However, interference from Ludwig Kaiser that targeted the knee of The Celtic Warrior put Sheamus on the defensive for the majority of the match and gave The Ring General a giant target to focus his attention on.

He did just that. Every time Sheamus fought his way back into the match, Gunther refocused on the knee before forcing a submission to the half Boston Crab.

This was another classic physical encounter between two men who seemingly love beating the life out of each other. This one had the added story of Kaiser’s involvement in setting up the finish, which also protected Sheamus.

Gunther winning made sense as he has been the favorite to win the whole tournament from the moment he announced his eligibility. Nothing about this changed that perception.

Result

Gunther defeated Sheamus to advance

Grade

A

Top Moments and Takeaways

1. • The chests of both combatants were beet-red entering the commercial break, just minutes into the match.
   • The camera caught a clear handprint on Sheamus’ shoulder, highlighting the physicality of this match.