Gunther is the longest-reigning intercontinental champion in WWE historical past, breaking a file that stood for 35 years. Gunther formally surpassed Honky Tonk Man on Friday.
Gunther efficiently defended the intercontinental title towards Chad Gable on Monday Evening Uncooked, clearing the ultimate hurdle between him and the file. He has now held the intercontinental championship for 455 days and can prolong that file at the least via the week.
The Austrian celebrity describes the skilled wrestling ring as a “sacred mat” and has rejuvenated the intercontinental championship with such status. Gunther has delivered a number of show-stealing performances since defeating Ricochet for the title on June 10, 2022. His triple menace match towards Drew McIntyre and Sheamus at WrestleMania 39 is thought-about among the finest in WrestleMania’s lengthy historical past.
Honky Tonk Man’s standing because the intercontinental king all the time bordered absurdity. The Elvis impersonator was a comedy character via and thru, but he lorded over a title usually awarded to technically gifted wrestlers and people on the verge of primary occasions. Curiously, each Gunther and Honky Tonk Man every have only one stint as an intercontinental champion.
Gunther can also be the longest-reigning NXT United Kingdom champion, a belt he carried for 870 days throughout his sole reign.