WWE Hall of Famer JBL has shared his thoughts on the recent controversy surrounding Goldberg’s farewell at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event, offering a veteran’s take on the logistical realities of network television and where responsibility may lie.
During a guest appearance on Something to Wrestle, JBL addressed Goldberg’s recent interview with Ariel Helwani, in which the former Universal Champion expressed disappointment that his post-match speech was cut short.
“Apparently, he sounds like he’s very upset about it…”
While JBL empathized with Goldberg’s frustration, he also emphasized that Goldberg had agreed to the terms of the televised match weeks in advance. “Apparently, he sounds like he’s very upset about it… I understand, it’s your last match. You have a lot of pride in that,” JBL began. “But you agreed to it… what, four weeks out? Should it have been a bigger build? Maybe. But when you agree to do it a certain way, and then it happens that way, I’m not sure at that point that you can blame them for pitching it.”
JBL went on to explain how strict “hard outs” work on major network broadcasts like NBC, and why timing cues are crucial. “That’s a set cue… they tell you beforehand exactly when you’ve got 10 seconds left, 30 seconds, one minute. As soon as you start talking, you have a cue. Somebody is standing right there giving you time cues.”
He clarified that these limitations don’t allow for the flexibility seen at Premium Live Events (PLEs), where things can run long. Instead, performers must make hard decisions on how they want to use their limited airtime. “If I’m wanting to cut a longer speech… I’m gonna take it out of the match,” he explained. “They’re going to sit there and most likely just say, ‘That sounds great. How much time do you want?’ That’s the conversation that goes on.”
Goldberg’s Future
When asked if Goldberg could have one more match, JBL didn’t rule it out—especially outside of WWE. “I think we could [see it]. I don’t think, obviously not in WWE. But yeah, I think he’s so upset about it that… what they did with him here, because you showed what Goldberg is, not was, but is. I think his legacy goes down as one of the greatest draws of all time.”
Goldberg has hinted at “spilling the beans” on his farewell in the coming weeks, suggesting that more revelations could be on the way. Fans are now speculating whether the WWE Hall of Famer could step back into the ring for one final match—perhaps in another promotion.
Stay tuned to PWMania.com for all updates on Goldberg’s next move.
