Wrestling

Goldberg Returns to WWE RAW, Challenges Gunther for World Heavyweight Title

June 17, 2025
Judium Media

The legendary Goldberg made a shocking reappearance on the June 16 episode of WWE RAW, taking aim at the reigning World Heavyweight Champion Gunther. This created a lot of excitement and prepared the audience for a high-stakes matchup at Saturday Night’s Main Event on July 12 in Atlanta. Let’s examine the market, its ramifications, and the implications for both rivals.

A Shock Return in the Capital of the South

The stadium exploded in screams of “Goldberg! Goldberg!” as Gunther wrapped up his promotional appearance, talking about recovering the World Heavyweight Championship and destroying his next opponents. Goldberg’s entrance tune played before Gunther could respond. In a matter of seconds, the 58-year-old Hall of Famer charged into the ring and faced Gunther directly, something that fans had been waiting for since their first encounter at Bad Blood last October. 

Goldberg reminded Gunther of their unresolved tension, including an insult aimed at his son, Gage, during that appearance. He pointed to the looming showdown—July 12 in Atlanta—and delivered a powerful challenge: “It happened in Atlanta… you’re next.” Shortly afterward, WWE confirmed the match for Saturday Night’s Main Event, making it official 

 A Farewell with a Title on the Line

It appears that this fight will be Goldberg’s retirement, therefore it’s not just any fight. A high-profile title defense in Goldberg’s hometown, just a few miles from where he trained at the WCW Power Plant, might be an enduring finale to his career, as WWE has laid out significant creative plans to give him a fitting final chapter.

The seriousness of the situation was felt by fans in the Phoenix crowd and across the nation. Goldberg is back to recover glory—and possibly walk away at the top—after he fired up to train, put up with recurrent ailments, and dedicate himself to one last drive.

Why Gunther vs. Goldberg Makes Sense

  • Personal Heat: This tension traces to October 2024’s Bad Blood, where Gunther insulted Goldberg and his son, sparking the animosity that now fuels the match 
  • Champion vs. Icon: Gunther, the “Ring General,” reclaimed the World Heavyweight Championship in June and is a credible top-tier defender. A match with Goldberg elevates his legacy and creates a generational clash 
  • Atlanta Settings: Atlanta is both a WWE and WCW crucible, and with SNE XL taking place there on July 12, the stakes are as high as they come .

What to Expect on the Road to July 12

  • Build-Up on RAW: Goldberg is likely to make multiple Fugitive appearances on RAW before the match, amplifying tension and reminding fans of his intensity as build momentum 
  • Short and Intense Match: Analysts believe the match will follow Goldberg’s “less is more” philosophy—short, explosive, and physical—with Gunther showcasing his in-ring prowess 
  • Retirement Hiatus: WWE’s “Goldberg’s Last Ride” merchandise reveals the company’s intent to draw this storyline to a close—even as the outcome remains unpredictable 

The Bigger Picture: WWE’s Strategy

  • Strengthening Gunther’s Domination: By bringing in a renowned figure to his career, WWE gives Gunther more legitimacy and sets him up for potential challenges from up-and-coming talent like Rollins or Punk.
  • A Legacy Moment: With a fitting ending that combines nostalgia and athleticism, WWE is commemorating Goldberg’s remarkable career, which included dominance in WCW, multiple WWE world titles, and entry into the NIWA Hall of Fame.
  • Creative Development under Triple H: This perspective represents a new era of WWE, honoring veterans, producing emotionally stirring moments, and developing long-term narrative arcs that will carry over into the following WrestleMania cycle.

Final Word

Goldberg’s comeback to RAW and challenge to Gunther is a painstakingly constructed moment that combines passion, physicality, and history. It’s not just a nostalgic flashback. As Atlanta prepares to host what may be his final wrestling battle, both superstars must decide how to proceed: Gunther wants to cement his historic reign, while Goldberg wants to leave in style.

On July 12, Saturday Night’s Main Event transforms from a television special to a historic occasion—a farewell, a handover of power, and the conclusion of one of WWE’s most captivating comeback stories to date.