In an unexpected announcement over WrestleMania weekend, Josh Barnett announced following the conclusion of Bloodsport XV in Las Vegas that Bloodsport is happening an indefinite hiatus. The clip of Barnett speaking made its way around social media, including a post from Fightful. Within the clip, Barnett said that it had been a “hell of a ride” they usually had done quite a lot of things through the years.
“We have done some amazing things, but for now, this door is closing,” Barnett said, to an audible shocked response from the gang. “I’m shutting shop. I’m calling it a day while we still have our pride, our integrity. Whilst you still love what we do and all the pieces that we have done.”
Barnett said that he has his reasons, but didn’t address them immediately. He said he’s had the best people behind him, and commended GCW’s Brett Lauderdale for all the pieces he’s done for the fans.
“I’m not saying that is being shoveled six feet under with a gravestone, but I’m ending this for a foreseeable future,” he said.
He thanked the fans from the underside of his heart for all of their support through the years. Barnett also thanked all of the wrestlers involved, and walked away to applause after the initial crowd boos on the reveal.
The ultimate Bloodsport event for now was headlined by the previous UFC Heavyweight Champion, who took on NJPW’s Yuji Nagata. The event began under Matt Riddle in 2018 before Barnett took over.
Bloodsport has seen talent from across the wrestling world participate, including WWE stars like Natalya, Charlie Dempsey, and Pete Dunne. Gabe Kidd, Zack Sabre Jr., Josh Alexander, Homicide, Jon Moxley, Mike Santana, and more have all fought at Bloodsport events.