Goldberg’s Last Ride: 3 WWE Stars Who Could Retire the Legend in His Final Match
Goldberg is undeniably one of the most legendary and dominant figures in WWE history. With a career spanning decades, his presence has been felt across multiple eras, leaving behind a legacy of destruction, intensity, and unparalleled dominance inside the squared circle. Now, at the age of 58, the former WCW and WWE Champion has officially announced his retirement match, set to take place in the summer of 2025.
As the wrestling world speculates about who will stand across the ring from Goldberg in his farewell match, several top WWE stars emerge as ideal candidates. In this article, we will analyze three potential opponents who could have the honor of retiring Goldberg, each bringing a unique story and dynamic to the matchup.
1. Roman Reigns: The Tribal Chief Ends an Era
Why Roman Reigns?
Roman Reigns is currently the most dominant force in WWE and has solidified himself as the face of the company over the last few years. As the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, Reigns has dismantled legends and future Hall of Famers alike, proving that he is at the pinnacle of sports entertainment.
If there is one man who can legitimately retire Goldberg while further cementing his legacy, it is the Tribal Chief.
The Storyline
Goldberg and Reigns have history dating back to 2020 when they were originally scheduled to face off at WrestleMania 36. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, that match never happened. When they finally clashed at Elimination Chamber 2022, Reigns made short work of Goldberg, defeating him via submission.
A rematch between the two in Goldberg’s retirement match would be the perfect full-circle moment. Goldberg, seeking redemption in his final match, could challenge Reigns for one last battle, attempting to prove that he still has what it takes to defeat WWE’s most dominant superstar.
The Match and Outcome
While Goldberg’s intensity and explosiveness remain his calling cards, Reigns’ methodical, power-based offense would allow for a compelling contest. The match could see Goldberg hitting a few of his signature moves, including the Spear and Jackhammer, only for Reigns to counter with his own devastating Spear.
In the end, Reigns would inevitably emerge victorious, solidifying his role as WWE’s undisputed top star while giving Goldberg a respectful and fitting sendoff. The post-match moment could include an emotional handshake or embrace, symbolizing the passing of the torch from one dominant force to another.
2. Brock Lesnar: The Final Chapter of a Storied Rivalry
Why Brock Lesnar?
Few superstars have had as much history with Goldberg as Brock Lesnar. Their rivalry, dating back to 2004, has defined both men’s careers in different ways. While their initial encounter at WrestleMania XX was widely panned, their series of matches in 2016–2017 helped redefine their legacies.
Lesnar and Goldberg have split wins in their encounters, with Goldberg shocking the world by defeating Lesnar in under two minutes at Survivor Series 2016 before Lesnar got his revenge at WrestleMania 33. A rubber match between the two to close out Goldberg’s career would be an epic way to end his tenure in WWE.
The Storyline
The storyline writes itself: Goldberg, knowing that he is nearing the end of his career, wants to prove that he is still one of the most dominant forces in WWE. Meanwhile, Lesnar, known for his brute force and unforgiving fighting style, is eager to remind the world that he is WWE’s most dangerous competitor.
Goldberg could issue a challenge to Lesnar, stating that their rivalry needs one final match—a true decider that will end their feud once and for all.
The Match and Outcome
Goldberg and Lesnar’s matches have always been hard-hitting and fast-paced, with a flurry of Spears, Jackhammers, F5s, and Suplexes defining their encounters. This match would be no different, with both men going all out in one final war.
Ultimately, Lesnar should be the one to win, given his long-term value to WWE. A decisive victory over Goldberg would allow Lesnar to solidify himself as the definitive winner of their rivalry while giving Goldberg a proper, hard-fought sendoff.
The post-match moment could see Lesnar acknowledging Goldberg’s contributions to the industry in his own unique way—perhaps even giving him a nod of respect as he walks away for the final time.
3. Gunther: The Next Generation Conquers a Legend
Why Gunther?
Gunther, the longest-reigning Intercontinental Champion in WWE history, has been a dominant force in the company. His old-school, hard-hitting style, combined with his technical prowess, makes him a natural successor to the powerhouse legacy that Goldberg represents.
A match against Goldberg in his retirement bout would serve as a passing-of-the-torch moment, solidifying Gunther as one of WWE’s next big main event superstars.
The Storyline
Goldberg has always prided himself on his intensity and ability to dominate opponents. However, in Gunther, he would face an opponent who matches and even exceeds that intensity in a much more refined way.
Gunther could take offense at Goldberg’s legacy, arguing that his dominance was built on short matches and limited technical skill. Meanwhile, Goldberg could respond by stating that he has proven himself against the best time and time again and is willing to go toe-to-toe with anyone—even the Ring General himself.
The Match and Outcome
A Goldberg vs. Gunther match would be vastly different from the other potential encounters. Gunther’s ability to wear down opponents with chops, powerbombs, and submission holds would put Goldberg in a situation he’s rarely been in: fighting from underneath.
Goldberg could hit some of his signature moves, but Gunther’s resilience and ruthless offense would ultimately be too much. After a grueling battle, Gunther would finally put Goldberg down for good with a series of devastating Powerbombs, securing the biggest victory of his career.
By defeating Goldberg, Gunther would not only add a massive name to his list of fallen opponents but also take a huge step toward becoming a future world champion.
: Who Should Retire Goldberg?
Each of these three WWE superstars presents a compelling case to be Goldberg’s final opponent:
- Roman Reigns offers a full-circle moment and a symbolic passing of the torch to WWE’s biggest modern star.
- Brock Lesnar would conclude a long-standing rivalry in a fittingly brutal final encounter.
- Gunther represents the new generation, proving himself by conquering one of wrestling’s most dominant legends.
Ultimately, WWE’s decision will likely come down to storytelling and long-term booking plans. Regardless of who steps up to face Goldberg in his retirement match, one thing is certain: it will be an emotional and historic night, marking the end of one of the most impactful careers in professional wrestling history.
Goldberg has thrilled fans for decades with his intensity, dominance, and unforgettable moments. His final match will be an opportunity to celebrate his legacy while elevating whoever has the honor of standing across the ring from him. Whether it’s Roman Reigns, Brock Lesnar, or Gunther, WWE will make sure that Goldberg’s last ride is one to remember.
