Goldberg's Emotional Farewell: WWE Icon's Final Match Ends in Defeat

In a match that was billed as Goldberg’s Last Dance, the 58-year-old Hall of Famer stood toe-to-toe with "The Ring General" in attempt to close the chapter on his wrestling career in a match more fitting his legendary status as a wrestling icon. Having gone out prior in a less-than-stellar match, Goldberg had long been awaiting a chance to rewrite the end of his in-ring career. He went out on his back, but it was a much better bout, allowing him to leave the industry with dignity.

Goldberg’s family and longtime friends, including several people key to his run in WCW were on hand. Diamond Dallas Page and Goldberg's son, Gage, were in attendance as he made his final walk to the ring. After delivering a signature Spear and Jackhammer, a brief hope spot thrilled the crowd, but Gunther kicked out. Dealing with a leg injury going into the contest, Goldberg sold the leg as Gunther worked it over. Ultimately, the injury was too much and Gunther applied a sleeper, forcing a stoppage by the official. Gunther put Goldberg to sleep in the center of the ring to retain the title.

There were thoughts that WWE might use this opportunity to have a swerve ending, with Brock Lesnar return teases and a Seth Rollins injury (that appears to be legitimate) as ways to close the show. What WWE opted for was giving Goldberg a chance to say thank you and goodbye to the Atlanta crowd.

Goldberg Got To Say A Proper Goodbye To His Fans

Despite apologizing to his fans for the loss, this was a much better match for Goldberg, even though he was dealing with an injury. This was a Gunther-style contest that allowed the Ring General to help Goldberg to the finish line. The hard-hitting champion methodically wore down the WWE legend, though Goldberg took his chops with a grin early on. In the end, Goldberg succumbed to the current World Champion, but not before delivering a gutsy performance.

Following the match, Goldberg stood in the ring, surrounded by family and friends, to bid farewell. Though time constraints cut his speech short on the live NBC/Peacock broadcast, WWE’s social media captured the moment, simply captioning: “Thank you, Goldberg.”