Kevin Owens’ return to WWE has quickly put him in the middle of several potential rivalries, and the latest warning came from Gunther on the August 21 episode of SmackDown.
The highly anticipated first-ever singles match between CM Punk and Kevin Owens will take center stage on the latest edition of WWE SmackDown live from the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada. “The Prizefighter” earned the opportunity after returning from a severe neck injury and securing the number-one contender spot at SummerSlam.
While speaking with Cathy Kelley backstage, Owens was approached by Finn Balor. The latter welcomed his friend back but questioned why Owens did not tell him he was returning during his match.
The conversation soon took an interesting turn when Gunther joined them. The former World Heavyweight Champion acknowledged the pressure surrounding Owens’ opportunity, particularly with the championship match taking place in front of his home-country crowd.
Gunther then dismissed Balor as a “shadow of himself” and told Owens that he should be more concerned about what happens if he becomes champion.
The warning was enough to catch Owens’ attention, although he responded with some humor after Gunther walked away. Owens asked Balor whether Gunther was genuinely upset or whether that was simply his accent.
Balor confirmed that Gunther was upset but refused to let the exchange distract him from his own goal. He then made it clear that his focus could shift to Owens once the championship match was over.
“And when I do, I’ll be waiting for you on the other side.”
Owens welcomed the possibility rather than backing away from it.
“I hope you are.”
The brief exchange could have significant implications for Owens’ future. While Punk stands between him and the WWE Championship, Gunther has already made his interest known, and Balor appears prepared to pursue his friend if Owens leaves SmackDown with the title.
Owens’ path back to the top has already produced one major opportunity. Now, even before he steps into the ring with Punk, the former Universal Champion has been given plenty to think about regarding what could come next.
