Josh Barnett has revealed how he was able to secure Shayna Baszler for an appearance at the GCW event Bloodsport, which will be happening over WrestleMania weekend.
Hosting its 10th event in Philadelphia on April 4th, the unique wrestling event sees competitors face off in matches that can only be won via knockout or submission, similar to that of MMA. Additionally, fighters compete in a ring that has no ropes or turnbuckles.
With stars such as Jon Moxley and Minoru Suzuki being previously announced for the event, many were shocked on March 15th when Baszler was confirmed to be competing at Bloodsport X. While promotions such as AEW and TNA have been willing to allow talent to work indie dates on top of their own contracted shows, WWE has a long history of not letting their talent appear in other promotions except for extremely extenuating circumstances.
While appearing on the Under the Ring podcast, promoter Josh Barnett detailed the relationship he has with WWE and how that factored in to making the appearance possible:
“I guess the easiest way to describe it is just through my relationships with people there [WWE]. That’s really what it comes down to. And with anybody, when speaking of a promotion, you’re always going to want, If you’re going to do anything outside of it, you want a certain level of trust and consideration given to you. And it’s hard to lend your toys out when there’s so much money put into them and the product itself.
In general, of course, we see cross-promotion happening out there in the world of wrestling, but it’s really a big deal when you think about all the different things involved with it and the value of some of the athletes that are going back and forth. But fortunately, through relationships I’ve cultivated over the years, something like having Shayna Baszler at GCW Bloodsport is – it’s a reality now. And I’m just super happy and honored to be able to do it. And I know that Shayna’s going to do fantastic. I should know, I’ve been training her [for] her entire career.”
At the time of writing, Shayna Baszler has not been announced for a match at WrestleMania 40.
Who Is Shayna Baszler Facing At Bloodsport X?
Baszler was originally due to face TNA star Masha Slamovich in the tournament. However, due to Slamovich exiting Bloodsport, Baszler’s opponent will now be Janai Kai, who currently reigns as MLW World Women’s Featherweight Champion.
H/t to F4WOnline.
Featured image: WWE
