The former WWE World Tag Team Champions, Erik and Ivar, known as The War Raiders, are set to make their debut in another promotion. The duo is confirmed to compete at Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XIV this Saturday, during SummerSlam weekend.
The announcement marks a rare appearance for a WWE-contracted tag team at a high-profile independent event, especially one with Bloodsport’s unique format, which features a ropeless ring and allows victories only by knockout or submission.
Josh Barnett, the event organizer, confirmed their participation on his social media. In his post, he wrote: “WAR is coming to Bloodsport. Ivar. Erik. The War Raiders seek to conquer new territories… or die trying. The War Raiders are coming to Josh Barnett’s: Bloodsport.”
The duo’s participation is a major highlight for the event, which will also feature other WWE stars such as Pete Dunne, Natalya, and Charlie Dempsey. This collaboration occurs as Barnett himself has recently been seen on WWE programming, having been part of Goldberg’s entourage for his retirement match.
Within WWE, The War Raiders remain a cornerstone of the RAW tag team division. After losing their titles to The New Day at WrestleMania 41, they have continued to be featured in prominent storylines. Their appearance at Bloodsport is seen as a strategic move to enhance their personas and reconnect with the more aggressive style that made them popular on the independent circuit and in Japan before their tenure with WWE.