Mason Rook Says GUNTHER Was More Menacing As WALTER

Mason Rook thinks GUNTHER’s former frame was more of an inspiration.

Prior to signing with WWE earlier this year, Will Kroos was a major part of the UK independent scene. Known for his size, athleticism, and having a major fan in John Cena, Kroos’ performances up and down the country impressed the right people at Titan Towers. Now known as Mason Rook in NXT, the star followed in the footsteps of many European wrestlers before him, most notably “The Ring General” GUNTHER. The former WALTER wrestled across Europe and beyond before making the switch to America, at the same down trimming down massively to his current physique. However, if you ask Rook, the size once possessed by the Austrian superstar was more impressive.

Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Rook explained how the heft of GUNTHER had added to his presence in his eyes.

“I enjoy this new version of him, but personally, I would say as someone who would look to be inspired by different wrestlers and look to take bits from, I would definitely say when Gunther was a bit heavier and bigger, I would say he was a lot more menacing. That is who I would want to be in there with. That’s who I looked at and was like, ‘Wow, this guy is someone who I should look and try and emulate.’”

-Mason Rook

GUNTHER is a former two-time World Heavyweight Champion in WWE, as well as holding the record for the longest reign as Intercontinental Champion. However, before reaching those heights, he held the PROGRESS, OTT, and TNT World Championships, as well as becoming a three-time wXw Unified World Wrestling Champion.

As for Mason Rook, the Brit toured the indies, dominating wherever he went. Among his accolades, he had a reign as PROGRESS Atlas Champion, while notably holding the World War Wrestling Championship for over 1,300 days. Most recently, Rook became the number one contender to the NXT Championship by coming out on top against both Saquon Shugars and Tony D’Angelo on September 15.

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As always, we’ll aim to provide any further updates on both GUNTHER and Mason Rook as soon as we hear more.

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