WWE star Gunther expressed surprise upon discovering that ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith ranked Goldberg as the greatest wrestler of all time, while also minimizing the WCW icon’s retirement. The Ring General is set to “retire” another wrestling legend when he faces John Cena in the main event of Saturday Night Main Event on December 13.
During an appearance on ESPN First Take to promote his match with Cena at Washington, D.C.’s Capital One Arena, Gunther revealed he was shocked to see Goldberg placed at the top of Smith’s list of all-time best wrestlers. He remarked, “Goldberg at number one? I’ve never seen anyone rank him that high before.” When Smith shared his admiration for Goldberg, Gunther responded, “I love Goldberg too. I loved choking him; it was fun.”
Gunther had previously hinted at a match with Goldberg in July’s Saturday Night Main Event, where he subdued the wrestling veteran with a sleeper hold, leading to Goldberg’s retirement after losing the World Heavyweight Championship at SummerSlam. Goldberg remains a controversial figure in wrestling history due to questions about his in-ring skills. Even WWE’s Chief Content Officer, Triple H, expressed skepticism about ranking Goldberg as number one, acknowledging his greatness but questioning the top spot choice.
Goldberg’s career highlights include a dominant streak in WCW during the late ’90s, going undefeated in 173 matches, and winning three world titles in WWE before retiring earlier this year.
In addition, Gunther took a jab at John Cena’s signature jorts, critiquing their place in professional wrestling. “When I started wrestling 20 years ago, I hated the guy in the jorts on TV every week. I thought he didn’t deserve to be in the ring. I’m a purist and a traditionalist,” said Gunther. Despite this, he acknowledged Cena as arguably the greatest sports entertainer of all time but claimed himself to be the greatest professional wrestler of their era.
Gunther earned the right to face Cena by winning the Last Time is Now tournament, defeating LA Knight in the finals. He has been a dominant figure in WWE this year, currently holding the World Heavyweight Championship for the second time, coming off his victory over Goldberg.
Fan Take: This news is significant for WWE fans as it highlights the ongoing debate over wrestling greatness, sparking passionate discussions about legacy and style in the sport. Gunther’s rising dominance and his upcoming match with Cena mark a thrilling chapter in WWE, promising high-stakes drama and potential shifts in wrestling hierarchies.
