Goldberg — WWE Hall of Famer Details "Disappointing" WWE Farewell, Praises Gunther, WHAT'S NEXT?

Wrestling legend Bill Goldberg officially closed the book on his Hall of Fame career this past Saturday at Saturday Night’s Main Event, but the icon is making it clear: this was not the retirement moment he had envisioned.

Facing off against WWE World Heavyweight Champion Gunther in front of a roaring Atlanta crowd, Goldberg competed in his first match since 2022—and his final match ever. While the 58-year-old powerhouse expressed appreciation for the chance to walk out one last time, his recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show revealed frustrations that clouded his farewell.

“It was an honor and a privilege to get that done,” Goldberg told Helwani. “But not the way I wanted to… just as in control as I could be.”

Goldberg disclosed that talks with WWE began back in November about arranging a proper retirement bout. He was hopeful for a major build-up, perhaps at a Premium Live Event, where fans could celebrate his legacy in grand fashion. Instead, his sendoff came together with just three weeks’ notice—and aired live on a traditional cable special rather than a marquee event.

“You always have your dreams of how you’re going to do things… and ultimately to have a little bit more control over the time and space would have been much more preferred,” he said.

Even more frustrating, his post-match farewell speech—a chance to finally address his fans—was cut short due to broadcast timing. Goldberg didn’t outright accuse WWE of sabotaging the segment, but he didn’t dismiss the idea that it was “not exactly accidental” either.

“They wouldn’t do that to Taker. They’re not going to do that to Cena… Mine was just a World Heavyweight Championship match,” he remarked, with a tone of quiet resignation.

Goldberg made it clear he would have appreciated a longer runway to his final performance, ideally with promotion months in advance to celebrate his decades-long career. While he noted he’d wait “two weeks” to potentially speak more candidly about what went down, it remains to be seen whether he’ll expand further.

Despite the disappointment, Goldberg had nothing but respect for Gunther, who guided the veteran through a nearly 15-minute match.

“Gunther was unbelievable to work with,” he said. “There were moments in that match where I actually enjoyed myself… and I can’t say I’ve done that very many times.”

Even in defeat, Goldberg walked away pain-free and proud—physically, if not emotionally.

🗣️ MainEvent.News | Backstage Take

Goldberg’s farewell wasn’t the flashy, reverent sendoff a Hall of Famer might expect—but maybe that’s part of the story. WWE often balances legacy with business, and in this case, Goldberg’s goodbye got caught in the mix. The match itself was solid, the opponent worthy, but the rollout lacked the gravitas his status deserved. That said, Gunther’s performance elevated the moment, and Goldberg’s candid reflections—equal parts bittersweet and brutally honest—will likely hit home for fans who grew up watching him tear through WCW and WWE rosters alike. Whether he opens up more in two weeks or stays cryptic, one thing is clear: Goldberg didn’t get the perfect sendoff… but he walked out under his own terms.

Watch the full interview with Goldberg on The Ariel Helwani Show below: