Former WWE Champion Originally Wanted To Be Goldberg's Retirement Opponent
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Former WWE Champion Big E has revealed that he originally wanted to be the opponent for Goldberg's final retirement match. The comments came as he discussed Goldberg's recent return to challenge World Heavyweight Champion GUNTHER.
The WWE Hall of Famer returned on the June 16 episode of Raw to set up his final match. It will take place at Saturday Night's Main Event in Atlanta on July 12.
Big E's 'What If' Scenario
Speaking on a recent WWE Raw Recap show, Big E shared his long-time admiration for Goldberg. He then revealed his own desire to have been the one to face the legend in his farewell bout.
"I wanted his retirement match. That's obviously off the table," Big E said.
Big E has been sidelined since March 2022 with a severe neck injury that has put his in-ring career in jeopardy. This injury is why his dream match with Goldberg is not a possibility.
Thoughts On Goldberg vs. GUNTHER
Despite his own aspirations, Big E expressed his excitement for the newly announced Goldberg vs. GUNTHER match. He noted his intrigue over the "clash of eras."
"I will say if, if this is indeed it, GUNTHER is so intriguing," he stated. "I love the, the clash of eras... I want to see Gunther be in the ring with the biggest fish."
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He feels that while facing current stars is important, this allows GUNTHER to share the ring with a true legend. It serves as a good test for the reigning World Heavyweight Champion.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 08: Bill Goldberg speaks at the roundtable panel during HISTORY's Live Event 'Evel Live' at Omnia Nightclub at Caesars Palace on July 8, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 08: Bill Goldberg speaks at the roundtable panel during HISTORY's Live Event 'Evel Live' at Omnia Nightclub at Caesars Palace on July 8, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Picking A Winner
When it came to predicting a winner, Big E was torn. He acknowledged GUNTHER's dominance but admitted the possibility of a Goldberg win is what makes the match so compelling.
"Look, I don't see anyone beating this version of Gunther. I'm not picking anyone against Gunther, but it is, it is very possible," Big E reflected. "And I think that's what intrigues you is, is good. Could we see it? Right. Could this really happen? Is this possible? I don't think so, but maybe?"
Goldberg has stated coming into the match that he's dealt with injuries while training for it. Hopefully, he can have one last great performance.
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