Through the years, I spent lots of time with Goldberg. Performing at the highest level, even while injured, has always been his top priority. Where others may have taken the advice of a medical professional to pass on a match due to a nagging physical trauma, Goldberg’s inner self would take over and make him refuse the option of not performing.

I like Goldberg as both a wrestler and person. I was hoping that Goldberg’s in-ring battles would come to an end after his win over Bobby Lashley at WWE’s Crown Jewel on October 21, 2021. His performance was really solid against this top rated, brutally tough opponent. I feel having his hand raised in Saudi Arabia would have been the right time to end his active in-ring career. It was a definite high spot when he speared Lashley into a very rare defeat.

It’s obvious that Goldberg wants to show everyone – including himself – that he can keep competing on a high enough level to have a good bout against a top-tier WWE wrestler. He has found that person in the persona of Roman Reigns, the WWE Universal Champion. Goldberg made the challenge and will face him at the WWE Elimination Chamber on February 19th in Saudi Arabia.

Reigns, at 36 years old, has matured into an excellent performer. He still has not peaked in my opinion. Goldberg, at 55 years old, hit his best level many years ago. However, the way he keeps in shape and his mental determination makes him a highly dangerous challenger. But can he handle the ring-wise Reigns, who actively competes several times a week? That question alone that puts Goldberg at a major disadvantage.

On the topic of Goldberg’s comeback, I asked a cross-section of pro wrestling notables what they thought. I started with someone you are all very familiar with, Eric Bischoff. Eric has been around Goldberg since Bill broke into the business. I knew he would have a very intelligent perspective. Here’s what he told me:

You may not know the name Sal LaSardo Jr. An extremely outspoken, very opinionated video reporter for my YouTube channel – www.billapter.com – Sal holds nothing back in his feelings that Goldberg should not be making this comeback.

In addition to having a storied career in the ring, Booker T is also a fine pro wrestling analyst. He compared Goldberg’s comeback to a series of iconic movies he’s very fond of.

David Penzer was the ring announcer for WCW for several years. His excellent introductions were always part of Goldberg’s amazing entrance. David’s inimitable voice was also heard on TNA, and he is currently the ring announcer for IMPACT Wrestling. I thought he would be a good talent to ask because he spent so many years with Goldberg in WCW.

To end this column, of course, I had to seek out and find the infamous Goldberg wannabe, Duane “Gillberg” Gill.

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