It’s not just the ribs that will be bringing the heat to the2026 Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest.
Professional wrestling icon Bill Goldberg is slated to appear on Friday, May 15, at Liberty Park, leaving the ring for the smoke pit, connecting generations of fans united by the thrill of competition and the perfect smoked meat.
“Memphis has always been the home of champions, whether it’s in the ring or on the grill,” said Mack Weaver, Memphis in May president and CEO. “Bringing Goldberg to the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is a celebration of that spirit. It’s bold, it’s exciting, and it’s uniquely Memphis.”
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Starting at 2 p.m. May 15, fans can stop by the Patriot Tactical Booth and grab photos and autographs with the WWE Hall of Famer, perhaps best known for his 173-win streak at World Championship Wrestling.
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According to Memphis in May, Goldberg will make many other special appearances throughout the day, blending his larger-than-life persona and star power with one of the city’s most celebrated culinary events.
The Memphis in May barbecue contest is set for May 13-16 at Liberty Park. For more information, visitmemphisinmay.org/barbecue.
Brian Strickland is the Food & Dining reporter at the The Commercial Appeal. Contact him atbrian.strickland@commercialappeal.com.
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This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal:Bill Goldberg coming to Memphis in May BBQ contest. What to know
