Josh Barnett revealed that a highly anticipated match between himself and WWE Hall of Famer Goldberg was initially planned to headline last year’s Bloodsports Bushido event in Japan. In a recent interview, Barnett shared why this dream crossover fight ultimately didn’t come to fruition.
Barnett, appearing on the Ariel Helwani Show to promote the upcoming Blood Sports XIV event, disclosed that Goldberg was originally set as the main event for the June 2024 show at Small Hall. “The main event was supposed to be Bill Goldberg. We had everything agreed on and tried to make it happen, but in the end, it couldn’t be arranged,” Barnett explained, noting that Goldberg has significant responsibilities and contractual commitments.
Although the bout never took place, Barnett emphasized that he remains open to the fight happening someday. “Whenever Bill feels ready to do it, I’m available, but he’s had an amazing career,” Barnett said. This announcement came shortly after Barnett assisted Goldberg during his WWE retirement match walkout. Instead of the Goldberg showdown, the Bloodsport Bushido event featured Barnett going up against AEW’s Jon Moxley.
While the Goldberg match fell through, Barnett continues to promote high-profile crossover matches with his distinctive filming approach. The upcoming Bloodsport XIV event is set for Saturday, August 2nd, in New Jersey. Its lineup boasts several notable inter-promotional bouts, including WWE’s Natalya taking on TNA Knockouts World Champion Masha Slamovich and WWE’s Pete Dunne facing independent standout Jonathan Gresham.
Fan Take: This news excites WWE fans as it hints at potential dream matches that blend different wrestling worlds, offering fresh and thrilling content. A Barnett-Goldberg showdown would be a rare and unforgettable spectacle, possibly driving increased interest and innovation in combat sports entertainment.
