In a surprising turn on WWE’s Monday Night Raw on June 16, wrestling icon Goldberg made a dramatic return to set the stage for his retirement match against World Heavyweight Champion GUNTHER. Scheduled for July 12 at Saturday Night’s Main Event, this announcement has sparked widespread debate among fans and critics alike.
One vocal critic, Bully Ray of Busted Open Radio, labeled WWE’s decision to grant Goldberg an immediate title shot as “lazy.” Ray pointed out that even legendary figures like John Cena had to earn their championship opportunities through grueling matches like the Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber. Goldberg, however, remains unfazed by the criticism.
Goldberg’s Defense: A Legacy of Dominance
Speaking with Dan Sileo of JAKIB Sports, Goldberg defended his right to face GUNTHER, citing his unparalleled record in WCW where he famously went 176-0 in 1998. He dismissed Bully Ray’s comments with characteristic bluntness.
“I was 176-0. I don’t have to stand in freaking line…so Bully Ray can bite me. But everybody’s got an opinion, and Bully Ray has a podcast that’s about wrestling, right? And so you’re obviously gonna chime in and give your two cents. And I love him to death, and I respect his opinion. But his opinion is like an asshole, and everybody’s got one. So I mean, that’s fine.”
Goldberg agreed with the notion that his past achievements should afford him the same privileges as other wrestling legends like The Rock or Steve Austin, who have also returned to WWE for major matches without the need to prove themselves anew.
“I do believe you’re correct, a thousand percent…they put the title on me in WCW after being in the business for less than a year, in front of 50,000 people in Atlanta. I think they knew what they were doing. I mean, it wasn’t my decision by any stretch of the imagination. Every single time I’ve been asked to do something, I’ve done it in this business. I haven’t come in and demanded anything. Well, not much.”
Aging in the Spotlight
Goldberg also addressed comments about his appearance during his Raw return, acknowledging the reality of aging. At 58, he admits that he looks older and moves differently but remains determined to prove his worth in the ring.
“Everybody’s [saying], ‘Oh, Goldberg’s limping to the ring. Goldberg’s small! Goldberg’s old!’ I am freaking old! What do you want me to do…turn the clock back? Show me another 58-year-old dude that’s willing to go out and do this. I mean, there’s a couple. But I’m gonna hopefully surpass their performance. At the end of the day, I gotta surpass my performance in the past.”
Despite the challenges of age, Goldberg is resolute in his mission not to end his career on a low note, referencing a disappointing performance in Saudi Arabia in 2022.
“I ain’t freaking going out the way I went out. Period. End of story. So at 58 years old, if I have to go in there hobbled, if I have to go in there 30 pounds lighter, I don’t give a shit. Because I have a point to make. At 58 years old can I still make that point? I don’t know, but I’m gonna do my best. And my best is, 50% of me is better than 99% of the pricks on the planet, I believe. …It’s a huge risk. Am I risking the legacy of Goldberg in the ring? Yeah, I mean always, every time you step in there you risk that. But it’s risk versus reward.”
The Legacy and Future of Goldberg
Goldberg’s return and upcoming match against GUNTHER have reignited discussions about the role of legacy stars in WWE. While some argue that such returns detract from the opportunities available to younger talent, others believe that legends like Goldberg bring invaluable experience and draw to the sport.
As the wrestling world awaits his showdown with GUNTHER, Goldberg’s stance remains clear: his legacy is built on a foundation of unmatched achievements and a commitment to excellence, regardless of age. Whether this final chapter will cement his status or risk his storied career remains to be seen, but Goldberg is determined to leave the ring on his terms.
