WWE Backlash: Pat McAfee drops marathon match to Gunther in wild fashion despite Michael Cole interference
For the first time in a while, Pat McAfee was back in the ring at WWE Backlash 2025. McAfee is usually watching from the side these days as a broadcaster. However, there was something to settle against Gunther in an anticipated matchup between the two from St. Louis.
McAfee entered the ring as a big-time underdog and things went exactly how everyone expected them to. Gunther was a big-time winner and dominated throughout. The referee had to call things off after Gunther had McAfee in a headlock.
McAfee and Gunther have been going back and forth for just over a month now, going back to Raw after WrestleMania. Gunther was originally going after another broadcaster, Michael Cole. However, McAfee stepped in for Cole and decided to take on Gunther.
Once the match was underway, Cole attempted to interfere while pleading with Gunther to end things. He was pulled into the ring and in trouble before McAfee landed a kick on Gunther. Cole was able to escape and get back outside of the ring. You can check the full moment here.
As soon as the bell rang, medical attention was provided to McAfee. Eventually, the usual commentator, turned-fighter, got back on his feet before Gunther walked out of the ring. The broadcast described the move as a “rare sign of respect” following the match.
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Pat McAfee drops match to Gunther after previously exchanging words
Last Saturday saw McAfee and Gunther came face-to-face, where words were exchanged. McAfee was first up and played into the underdog role while maintaining confidence.
“You don’t want it anymore,” McAfee said. “You’ve gotten too damn comfortable. It happened with Sami Zayn, it happened with Jey Uso, and on Saturday, you’re going to overlook me. You’re going to underestimate me. And I’m going to prove to you and all these people that this version of Gunther is soft.”
“Did you enjoy your little daughter’s birthday last week?” Gunther responded. “Two years, right? It’s cute. I bet it was a very special day for you. Because, for me, Saturday is a very special day. And you just got me into the right mood for it as it’s my first match since Wrestlemania and I’m going to show up sharp, I’m going to show up prepared. I’m going to show up more focused than ever before. Don’t you worry that I will overlook you, don’t you worry that I’ll overestimate you. I promise you my full and undivided attention because of Saturday, that bell is going to ring and I’m going to beat you up, going to maul you… I’m going to choke you out until you drop like a wet towel.”