WWE faces a dilemma ahead of Elimination Chamber as Seth Rollins, CM Punk, and Gunther are sidelined due to injuries and travel restrictions. The Intercontinental Champion, Gunther, is unable to travel to Australia due to residency regulations in Orlando, Florida, keeping him within the United States for six months.
This necessitates WWE to write him off TV before the event. Given the ongoing storyline with The New Day and Imperium, it’s probable that Gunther will be suspended for assaulting a member of The New Day, possibly breaking a rule by attacking an official to justify his absence.
Gunther recently became a father and took time off for paternity leave. Although unlikely to use the same reason twice, if Gunther is attacked by someone, it could provide a storyline excuse for his hiatus. Despite missing out on international representation, Gunther will cherish the additional time with his newborn son.
While Gunther is absent, the other Imperium members are expected to participate, alongside Australian stars Rhea Ripley, Grayson Waller, and Bronson Reed, who are likely to feature prominently in the event.