WWE & AEW: Winners and Losers of the Week - Chad Gable's Rise, Shota Umino's Setback, and More! (2026)

This week, we delve into the world of professional wrestling and explore the winners and losers of the past seven days. From the WWE to AEW, and even a celebrity feud, there's plenty to unpack. Let's dive in!

Winners and Losers: A Week in Wrestling

Chad Gable: A Rising Star

Chad Gable's journey has been an intriguing one. Despite losing his mask to Ludwig Kaiser, Gable's momentum hasn't slowed. He's now the number one contender for Penta's Intercontinental Championship, and their upcoming match in Gable's hometown could be a career-defining moment. Personally, I think Gable's adaptability and hard work are paying off, and his babyface turn has resonated with the crowds. It's a testament to his talent that he's thriving on his own, away from the Alpha Academy.

Kevin Knight: A Rising Champion

Kevin Knight, the reigning TNT Champion, is set to challenge Kenny Omega for the AEW World Championship. While some may argue about the booking, Knight's star is undeniably on the rise. His heel turn has been well-received, and this main event opportunity is a massive platform for him to showcase his skills. Despite the potential pressure, Knight has proven his mettle by breaking AEW's record for most TNT title defenses. A win against Omega would be a huge milestone in his career.

Lyra Valkyria: A Veteran's Victory

Lyra Valkyria's victory over Bayley was a standout moment at Madison Square Garden. Her unique style, rooted in technical British wrestling, added an extra layer of grit and intensity to the match. Valkyria's win sets her up for a promising future, and WWE's booking strategy here seems to have paid off. It's a refreshing change to see a veteran put over a younger talent in a way that benefits both.

Shota Umino: An Unfortunate Loser

Shota Umino's story is a bittersweet one. After losing the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship, Umino was poised to make a comeback in the G1 Climax tournament. However, a concussion forced him to withdraw, putting him in the loser's column this week. Umino's journey has been a rollercoaster, and this injury is a reminder of the grueling nature of professional wrestling. Despite the setback, Umino's talent and potential remain intact, and we can hope for a strong comeback in the future.

Tom Brady: A Fallen Titan

Tom Brady, the legendary quarterback, has found himself in an unexpected feud with Logan Paul. Brady's post-football career has taken a turn, and his interactions with Paul highlight a sad truth about our attention-based economy. Brady, once a titan of the NFL, now finds himself in a position where he must compete for attention, riding the coattails of an influencer. It's a stark contrast to his illustrious football career, and one that leaves a bitter taste.

GUNTHER: A Disappointing Matchup

GUNTHER, the 'Career Killer,' has had a disappointing SummerSlam booking. After retiring John Cena and AJ Styles, GUNTHER was expected to have a major match at the event. Instead, he's set to face Nick Aldis, the WWE SmackDown General Manager. While the match may be unique, it's a far cry from the expectations set by GUNTHER's previous feats. The record against Cody Rhodes is also a cause for concern, and the potential lack of stakes in the match against Aldis is a letdown for GUNTHER's character.

In conclusion, this week's winners and losers showcase the highs and lows of professional wrestling. From rising stars to unexpected feuds, it's a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sport. While some stories inspire, others leave a bitter taste, but that's the beauty of wrestling—it keeps us on our toes and eager for the next chapter.

WWE & AEW: Winners and Losers of the Week - Chad Gable's Rise, Shota Umino's Setback, and More! (2026)

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Corie Satterfield

Last Updated:

Views: 6039

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (42 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Corie Satterfield

Birthday: 1992-08-19

Address: 850 Benjamin Bridge, Dickinsonchester, CO 68572-0542

Phone: +26813599986666

Job: Sales Manager

Hobby: Table tennis, Soapmaking, Flower arranging, amateur radio, Rock climbing, scrapbook, Horseback riding

Introduction: My name is Corie Satterfield, I am a fancy, perfect, spotless, quaint, fantastic, funny, lucky person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.