WWE WrestleMania often features a legend or special attraction stepping back into the ring. Unfortunately those legends or ex-stars are becoming slim pickings for the WWE. While the available list is short, there is one man who is ready for the right price. He could be next!
Dave Meltzer reports in the latest edition of The Wrestling Observer newsletter that former WCW star Bill Goldberg is ready for the right price. Goldberg has claimed that he was in negotiations with the WWE to appear at WrestleMania 30 until negotiations fell apart. According to Meltzer, Goldberg is keeping himself in shape and is ready if a deal can be reached.
The question at this point is what do you do with Goldberg if you sign him? The obvious match at 30 was Goldberg vs. Ryback. However, Ryback has cooled off quite a bit in the last few months. Any interest the company would have had in that match is gone. Could they repackage him over the next few months? Sure they can, but I have seen nothing out of Ryback that leads me to believe that push is coming.
Unfortunately the difference between Goldberg’s price and the remaining legends is quite a bit. The only other available stars are Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock. Both guys have shown little interest in returning to the ring, especially Austin. Rock’s last Mania match resulted in some terrible injuries that almost cost him a starring role in a major motion picture. If the WWE are looking for a special attraction, Goldberg may be the best bargain for their dollars.
These stories about Goldberg being a tough negotiator are almost infuriating. On the one hand I do applaud the guy for being a good businessman and playing hardball. On the other hand I get the feeling that he feels he is a much bigger deal than he really is. Let’s face it. Outside of the WCW marketing machine, he was a bit of a flop in the WWE. While booking had a lot to do with it, I just don’t know if fans are truly clamoring to see him back in the ring.
Let’s also not forget about his last WrestleMania appearance. He was booed out of the building at WrestleMania 20 against Brock Lesnar. Many regard that as one of the worst matches in Mania history. That said, Brock has certainly gotten that monkey off his back and has looked great overall since returning. I just don’t know how a 48-year old Goldberg will fair in today’s environment.
So what do you do with Goldberg if you bring him back? I wouldn’t even know where to start. I suppose you could play off of the real heat between he and Triple H and make that match. With Ryback at the bottom of the cards, I am not sure where you go. Keep in mind you’d probably have to put him over which makes it even more difficult.
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