Gunther defeats Pat McAfee at WWE Backlash

Originally posted on F4WOnline.com | By Bryan Rose | Last updated May 10, 2025 9:48 PM ET

Pat McAfee gave it his all, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Gunther.

The Ring General submitted McAfee at WWE Backlash with a rear naked choke. McAfee for most of the match took a beating from Gunther, taking multiple chops to the chest and was put in several submissions, including a Boston crab. Michael Cole on commentary repeatedly pleaded with Gunther to go for the cover and end the match, but the former World Champion refused to finish off McAfee.

pop of the night! pic.twitter.com/a8jO13Xgdr
— WWE (@WWE) May 11, 2025

Cole eventually left commentary and confronted Gunther in the ring. Gunther responded by attempting to powerbomb Cole, but McAfee made the save as Cole escaped. McAfee countered with a sleeper hold of his own, but Gunther powered out and hit McAfee with a lariat. Gunther then applied the rear naked choke. McAfee struggled and got back up on his feet, but collapsed and eventually passed out, giving the match to Gunther.

MICHAEL COLE gets in on the in-ring action at #WWEBacklash! pic.twitter.com/4uiZiREQlE
— WWE (@WWE) May 11, 2025

After the match, Cole helped McAfee up on his feet as they stared at Gunther, who seemed to acknowledge McAfee for his efforts before leaving the ring.