Goldberg vs. Lesnar: Reliving the Wrestlemania 33 Showdown and Its Impact

Nov 7, 2025 by pinkandtrash.com 80 views

Goldberg vs. Lesnar: Reliving the Wrestlemania 33 Showdown and Its Impact

The clash between Goldberg and Brock Lesnar at Wrestlemania 33 remains a pivotal moment in WWE history. This wasn’t just another match; it was the culmination of a rivalry reborn, a clash of titans that captivated audiences worldwide, and a significant chapter in the legacies of both wrestling icons. This article delves deep into the build-up, the electrifying encounter itself, and the reverberating impact this showdown had on the wrestling landscape. From the shocking squash match at Survivor Series to the intense Royal Rumble confrontation and the explosive Wrestlemania main event, we dissect every element that made Goldberg vs. Lesnar at Wrestlemania 33 a spectacle to remember. This rivalry, fueled by genuine animosity and respect, transcended the typical wrestling storyline, offering fans a genuine sense of anticipation and unpredictability. It was a collision of two distinct eras, a testament to the enduring power of both Goldberg’s dominant persona and Lesnar’s brute force. The impact of this feud extended beyond the squared circle, influencing booking decisions, shaping character arcs, and contributing to a renewed interest in established stars within the WWE. Consider how the surprising results of their matches influenced the direction of the Universal Championship and subsequent storylines. From title changes to shifting power dynamics, the Goldberg-Lesnar saga left an indelible mark on the company’s narrative. Furthermore, exploring the fan reaction to this feud provides valuable insight into the evolving tastes and expectations of the modern wrestling audience. Were fans drawn to the nostalgia factor, the intensity of the competition, or the unpredictable nature of the outcomes? Understanding these factors is essential for appreciating the full scope of this rivalry’s significance. The Goldberg vs. Lesnar Wrestlemania 33 match serves as a case study in effective storytelling, strategic booking, and the enduring appeal of larger-than-life characters in professional wrestling. Let’s embark on a journey to relive this unforgettable moment in wrestling history.

The Road to Wrestlemania: A Collision Course

Before Wrestlemania 33, the Goldberg and Lesnar feud was already a highlight. Their history dated back to Wrestlemania XX in 2004, a match famously marred by negative fan reaction due to both wrestlers’ impending departures from WWE. However, their paths would cross again over a decade later, reigniting a rivalry that would redefine their careers. The catalyst for this renewed animosity was Goldberg’s return to WWE in 2016 after a twelve-year absence. Initially intended as a one-off match to promote the WWE 2K17 video game, Goldberg’s dominant victory over Lesnar at Survivor Series sent shockwaves through the wrestling world. This wasn’t just a win; it was a complete annihilation, a squash match that left fans stunned and hungry for more. The brevity and decisiveness of the victory instantly elevated Goldberg back to the main event scene and positioned him as a legitimate threat to Lesnar’s aura of invincibility. Following the Survivor Series shocker, Goldberg entered the Royal Rumble match in 2017, where he once again confronted Lesnar, eliminating him from the match. This further fueled the rivalry, establishing Goldberg as a persistent thorn in Lesnar’s side. The Royal Rumble encounter served as a crucial stepping stone towards their inevitable Wrestlemania showdown, solidifying the narrative that Goldberg held a psychological edge over Lesnar. The build-up continued on Monday Night Raw, with both wrestlers engaging in intense promos and physical confrontations. Lesnar, fueled by vengeance and a desire to reclaim his dominance, sought to dismantle Goldberg and prove that Survivor Series was merely a fluke. Goldberg, on the other hand, embraced his role as the dominant force, vowing to repeat his victory and solidify his legacy as one of the most formidable wrestlers in history. The tension between the two reached a fever pitch in the weeks leading up to Wrestlemania, culminating in a final showdown on Raw where Lesnar delivered a series of devastating F5s, sending a clear message of intent. This final confrontation set the stage for their highly anticipated Wrestlemania match, promising a brutal and unforgettable encounter. The storyline effectively capitalized on the history between the two, building anticipation and creating a sense of genuine stakes for their upcoming clash. This meticulously crafted build-up was a crucial element in the success of their Wrestlemania 33 encounter.

Wrestlemania 33: A Clash of Titans

Wrestlemania 33 finally arrived, and the anticipation surrounding Goldberg vs. Lesnar was palpable. The match was for the WWE Universal Championship, adding even more weight to the contest. From the moment both wrestlers made their entrances, the atmosphere in the Camping World Stadium was electric. Goldberg, the reigning champion, entered with his signature pyro and intensity, while Lesnar, accompanied by Paul Heyman, exuded an aura of controlled aggression. The match started at a blistering pace, with Goldberg immediately unleashing a series of spears on Lesnar. The crowd erupted with each impact, reliving the magic of Goldberg’s previous dominant performances. However, Lesnar weathered the storm, absorbing the punishment and biding his time. After absorbing three spears, Lesnar managed to avoid a fourth, sending Goldberg crashing into the turnbuckle. This marked a turning point in the match. Lesnar capitalized on Goldberg’s vulnerability, unleashing a barrage of German suplexes, a signature move that has become synonymous with his dominance. Suplex City, as it is often called, was in full effect, with Lesnar delivering ten consecutive German suplexes to Goldberg. The crowd chanted along with each suplex, fully invested in the brutal exchange. Goldberg, despite the punishment, showed incredible resilience, attempting to fight back and regain control. However, Lesnar’s relentless assault proved too much to overcome. After the tenth German suplex, Lesnar finally delivered the decisive blow: an F5. Goldberg was unable to recover, and Lesnar pinned him to win the WWE Universal Championship. The match, while relatively short, was a non-stop thrill ride, packed with impactful moves and dramatic moments. It was a stark contrast to their previous encounter at Survivor Series, showcasing Lesnar’s ability to adapt and overcome his opponent. The result was a significant victory for Lesnar, re-establishing his dominance and solidifying his status as one of the top stars in WWE. For Goldberg, it marked the end of his impressive comeback run, a run that reminded fans of his undeniable charisma and in-ring prowess. The Wrestlemania 33 match was a fitting conclusion to their renewed rivalry, providing a definitive outcome and a memorable moment for both wrestlers and the fans.

The Aftermath and Lasting Impact

The Wrestlemania 33 match between Goldberg and Lesnar had a ripple effect throughout WWE. Lesnar’s victory cemented his status as the top champion on Monday Night Raw, leading to a lengthy and dominant reign with the Universal Championship. His championship reign became a defining characteristic of his second run with the company, characterized by infrequent appearances and dominant performances. The victory over Goldberg served as a launchpad for Lesnar’s continued reign of terror, solidifying his position as a seemingly unstoppable force. For Goldberg, the loss marked the end of his most recent run with WWE. While he would make sporadic appearances in the years that followed, his Wrestlemania 33 match with Lesnar served as a fitting conclusion to his impressive comeback. He proved that he could still compete at the highest level, reminding fans of the charisma and intensity that made him a star in the first place. Beyond the immediate aftermath, the Goldberg vs. Lesnar feud had a significant impact on WWE’s booking philosophy. It demonstrated the drawing power of established stars and the value of revisiting classic rivalries. The success of their feud paved the way for other part-time wrestlers to return and compete in high-profile matches, contributing to a renewed focus on nostalgia and star power within the company. The feud also highlighted the importance of effective storytelling and character development. The genuine animosity and respect between Goldberg and Lesnar resonated with fans, making their matches feel more significant and engaging. The build-up, the intensity, and the unpredictable nature of their encounters all contributed to the success of their rivalry. Furthermore, the Goldberg vs. Lesnar feud influenced the perception of both wrestlers. It helped to redefine Lesnar as a calculating and resilient force, capable of overcoming any opponent. It also solidified Goldberg’s legacy as one of the most dominant and impactful wrestlers of all time. The impact of this rivalry can still be felt in WWE today. It serves as a reminder of the drawing power of established stars, the importance of effective storytelling, and the enduring appeal of classic rivalries. The Wrestlemania 33 match between Goldberg and Lesnar will forever be remembered as a pivotal moment in WWE history, a clash of titans that left an indelible mark on the wrestling landscape.

Conclusion: A Legacy Forged in the Ring

The Goldberg vs. Lesnar rivalry, culminating in their Wrestlemania 33 showdown, transcends the realm of mere wrestling entertainment. It was a masterclass in storytelling, a testament to the enduring appeal of larger-than-life characters, and a significant chapter in the legacies of two wrestling icons. From the shocking upset at Survivor Series to the brutal clash at Wrestlemania, their feud captivated audiences and left an indelible mark on WWE history. The impact of their rivalry extended beyond the squared circle, influencing booking decisions, shaping character arcs, and contributing to a renewed interest in established stars. Goldberg’s return to WWE and his subsequent rivalry with Lesnar served as a reminder of the power of nostalgia and the importance of connecting with the past. The feud also highlighted the evolving tastes and expectations of the modern wrestling audience, demonstrating the value of genuine animosity, unpredictable outcomes, and high-impact action. The Wrestlemania 33 match was a fitting conclusion to their renewed rivalry, providing a definitive outcome and a memorable moment for both wrestlers and the fans. Lesnar’s victory cemented his status as a top champion, while Goldberg’s performance solidified his legacy as one of the most dominant and impactful wrestlers of all time. In conclusion, the Goldberg vs. Lesnar Wrestlemania 33 showdown was more than just a match; it was a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate with wrestling fans around the world. Its legacy serves as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, the charisma of its performers, and the unpredictable nature of professional wrestling.