The legendary Goldberg, a former two-time WWE Universal Champion, may find closure to his wrestling career at WrestleMania 40, retiring against Gunther, the longest-reigning Intercontinental Champion.
Despite Goldberg’s last match against The Undertaker at Crown Jewel being less than satisfying, he fulfilled it due to the promise of a retirement match. However, he never received the intended retirement bout.
WWE’s original plan was for Gunther to face Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 40, but Lesnar’s current circumstances ruled that out. Gunther left without an opponent, could now face Goldberg, providing the Hall of Famer the retirement match he desires while propelling Gunther toward superstardom.
While WWE’s decision might seem unexpected, especially under Triple H’s control, it aligns well on paper. The company seeks a significant superstar for Gunther at WrestleMania, making Goldberg, one of pro wrestling’s most dominant figures, a fitting choice.
Goldberg’s wrestling style, characterized by its brash and aggressive nature, has drawn criticism from some, including legendary wrestler Bret Hart.
Hart, in an interview with Fox Sports Australia, expressed his concerns about wrestling that causes real harm, referring to it as “Bill Goldberg wrestling.” He emphasized that pro wrestlers shouldn’t return home with actual injuries such as lumps, black eyes, or knocked-out teeth.
Despite the criticisms, Goldberg remains an iconic figure in professional wrestling, and the prospect of him facing Gunther at WrestleMania 40 adds an intriguing dynamic to both their careers. It offers Goldberg an opportunity for a proper retirement bout and potentially elevates Gunther’s status within the WWE by conquering a legend Lesnar once feared.