10 WWE Disasters That Saved Themselves
3. Goldberg
It can't be overstated just how harmful Goldberg's original WWE run could have been to his lasting wrestling legacy.
His Rock-baiting debut was as awesome as his WrestleMania XX departure was humiliating, with the infamous Brock Lesnar stallfest still mentioned amongst the 'Show of Shows'' most boring bouts. Goldberg left WWE on a career low. While much of this was down to the way he'd been presented, this failed run solidified the cynical opinion that WCW had captured lightning in a bottle with him, that he was never any good, and most significant of all, that he couldn't cut it on Vince McMahon's watch.
This take became increasingly popular over time. It would have become Goldberg's legacy had he not returned in 2016.
While the comeback wasn't without its bumps, that its highlights drew so much acclaim and attention helped redefine the former WCW Champion. Goldberg understood its importance more than anyone. He poured everything he had into making it work, and he couldn't have asked for a more fitting finale than WrestleMania 33's ballistic rematch with Lesnar which not only ensured he signed off in style, but helped cement him as a big, big star.