4 Challengers for new WWE World Heavyweight Champion Gunther at Night of Champions

WWE Monday Night RAW ended just hours ago, and it was a fantastic show. There were major returns from Nikki Bella and Bayley, along with the announcement of Asuka's return for next week's show.

Additionally, there were several big-time matches. The King of the Ring Tournament and the Queen of the Ring Tournament began on the show, and the World Heavyweight Championship was at stake in the main event.

Jey Uso, the then-reigning World Heavyweight Champion, put his title on the line against the man he had defeated for the belt: Gunther. The two men battled for over 20 minutes, but in the end, Gunther shockingly made Jey Uso pass out, and The Ring General won back the World Title.

Now that Gunther has the title again, the Austrian will need to defend his prized title soon, perhaps even at Night of Champions later this month. This article will take a look at a handful of potential challengers for the newly crowned champion.

Below are four challengers for the new WWE World Heavyweight Champion, Gunther, at Night of Champions.

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#4. Goldberg still likely wants to take out The Ring General

Goldberg was an icon in WCW. He debuted and went on an undefeated streak before winning the World Title in the company. Since then, he has had two runs in WWE and held world titles during both of those stints.

Da Man announced last year that he intends to have his retirement in WWE. He also made it clear that he hopes to have that bout in 2025. Not too long after that, Goldberg appeared at Bad Blood, where he had a confrontation with Gunther.

If Goldberg intends to have his retirement match and a bout with Gunther, it could happen as soon as Night of Champions. If Goldberg is ready, he might attempt to win a World Title in what could be his final match ever.

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#3. Ilja Dragunov could return to WWE television and fight his old rival

Ilja Dragunov is one of the most intense and hard-hitting wrestlers in the business. Although the Russian WWE star may lack in size, he compensates with his intensity and explosiveness. These traits have served him well, as he is a former NXT Champion and United Kingdom Champion.

The Mad Dragon has been absent from WWE for quite a while. He suffered an injury last year at a live event during a match with Gunther. Sadly, the former NXT Champion hasn't really been heard of much since then.

If he is healthy and ready to return, he could show up and target Gunther for revenge. Not only did The Ring General injure Ilja, but the two men also have a history from NXT and NXT UK. It makes sense for them to clash again.

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#2. Jey Uso could get a rematch at Night of Champions

Jey Uso has shocked the world. After spending years as one of the best tag team wrestlers in WWE, he has transitioned to a singles star. Since then, he has won a handful of singles championships.

As noted, Main Event Jey Uso won the World Heavyweight Title at WrestleMania 41 when he made Gunther tap out. Unfortunately, the beloved WWE star subsequently lost the gold on RAW tonight.

With that defeat, Jey may not be done with The Ring General quite yet. While automatic rematches aren't inherently applied to former champions anymore, most still receive another title opportunity. Jey could get his at Night of Champions.

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#1. Roman Reigns could show up looking for the World Heavyweight Title

Roman Reigns is one of the biggest stars in pro wrestling history. With The Bloodline, he was on top of WWE for years. Even prior to that, Roman headlined WrestleMania on numerous occasions and held world titles multiple times.

The Tribal Chief was shockingly betrayed by Paul Heyman at WrestleMania 41. He was then beaten down by Seth Rollins and Bron Breakker on WWE RAW following The Show of Shows. He hasn't been seen since.

While fans assume Roman will return seeking revenge, he might instead show up and challenge Gunther. CM Punk seemingly put his issues with Rollins on hold to feud with John Cena, so Reigns could set aside his conflict with the group to chase gold of his own.