A highly anticipated showdown is set for Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XIV, scheduled for August 2, 2025, in East Rutherford, New Jersey, just minutes from WWE’s SummerSlam at MetLife Stadium. The event will feature no-holds-barred catch wrestling, with two former WWE World Tag Team Champions, Pete Dunne and Charlie Dempsey, making their debuts in the brutal, submission-based fighting showcase[3][4].

Pete Dunne and Charlie Dempsey Bring WWE Pedigree to Bloodsport XIV

Josh Barnett, the event organizer and former MMA and WWE star, announced on social media that the card will highlight three distinct styles: himself as a catch wrestler, Pete Dunne as the “British Strong Style bruiser,” and Charlie Dempsey as “a total F-ing Maniac.” Barnett’s vivid description promises fans “limbs wrenched, teeth knocked loose, BLOOD on the mats,” setting the tone for an intense, physical night of competition[1][4].

Pete Dunne, a former WWE World Tag Team Champion, is widely known for his technical, hard-hitting style and was a defining presence in WWE’s British Strong Style faction. Dunne steps into the catch wrestling-focused Bloodsport for the first time, bringing his reputation as a fierce competitor who excels in submission grappling and strikes. According to Fightful, Dunne is scheduled to face Jonathan Gresham, an acclaimed technical wrestler noted for his expertise in catch wrestling, in a match already generating buzz among hardcore wrestling fans[1][5].

Charlie Dempsey, also a former WWE World Tag Team Champion, is no stranger to Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport. The 28-year-old made his Bloodsport debut at Bloodsport X, defeating Matt Makowski. Though he suffered a loss at Bloodsport XI, Dempsey returned strong in Bloodsport XII with a win over Tracy Williams. Dempsey’s aggressive maniacal style meshes perfectly with Bloodsport’s intense environment and catch wrestling rules. Unlike Dunne, Dempsey has built a solid independent wrestling career prior to and alongside his WWE tenure, making him a familiar name on the underground fighting circuit[1][4].

Event Lineup Features Top Wrestling Talent

Alongside Dunne and Dempsey, Bloodsport XIV’s card boasts several top-tier competitors:

• Nattie Neidhart vs. Masha Slamovich: Neidhart, a veteran WWE star with deep wrestling heritage, returns with her “Nattie Neidhart” persona, promising a ferocious battle against the powerhouse Slamovich[1][2].

• Timothy Thatcher, Jonathan Gresham, Matt Mako, Dominic Garrini, Nick Comoroto, Simon Gotch, and independent sensation Slade are all set to compete, adding depth and variety to the card[1].

This roster reflects Bloodsport’s unique appeal to fans who seek a gritty, realistic wrestling style blending MMA, submission grappling, and professional wrestling storytelling.

Connection to WWE SummerSlam Weekend Adds Prestige

Bloodsport XIV takes place during one of the biggest wrestling weekends of the year, SummerSlam weekend, capitalizing on the influx of wrestling fans in the New Jersey area. With the proximity to MetLife Stadium, where WWE’s SummerSlam will unfold, Bloodsport offers an alternative for fans craving an edgier, more underground wrestling experience[2].

Natalya Neidhart’s return, in particular, has drawn attention as she has developed her “Lowkey Legend” character outside WWE, which she showcased previously at Bloodsport XIII during WrestleMania weekend with a victory over Miyu Yamashita. Her match against former TNA Knockouts World Champion Masha Slamovich is highly anticipated and has been promoted extensively on social media[2].

Inside Sources and Industry Buzz

According to insiders familiar with WWE and the independent wrestling scene, the participation of Dunne and Dempsey signals a growing bridge between WWE talent and the rising popularity of catch wrestling shows like Bloodsport. Fightful reported that WWE superstars have increasingly sought to diversify their in-ring styles by participating in events outside WWE’s scripted format, with Bloodsport’s realistic submission rules providing a new proving ground.

A WWE insider explained: “Pete and Charlie want to challenge themselves beyond WWE’s typical wrestling style. Bloodsport is where technique meets toughness, and it’s a perfect fit for wrestlers who want to push their limits and connect with a different fanbase.”

Josh Barnett’s promotion has grown steadily, now considered one of the premier platforms for catch wrestling and hybrid MMA/wrestling matches. The event is known for its no-disqualification rules, absence of ropes and turnbuckles, and fights won only by knockout or submission — elements that set it apart from traditional pro wrestling[1][4].

Why Bloodsport Matters in 2025’s Wrestling Landscape

The competitive landscape of professional wrestling continues to diversify in 2025, with promotions like AEW, WWE, NJPW, and independent circuits innovating their product. Bloodsport serves as a niche yet influential platform, emphasizing grounded, physical storytelling that appeals to fans who crave authenticity.

By featuring former WWE World Tag Team Champions, Bloodsport XIV highlights the growing crossover potential between mainstream wrestling stars and alternative, submission-based contests. The event’s success may pave the way for further collaborations, increased visibility for catch wrestling, and expanded opportunities for wrestlers seeking to refine their craft outside WWE’s creative constraints.

Details and Tickets

Bloodsport XIV will take place on August 2 at The Williams Center in Rutherford, New Jersey. Tickets remain available and are expected to sell quickly, given the high-profile talent involved and the proximity to WWE’s SummerSlam weekend.

Fans can expect a night filled with intense, hard-hitting matches that blend technical prowess and brutal physicality. As Josh Barnett’s social media boldly proclaims: “Limbs wrenched, teeth knocked loose, BLOOD on the mats” — a promise Bloodsport faithful will eagerly anticipate[1][4].

Article by [Your Name], professional wrestling journalist. Sources include WWE.com, Fightful, Wrestling Inc., Sportskeeda, and insider reports.