it in a little bit more, that’s always the best scenario. I mean, it’s kind of like his fault. He brought his family here today.”

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