Two of professional wrestling’s most skilled grapplers, WWE’s Pete Dunne and independent standout Jonathan Gresham, are set to collide at Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XIV on August 2, 2025, during SummerSlam weekend. The highly anticipated match was confirmed by MMA legend and Bloodsport promoter Josh Barnett, raising significant intrigue among wrestling and combat sports fans alike[1][3][5].

Bloodsport XIV takes place at The Williams Center in Rutherford, New Jersey, and will stream live on TrillerTV+. The event combines pro wrestling with strong style and shoot-style influences, focusing on submission-based, hard-hitting matches without traditional wrestling ropes. This unique format has garnered a dedicated fanbase, emphasizing pure grappling and real combat feel[1][2].

The Matchup: Dunne vs. Gresham

Pete Dunne, currently signed with WWE, is known for his brutal and technically proficient style, combining joint manipulation with fierce striking. Dunne boasts a 1-0 record in previous Bloodsport competitions and is recognized as one of WWE’s premiere grapplers, often showcasing a blend of MMA training and submission expertise. Despite primarily appearing on WWE shows, sources reveal Dunne remains eager to compete in outside events like Bloodsport to test his skills against top independent talent[1][2].

Jonathan Gresham, an acclaimed independent wrestler and free agent, is praised for his impeccable mat work and submission prowess. Gresham’s previous Bloodsport outings have been challenging, holding an 0-2 record in the competition, but his technical mastery and stiff in-ring style make him a formidable adversary. The July 29 announcement noted that Dunne and Gresham last squared off in 2018 under PROGRESS Wrestling, marking this encounter as a thrilling rematch opportunity[2].

Josh Barnett hailed the bout on social media, describing the clash as “Two of Pro Wrestling’s most dangerous grapplers… refined in skills and holds but possessing the blunt viciousness needed when skill is not enough.” He emphasized the intensity expected when the two meet in the ring[3].

Bloodsport XIV Card Highlights

In addition to Dunne vs. Gresham, the Bloodsport XIV card features other notable matchups:

• Nattie Neidhart (1-0) vs. Masha Slamovich (3-3), a compelling women’s grappling contest pitting WWE’s Neidhart against independent star Slamovich.
• Jordan Blade vs. Janai Kai, showcasing two rising talents in the submission wrestling sphere.
• Dominic Garrini, Matt Mako, Simon Gotch, Nick Comoroto, Timothy Thatcher, Charlie Dempsey, and SLADE round out the roster with their diverse styles and records, promising a dynamic event[1].

Significance Amid SummerSlam Weekend

Bloodsport XIV’s timing during WWE SummerSlam weekend enhances its profile, capturing viewers’ attention from the pro wrestling capital and giving fans an alternative grappling-centric showcase. According to WWE.com and Fightful reports, Dunne’s involvement in an outside event during key WWE programming highlights his unique position as a versatile performer willing to embrace diverse ring styles[2][5].

Industry insiders speculate that engagements like Bloodsport also allow WWE talent such as Dunne to sharpen skills and expand their fanbase beyond WWE’s landscape. A WWE insider close to Dunne told Fightful, “Pete sees Bloodsport as a pure test of his craft—no frills, only skill and grit. It’s a challenge he welcomes, especially against someone as technically gifted as Jonathan”[2].

Historical Context and Fan Expectations

Fans and analysts have long admired both Dunne and Gresham for their submission artistry and stiff striking — attributes that fit perfectly within Bloodsport’s shoot-style ethos. Their 2018 PROGRESS Wrestling match remains a memorable contest celebrated for its technical depth, making their rematch one of the most anticipated independent wrestling matches of the summer[2].

Bloodsport’s emphasis on realism and grappling intensity makes it the ideal setting for this bout, giving both competitors a platform to showcase their full arsenal without traditional pro wrestling theatrics. The lack of ropes and emphasis on submissions should highlight their skills in a raw, competitive environment that appeals to wrestling purists[1][3].

What to Watch For

• Technical prowess vs. determination: Dunne’s blend of MMA conditioning and ruthless strikes versus Gresham’s meticulous submission setups.
• Psychological warfare: How each competitor adjusts strategy in a no-rope environment at Bloodsport.
• Impact on future bookings: A win here could raise either wrestler’s profile for future crossover opportunities, including potential bookings in major promotions or additional Bloodsport events.

Fans can view Bloodsport XIV live on TrillerTV+ starting August 2, making it accessible worldwide.

Additional Context

Alongside Dunne’s Bloodsport appearance, WWE programming during SummerSlam weekend continues featuring key storylines, giving wrestling viewers a weekend full of compelling content. Eyes will be on Dunne’s performance as he returns to an independent-style setting after wrestling on WWE’s Main Event taping earlier in May. His Bloodsport bout may serve as a significant moment in broadening his in-ring legacy beyond WWE[1][2].

Conclusion

The official announcement of Pete Dunne vs. Jonathan Gresham at Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XIV has generated buzz among wrestling and MMA fans, promising a hard-hitting, submission-filled encounter during one of wrestling’s biggest weekends. With two of the industry’s top grappling technicians set to go head-to-head at The Williams Center, this independent wrestling event is shaping up to be a must-watch highlight of SummerSlam weekend.

As Fightful and other sources report, fans eager to witness high-caliber technical wrestling in a shoot-style environment should look no further than Bloodsport XIV on August 2, where Pete Dunne and Jonathan Gresham will strive to prove who truly reigns supreme in this intense grappling duel[2][3][5].