Gunther and CM Punk Delight Fans with Heartfelt Moment in Vienna

VIENNA, Austria — WWE World Champion Gunther and challenger CM Punk created an unforgettable moment for fans during their recent encounter at Wiener Stadthalle. Following their intense steel cage match on Saturday, March 29, 2025, Punk praised Gunther and the fans, leading to a surprise moment.

Addressing the crowd, Punk said, “After sharing the ring with ‘The Ring General’ Gunther in a cage, I know I’m never gonna forget Vienna.” He further commended Gunther, stating, “This man is a champion for a reason. He represents championship-caliber people—hardworking, blue-collar, salt-of-the-earth Vienna pride. Congratulations, champ.”

After sharing a handshake, Gunther entertained the audience by singing a traditional Austrian folk song, which left fans cheering and concluded the night on a high note.

For Gunther, the match held significant importance, especially as it took place in his home country. Adorned in an Austria national football team jersey, he embraced the support of his fans, even climbing to the top of the cage to wave the country’s flag. Gunther received a hero’s welcome as the match began.

Although Punk attempted to play the villain by teasing the audience with antics, including wiping his sweat with the Austrian flag, both men showcased their athleticism and resilience in an intensely competitive match. Punk’s quick thinking led to a stunning Russian Leg Sweep off the top rope, but it was Gunther’s relentless strength that ultimately secured him a victory.

As the match entered its final moments, Punk made an unusual decision to climb out of the cage rather than pin Gunther. In an exchange of strikes, Gunther’s powerful chops ultimately brought Punk back down, preventing him from escaping. As Gunther made his way to the floor, he kicked the cage door into Punk’s face, sealing his win.

Despite the loss, Punk’s performance reaffirmed his status as a formidable opponent. “I will see you down the line,” he reiterated to Gunther after the match.

This bout marked Punk’s third consecutive singles match loss against Gunther, highlighting the challenges he faces from top-tier talent in WWE. The stakes, however, remain high as Punk attempts to leverage any future opportunities as WrestleMania approaches.

In the following days, Punk took to social media to express his gratitude toward fans during WWE’s European tour. “Thank you Bologna, Belfast, Nottingham, Glasgow, London, Vienna. Thank you Amsterdam,” he wrote. His emotional message resonated with fans, especially after receiving warm welcomes in several cities.

Punk’s finals bouts in Europe saw him earn significant cheers as he wrestled in front of enthralled audiences, culminating in the electrifying experience of his match with Gunther in Vienna.

As the WWE Road to WrestleMania returns to the United States, anticipation builds for Punk’s upcoming appearance in his hometown of Chicago.