Bill Goldberg, the powerhouse athlete who transitioned from professional football to wrestling superstardom and later acting, has an estimated net worth of $16 million.
Best known simply as Goldberg, he became one of the most dominant figures in professional wrestling history.
He is one of only a few wrestlers to win world championships in both WCW and WWE, and he famously holds the record for one of the longest undefeated streaks in wrestling history, an astonishing 173 consecutive wins during his WCW run.
While wrestling built his global brand, Goldberg’s fortune comes from multiple revenue streams, including wrestling contracts, Saudi Arabia appearances, acting roles, business ventures, and real estate investments.
Saudi Arabia Payday: $8 Million In Four Matches
In 2023, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter revealed that Goldberg earned $2 million per match for appearances at WWE events in Saudi Arabia.
He reportedly competed in four matches, earning a total of $8 million from those limited appearances alone.
These lucrative international event deals significantly boosted his overall wealth, particularly later in his wrestling career when he was working fewer matches.
Early Life And Football Beginnings
Bill Goldberg was born William Scott Goldberg on December 27, 1966, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Raised in a Jewish household, he is of Russian and Romanian heritage.
His athletic journey began in high school, where he developed a strong interest in football. After graduating from Tulsa Edison High School, Goldberg earned a football scholarship to the University of Georgia, where he played defensive tackle.
At Georgia, he became a standout defensive player and earned recognition in the prestigious Junkyard Dog Club, reserved for elite defensive performers.
NFL And Professional Football Career
In 1990, Goldberg was drafted in the 11th round by the Los Angeles Rams, though he did not make the final roster. He later played for:
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Sacramento Surge (World League of American Football)
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Atlanta Falcons (1992–1994)
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Los Angeles Rams (briefly)
During his time with the Sacramento Surge, he helped the team win the World Bowl in 1992.
Unfortunately, his NFL career was cut short due to a severe abdominal injury that required extensive rehabilitation. That setback ultimately led him toward professional wrestling.
Wrestling Career: From WCW Dominance To WWE Gold
WCW Rise And Undefeated Streak
While recovering from injury, Goldberg began powerlifting and mixed martial arts training. After encouragement from wrestlers Lex Luger and Sting, he joined World Championship Wrestling (WCW).
He debuted in 1997 and quickly gained momentum with a series of short, explosive victories.
His undefeated streak became a major storyline, with WCW officially promoting a 174–0 record (though many believe the numbers were exaggerated).
In 1998, Goldberg:
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Defeated Raven for the United States Heavyweight Championship
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Defeated Hulk Hogan to win the WCW World Heavyweight Championship
At the height of his WCW career, Goldberg was reportedly earning $2.5 million per year, making him one of the company’s highest-paid stars.
WWE Success And Hall Of Fame Induction
After WCW closed, Goldberg briefly wrestled in Japan before signing with WWE in 2003.
Major WWE accomplishments include:
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Winning the World Heavyweight Championship
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Winning the WWE Universal Championship (2017)
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Induction into the WWE Hall of Fame (2018)
He is the only wrestler to have won:
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WCW World Heavyweight Championship
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WWE World Heavyweight Championship
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WWE Universal Championship
His legacy is defined by intensity, explosive matches, and unmatched presence.
Acting And Television Career
Beyond wrestling, Goldberg built a respectable acting resume.
His film and television appearances include:
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Universal Soldier: The Return (1999)
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The Longest Yard (2005)
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Half Past Dead 2 (2007)
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American Satan (2017)
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Host of Forged in Fire: Knife or Death (History Channel)
Though acting is not his primary income source, it has helped expand his brand and diversify his earnings.
Personal Life And Business Ventures
Goldberg married stuntwoman Wanda Ferraton in 2005 after meeting her on a film set. The couple has one son and resides in Texas.
He is also a businessman and co-owns The Extreme Power Gym, a Muay Thai and amateur boxing facility in California.
Car Collection And Animal Advocacy
Goldberg is a serious car enthusiast, owning more than 25 vintage cars. He is also an animal rights advocate and has spoken before the U.S. Congress regarding illegal animal fighting.
He frequently visits children undergoing medical treatment and embraces his role as a positive influence.
Real Estate Portfolio
Goldberg has made strategic real estate investments over the years.
California Property
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Purchased in 1999 for $1 million
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4,600-square-foot home on 17 acres
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20-car garage
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Sold in 2020 for $2.9 million
Texas Ranch
Goldberg currently resides on a 150-acre property in Texas, where he keeps exotic animals including llamas and zebras. The property includes a custom-built, climate-controlled garage to house his car collection.
How Bill Goldberg Built His $16 Million Net Worth
Goldberg’s wealth stems from:
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WCW and WWE contracts
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Saudi Arabia appearance paydays
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Acting roles
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Business ventures
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Real estate appreciation
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Endorsements and appearances
While he never reached billionaire-athlete status, his career longevity and smart financial moves have preserved significant wealth well into retirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long was Goldberg undefeated?
WCW promoted his streak as 173–0, making it one of the longest undefeated runs in wrestling history.
Is Bill Goldberg in the WWE Hall of Fame?
Yes, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2018.
Where does Bill Goldberg live now?
He lives on a 150-acre ranch in Texas.