The fallout from Goldberg’s retirement continues, with industry veterans now predicting how WWE will handle the Hall of Famer’s public criticisms of the company. Following Goldberg’s defeat to Gunther at Saturday Night’s Main Event, his post-match retirement speech was abruptly cut from the broadcast, a move he has openly blasted.
In a conversation with Vince Russo, former WWE personality Jonathan Coachman addressed the situation, suggesting the company’s actions may have been intentional. Coachman theorized that WWE may have cut the speech short as a form of “payback” for Goldberg being difficult to work with behind the scenes.
“I do think he was probably a pain in the a* to work with, and WWE said, ‘this is how we get back at him’,”* Coachman stated. “I do think WWE did it on purpose, but I do not think he understands just where his interview could have gone and now WWE will take it down from everywhere.”
Goldberg himself has not been quiet about his displeasure. In multiple interviews, he stated he was “pissed off” with the send-off, which he felt was “a little less than to be desired,” especially after he brought 91 personal guests to the event in his hometown of Atlanta. While confirming he is “retired in principle,” Goldberg left his future ambiguous.
“You’re not retired until you’re dead,” he said.
That ambiguity has fueled further speculation. On his podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross stated he does not believe fans have seen the last of Goldberg in a wrestling ring, suggesting his dissatisfaction could lead to a more fitting career conclusion elsewhere.
The strained relationship between Goldberg and WWE appears to have had tangible consequences. Goldberg revealed in a recent interview that he personally rejected a “Next In Line” developmental contract that WWE offered to his son, Gage Goldberg.
The entire controversy stems from the main event of the July 12 Saturday Night’s Main Event. Goldberg challenged Gunther for the World Heavyweight Championship but was ultimately defeated after passing out in a sleeper hold submission.