Five stars Gunther can face at WWE WrestleMania 42

The ‘Career Killer’ can strike again in Las Vegas.

Despite being away from the title picture, ‘The Ring General’ Gunther has been showcasing his dominance, ending careers of legends, soiling their farewell tours. In 2025, he retired both Goldberg and John Cena, putting both in a brutal submission hold to win.

The Ring General recently defeated AJ Styles in a career-threatening match, forcing Styles into retirement and adding yet another legendary name to his list of victims in less than a year. In the aftermath, Gunther has boldly labeled himself the ‘Career Killer.’

With several legends still active on the WWE main roster, and others weighing retirement, WrestleMania 42 could present the perfect stage for retribution. Here are five WWE stars who could step up to challenge the Ring General, looking to exact payback and put an end to his reign of destruction.

5. Rey Mysterio

During the Royal Rumble fallout show of Raw, AJ Styles’ tag partner, Dragon Lee, tried to attack Gunther, but was mercilessly put to sleep with the patented and devastating sleeper hold.

Rey Mysterio has been teaming up with Lee, who has been a part of LWO (Latino World Order) and considers Rey as his mentor. Rey could confront Gunther about the attack, setting up a showdown for the ‘Grandest Stage.’

Also Read: All matches announced for WWE WrestleMania 42 so far ft. CM Punk vs Roman Reigns & more

4. Sheamus

Another legend in Sheamus could step up to challenge the Ring General for a marquee showdown at WrestleMania. Sheamus has made only sporadic appearances in recent months and has been absent from WWE programming since being pulled from John Cena’s final match tournament in November.

A high-stakes clash against the dominant force who has been systematically retiring legends would not only mark a dramatic return for Sheamus but also give him the chance to defend his legacy and attempt to halt Gunther’s ruthless march as the self-proclaimed Career Killer.

3. Shinsuke Nakamura

Following the storyline between AJ Styles and Gunther, where Styles defended John Cena’s legacy after Gunther repeatedly disrespected him, Shinsuke Nakamura could step up to confront the Ring General next. Having shared a historic rivalry with Styles in both NJPW and WWE, Nakamura carries immense respect for his fellow legend and even faced him in one of Styles’ final matches.

A clash between Nakamura’s in-ring artistry and Gunther’s dominant power would not only teach the Ring General a lesson in respect but also deliver a truly compelling encounter for fans.

2. Randy Orton

Gunther might have earned the nickname ‘Career Killer,’ but Randy Orton has long been known as the ‘Legend Killer.’ Over the years, Orton has left a trail of fallen veterans in his wake, and a clash between these two forces, each with a legacy of taking down legends, would be a dream scenario for fans.

Seeing Gunther’s sheer dominance collide with Orton’s cunning ruthlessness could make for one of WrestleMania 42’s most unforgettable encounters.

1. Brock Lesnar

Multiple reports have hinted at a possible clash between Gunther and Brock Lesnar, who is reportedly planning to hang up his wrestling boots in 2026. Lesnar is one of the biggest and most terrifying names in pro wrestling, and if the Ring General manages to retire a powerhouse such as Brock, it would further elevate his status as ‘Career Killer.’

Furthermore, it would be a compelling matchup stylistically, as it would be difficult for the Ring General to manhandle Lesnar and implement his game plan.

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