The Intercontinental Championship match at SummerSlam 2023 saw Gunther defend his title against the formidable Drew McIntyre in a highly anticipated one-on-one battle. After their intense encounters in previous multi-man matches, this showdown was a chance for McIntyre to finally get a fair shot at dethroning Gunther, who had been on a historic reign as champion.
As the bell rang, both competitors wasted no time locking up, with McIntyre using his power to drive Gunther back. However, the champion quickly responded with his signature stiff chops, leaving red welts on McIntyre’s chest. The physicality of the match was relentless, with both men exchanging brutal strikes, suplexes, and power moves.
McIntyre gained early momentum, sending Gunther into the corner and landing his signature overhead belly-to-belly suplexes. Gunther, ever the tactician, targeted McIntyre’s arm and ribs, aiming to weaken his opponent’s ability to deliver the devastating Claymore Kick. The champion delivered a vicious powerbomb, but McIntyre kicked out at two, proving his resilience.
The turning point of the match came when McIntyre countered a lariat into a Future Shock DDT, followed by a thunderous Claymore Kick. The crowd erupted, believing it was over, but Gunther managed to roll out of the ring, saving his championship reign. Frustrated, McIntyre dragged him back inside and attempted another Claymore, but Gunther sidestepped and delivered a devastating lariat, flipping McIntyre inside out.
As the match reached its climax, Gunther executed a series of punishing chops and followed up with a second powerbomb. McIntyre, showing his trademark resilience, staggered to his feet, only for Gunther to finish him off with a top-rope splash and a final powerbomb for the pinfall victory. With this win, Gunther continued his dominant reign as Intercontinental Champion, further cementing his legacy in WWE history.
The SummerSlam 2023 match between Gunther and McIntyre was a brutal, hard-hitting classic that showcased the resilience, strength, and determination of both competitors. Gunther’s victory extended his incredible reign, while McIntyre once again proved why he is one of WWE’s toughest warriors. This unforgettable battle will be remembered as one of the hardest-fought Intercontinental Title matches in recent memory.
