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That said, in this article, we look at three things that may happen if the SmackDown General Manager somehow gets his hand raised.
#3. Gunther could take time off WWE television
Gunther has built his reputation on dominance. From his historic Intercontinental Championship reign to his victories over some of WWE’s biggest names, The Ring General has rarely suffered meaningful defeats.
Perhaps that’s why losing to Nick Aldis, an authority figure returning to active competition, would likely be one of the biggest setbacks of his WWE career.
Instead of immediately throwing Gunther back into another rivalry, the company could use the defeat as the perfect opportunity to write him off television temporarily.
A short absence would allow The Ring General to regroup while selling the emotional impact of such an unexpected loss. WWE has often used this approach with top stars. Thus, allowing them to disappear after a crushing defeat before returning with a renewed sense of purpose.
Also, it would prevent Gunther from being overexposed following a result that could otherwise damage his aura if not handled carefully. When he eventually returns, WWE could present him as an even more dangerous competitor, determined to reclaim his place at the top after suffering the most humiliating defeat of his career.
#2. Gunther could move back to Monday Night RAW
A SummerSlam loss could also signal the end of Gunther’s current chapter on SmackDown.
Since arriving on the blue brand, The Ring General has remained a constant threat in the main event scene. However, a defeat to Aldis may leave him with little unfinished business. That could create the perfect opening for WWE to move him back to Monday Night RAW.
The red brand is currently filled with powerhouse competitors and championship opportunities that naturally fit Gunther’s style. Fresh rivalries against stars like Bron Breakker, or even a renewed pursuit of the World Heavyweight Championship, would instantly give him meaningful direction.
Also, a brand switch would help distance The Ring General from the Nick Aldis storyline. Thus, allowing WWE to refresh both shows without drastically changing either roster.
Most importantly, it would ensure that one defeat doesn’t permanently stall Gunther’s momentum. Sometimes, a fresh environment is exactly what an elite superstar needs to begin another dominant run.
#1. Nick Aldis could become a full-time WWE Superstar
Perhaps the biggest consequence of a Nick Aldis victory would involve his own future. Although he has excelled as SmackDown’s General Manager, defeating someone of Gunther’s caliber would prove that he still belongs among WWE’s active competitors.
That could encourage Triple H to gradually transition Aldis away from an authority role and back into full-time competition.
The timing would make sense. Aldis already possesses the credibility, experience, and in-ring ability to contribute to WWE’s main event scene. Thus, beating one of the company’s most dominant stars would instantly elevate him into championship conversations. Also, it would open the door to fresh rivalries against CM Punk, Cody Rhodes, or other top names depending on the company’s long-term plans.
Nick Aldis’ executive role wouldn’t necessarily have to disappear overnight. WWE has previously featured authority figures who occasionally competed before eventually returning to full-time wrestling.
Thus, an Aldis comeback would also add another established main-event talent to a roster that continues to evolve heading into the latter half of 2026.
At the same time, WWE would need to strike the right balance. If Nick Aldis defeats Gunther, the victory must feel like the culmination of a carefully told story rather than the beginning of an extended run where he regularly defeats younger stars. The company should use the upset to establish Nick as a credible competitor while ensuring Gunther remains one of the most feared performers.
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