7 Ups & 4 Downs From WWE Raw (2 Sept - Results & Review)

4. Gunther Making Sami Earn It

Fresh off his first successful World Heavyweight Championship title defense, Gunther was bound to have another challenger come out of the proverbial woodwork Monday night.

While he was busy puffing out his chest about defeating Randy Orton, the only man to beat Gunther on the main roster made his way out. Sami Zayn presented his case by noting that plenty of legendary Intercontinental Champions have used the IC title as a stepping stone to capture the world title, including the Ring General. But Zayn’s designs on joining that group were sidelined when Gunther flatly rejected his challenge and left, refusing to take the bait.

Honestly, this was the right call. Sami hasn’t straight-up won a match in two months and lost his last two IC title matches. Being plugged right into a World Heavyweight Championship match would have felt wrong. Zayn though can earn that title match by picking up a couple of wins and leaning on his WrestleMania victory over Gunther to force the Ring General’s hand.

For now though, the chase will suffice. A great champion should have several wrestlers pursuing his title, and Sami is one of the best title-chasers out there.