Pat McAfee’s fearless WWE Backlash battle against Gunther just won him legendary fan respect

In a moment few saw coming, former NFL punter and current ESPN analyst Pat McAfee stepped out from behind the desk and into the ring at WWE Backlash in St. Louis. Facing off against Gunther—one of WWE's most dominant and feared superstars—McAfee entered the bout not just as an underdog, but as a wild card in a match that quickly became the talk of the night.While the match ended with Pat McAfee unconscious in a devastating sleeper hold, it was his refusal to tap out that truly stole the show.The crowd roared, and social media lit up. McAfee later posted, “Never tapped aht. #WWEBacklash,” a statement that felt like both a badge of honor and a subtle shot at Gunther, who himself had tapped out to Jey Uso not long ago. The implication? McAfee may have lost, but he didn’t give in.The WWE Universe didn’t just watch; they felt the match. One fan summed it up: “Pat McAfee is one BAD— MO———-!!! Stood up to Gunther and got back on his own two feet.” Another added, “Falling asleep, but in a way gaining respect in defeat.” That sentiment echoed across platforms—McAfee may have fallen, but he fell with fire.His backstage hug with Michael Cole, the emotional ovation from the crowd, and his battered Instagram story all underscored that this wasn’t just a one-off stunt. It was a passion play, an ode to standing up even when the odds—and Gunther’s forearms—are against you.From NFL standout to charismatic commentator to fearless in-ring fighter, McAfee’s trajectory mirrors a Marvel-level transformation. Think Captain America outmatched but never outwilled. Think Iron Man standing tall without the suit. And when fans say, “Pat McAfee should get more matches in the future,” it’s not just hype—it’s a demand.Also Read: Shedeur Sanders shares how Tom Brady’s draft history mirrors his own NFL slide, says "My story is going to be similar"As for what’s next? With Gunther suspended post-match for attacking Michael Cole and McAfee’s gutsy performance fresh in everyone’s minds, one thing is clear: win or lose, Pat McAfee walked out of Backlash with something you can’t fake—real respect.And sometimes, that matters more than the scoreboard.