WWE Super ShowDown: Goldberg Vs. Undertaker - A Disaster?
Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive deep into one of the most talked-about (and perhaps infamous) matches in recent WWE history: Goldberg vs. The Undertaker at Super ShowDown 2019. This match was hyped as a dream encounter between two legends, but it quickly turned into a nightmare for many viewers. Let's break down what went wrong, the context surrounding the event, and why it's still discussed today.
The Buildup and Expectations
Goldberg and The Undertaker are two of the most iconic figures in wrestling history. Goldberg, with his explosive power and dominant run in WCW, and The Undertaker, with his mystique and unparalleled longevity in WWE, represent different eras of wrestling dominance. The idea of them clashing in the ring was a tantalizing prospect for fans who grew up watching them. Imagine the promos, the stare-downs, and the sheer force of two titans colliding!
The match was set for Super ShowDown in Saudi Arabia on June 7, 2019. WWE events in Saudi Arabia have often aimed to deliver spectacle and grandeur, and this match certainly fit that bill. The promotion leading up to the event heavily emphasized the legendary status of both performers, playing on nostalgia and the allure of seeing these two legends face off for the first time in their careers. The marketing was intense, promising a clash for the ages. Fans were ready to witness history, expecting a hard-hitting, memorable encounter.
However, behind the hype, there were concerns. Both Goldberg and The Undertaker were past their prime. Goldberg's matches in recent years had been short and impactful but sometimes sloppy, while The Undertaker's performances had become increasingly inconsistent. The question lingered: Could they still deliver a match worthy of their legacies? The buildup created an atmosphere of both excitement and trepidation, a mix that would ultimately define the event itself. Despite these concerns, the draw of seeing these two icons in the same ring was undeniable, leading to massive anticipation and viewership. This careful cultivation of hype, while effective in drawing eyeballs, set the stage for a potentially devastating fall if the match didn't live up to expectations.
The Match: A Breakdown of What Went Wrong
Unfortunately, the match between Goldberg and The Undertaker at Super ShowDown 2019 is largely remembered for its botches, missteps, and overall lack of fluidity. From the opening bell, it was clear that both wrestlers were struggling. Goldberg, known for his intense and quick bursts of action, appeared to be off his game. One of the earliest and most glaring errors occurred when Goldberg attempted a Jackhammer on The Undertaker. The move went awry, with Goldberg dropping The Undertaker awkwardly, nearly resulting in a serious injury.
The botches didn't stop there. Goldberg visibly busted himself open after hitting the ring post, adding a layer of unintended drama to the already faltering match. The Undertaker, usually a picture of composure and control, also seemed out of sync, moving slower than usual and struggling with some of his signature moves. The timing was off, and the chemistry between the two wrestlers was noticeably lacking. It felt like two legends trying to recreate past glories but falling short due to age and accumulated wear and tear.
The match dragged on, filled with awkward pauses and mistimed sequences. The crowd in Saudi Arabia, initially excited, grew increasingly quiet as the reality of the situation sunk in. What was supposed to be a legendary encounter devolved into a painful spectacle. The ending came when The Undertaker managed to hit a Tombstone Piledriver for the win, but even that was executed with a visible struggle. The relief was palpable, not just for the wrestlers but also for the audience watching. It was a match that everyone wanted to end as quickly as possible.
The issues weren't just limited to physical mistakes; there was a clear lack of story being told in the ring. Matches that resonate with fans often have a narrative woven into the action, with each move contributing to a larger story of struggle, resilience, or betrayal. In this case, the match felt disjointed, with little sense of purpose beyond the simple act of two wrestlers going through the motions. This lack of narrative depth further contributed to the disappointment surrounding the event.
The Aftermath and Reactions
The reaction to the Goldberg vs. Undertaker match at Super ShowDown was swift and overwhelmingly negative. Wrestling fans took to social media to express their disappointment, with many labeling it one of the worst matches of the year, if not of all time. The criticism was harsh but largely justified. The match failed to live up to the hype and, more importantly, it risked tarnishing the legacies of both Goldberg and The Undertaker.
Wrestling pundits and critics weighed in, echoing the sentiments of fans. Many questioned the decision to book the match in the first place, arguing that both wrestlers were past their prime and that the match was more about spectacle than substance. The botches and missteps were dissected and analyzed, with many pointing to the dangers of putting older wrestlers in high-pressure situations. The consensus was that the match was a disservice to the fans and to the wrestlers themselves.
Behind the scenes, there were reports of frustration and concern. WWE officials were reportedly unhappy with the match, and there were discussions about how to address the situation. The incident sparked a broader conversation about the balance between nostalgia and performance in wrestling. While bringing back legends can be a lucrative draw, it also carries the risk of damaging their legacy if they are unable to perform at a high level. The Super ShowDown match served as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of carefully considering the physical condition and capabilities of wrestlers before booking them in major events. WWE had to do damage control, reassuring fans that they were taking steps to ensure that future events would meet their expectations. This included reevaluating the booking strategies for older wrestlers and focusing on matches that played to their strengths while minimizing the risk of injury or poor performance.
Why It Still Matters Today
Even years later, the Goldberg vs. Undertaker match remains a significant point of discussion in the wrestling world. It serves as a reminder of the risks involved in relying too heavily on nostalgia and the importance of protecting the legacies of legendary performers. The match also highlights the physical demands of professional wrestling and the challenges that wrestlers face as they age. It's a testament to the incredible athleticism and dedication required to perform at a high level, and it underscores the need for careful planning and execution when booking matches.
Moreover, the match sparked important conversations about WWE's booking strategies and its relationship with its older stars. It raised questions about whether the company was prioritizing spectacle over substance and whether it was doing enough to ensure the safety and well-being of its performers. These conversations continue to shape the way WWE operates today, influencing decisions about which wrestlers to bring back for special events and how to structure their matches.
In a way, the Goldberg vs. Undertaker match became a turning point. It forced WWE to reevaluate its approach to nostalgia acts and to place a greater emphasis on match quality and wrestler safety. While the match itself was a failure, it ultimately led to positive changes within the company. It serves as a valuable lesson for both WWE and the wrestling industry as a whole, reminding everyone that the health and well-being of performers should always be the top priority. This match, while disappointing, has contributed to a more thoughtful and strategic approach to wrestling events, emphasizing the importance of balancing spectacle with genuine, high-quality performances.
Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
The Goldberg vs. Undertaker debacle at Super ShowDown teaches several crucial lessons for WWE and the wrestling industry in general. First and foremost, it underscores the importance of realistically assessing the physical capabilities of performers, especially those past their prime. Relying solely on name recognition without considering a wrestler's current condition can lead to disastrous results.
Secondly, it highlights the need for careful match planning and execution. A well-structured match can mask certain limitations and play to a wrestler's strengths, while a poorly planned match can expose weaknesses and increase the risk of injury. In the case of Goldberg vs. Undertaker, the match lacked a clear narrative and was filled with awkward spots, contributing to its overall failure.
Finally, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of listening to fans. The overwhelming negative reaction to the match sent a clear message to WWE that fans value quality and authenticity over mere spectacle. In response, WWE has taken steps to improve its booking strategies, placing a greater emphasis on match quality and wrestler safety.
Moving forward, WWE and other wrestling promotions must strike a better balance between nostalgia and performance. Bringing back legends can be a great way to attract viewers and generate excitement, but it's crucial to ensure that these wrestlers are physically capable of delivering a high-quality performance. This may involve limiting their in-ring time, carefully selecting their opponents, and structuring matches in a way that minimizes the risk of injury. By learning from the mistakes of the past, WWE can create more memorable and enjoyable experiences for its fans while also protecting the legacies of its legendary performers.
So, there you have it, folks! The story of Goldberg vs. The Undertaker at Super ShowDown: a match that promised the world but delivered a whole lot of disappointment. But hey, even in failure, there are lessons to be learned, right? Let's hope WWE keeps those lessons in mind as they continue to bring us the wrestling action we crave!