WWE legend Goldberg officially closed out his nearly 30‑year wrestling career last night in Atlanta, Georgia, challenging World Heavyweight Champion Gunther at Saturday Night’s Main Event XL—broadcast live from State Farm Arena on July 12, 2025.

Epic Battle in Hometown Origins

In front of a hometown crowd and surrounded by family and former WCW colleagues, Goldberg delivered a gritty final performance. Despite his signature moves—multiple shoulder blocks, a spinebuster, and one last Jackhammer—he was ultimately outmaneuvered. Gunther methodically targeted Goldberg’s injured knee and finished him with a rear‑naked choke submission around the 15‑minute mark.

A Career-Ending Moment

Goldberg’s submission marked the conclusion of his storied career, staying true to the wrestling tradition of the retiring star taking a loss. As Gunther stood tall, he retained his World Heavyweight Championship, reinforcing his dominance.

In‑Ring Drama & Physical Toll

The match flowed as a carefully constructed narrative around Goldberg’s physical limitations. Gunther exploited the veteran’s knee injury, stripping off his brace mid-match and using it as a weapon before sliding into the decisive sleeper hold. Despite this, Goldberg managed to spear Gunther into the barricade and hit his iconic Jackhammer—only for Gunther to kick out, trapping him in submission shortly after.

Final Act Cut Short

Goldberg’s emotional in-ring retirement speech was broadcast briefly before NBC abruptly cut to credits due to scheduling constraints. Fans erupted in outrage across social platforms, labeling the truncated moment a “disgrace” and an “injustice.”

“Ugh…I’m thinking, I’m doing all of this shit for one night. That’s what I’m thinking. I mean I’m literally busting my ass. I’m up here in the garage, in the gym, every night. Granted, I don’t work out like I used to. It’s a 45 minute Jack LaLanne workout as opposed to the old Goldberg days.”

Bill goes on to say he will use stem cells to repair his old and damaged body.

“I stretch for like 45 minutes. ‘Cause I remember I used to have to stretch for like 10, but now I got to stretch for an hour and 10 because I’m so ancient. I got to crawl before I run. We all know I got a pretty screwed up shoulder, and that’s my biggest concern getting into this retirement match.

…It’s all about baby steps. I have a decent amount of time to prep. The reality is [that I am going to] embark upon a journey to try and kick start myself to get in the best shape possible, try to rehab as much as possible, so that I can have a good base to build on. That extremely long dissertation means that I’m going to go get stem cells.”

What It Means Going Forward

• Gunther cements himself as a ruthless champion, unafraid to vanquish legends and adapt in-ring strategies mid-match.

• Goldberg exits on his own terms—physically battered, but emotionally triumphant, leaving a legacy defined by intensity and impact.

Final Thoughts:
Goldberg’s final match honored the essence of his career: explosive, brutal, and unforgettable—even if it ended in defeat. The blend of physical storytelling, hometown acceptance, and one last roar in the ring made it a fitting, if bittersweet, farewell.