In a jaw-dropping and emotionally charged main event on the July 5, 2025 edition of WWE Dark Raw, Sami Zayn stunned the WWE Universe by defeating Gunther to become the new World Heavyweight Champion. The match, held in front of a sold-out crowd at the United Center in Chicago, delivered on all fronts, ending with one of the most shocking title changes in recent WWE history.
Main Event: World Heavyweight Championship Match
Sami Zayn def. Gunther (c)
For over a year, Gunther has been the most dominant force in WWE, successfully defending his World Heavyweight Championship against top-tier opponents. His reign has been defined by brutal matches, unmatched endurance, and an aura of invincibility. However, all of that changed when he faced a determined and defiant Sami Zayn.
The match was a technical masterpiece mixed with high drama and emotion. Gunther dominated the early portion with his signature chops and power-based offense. But Zayn, ever the underdog, absorbed the punishment and refused to stay down. The turning point came when Zayn dodged a powerbomb attempt and hit a Blue Thunder Bomb, followed by an explosive Helluva Kick that nearly ended the match.
In the final moments, Gunther attempted another powerbomb, but Zayn countered into a roll-up, nearly catching him off guard. The crowd erupted when Zayn connected with a second Helluva Kick, knocking Gunther into the corner. With the arena on its feet, Zayn pulled off the unthinkable — one final Helluva Kick, pinning Gunther clean in the center of the ring.
Winner: Sami Zayn via pinfall – New World Heavyweight Champion
After the three-count, the crowd exploded in disbelief and celebration. Zayn, emotional and teary-eyed, held the title aloft as confetti rained from the ceiling. This victory marks Sami Zayn’s first reign as World Heavyweight Champion and solidifies his place in WWE history.
Other Dark Raw Highlights:
Becky Lynch def. Zoey Stark in a hard-fought contest. Lynch continues her momentum heading into SummerSlam.
The Judgment Day confronted Jey Uso, setting up a possible six-man tag team showdown in the coming weeks.
Bron Breakker defeated LA Knight in a physical match, showcasing his continued push as a top heel.
Cody Rhodes delivered a passionat. promo, teasing a blockbuster SummerSlam announcement.
Final Thoughts
The July 5, 2025 episode of WWE Dark Raw will go down in history as the night Sami Zayn finally reached the mountaintop. His victory over the seemingly unstoppable Gunther is a moment fans will never forget. The emotional win, Zayn’s resilience, and the electric crowd reaction created pure wrestling magic.
With SummerSlam just weeks away, the landscape of WWE has shifted dramatically. All eyes are now on the new champion, Sami Zayn, and what lies ahead for both him and the dethroned Gunther.
WWE Universe — a new era has begun.
