As WWE gears up for its first-ever two-night SummerSlam Premium Live Event, one standout SummerSlam WWE Top Star Appearance is generating excitement among fans. Pete Dunne is set to make a significant return to Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport during the SummerSlam weekend, marking a notable moment for wrestling enthusiasts.
Pete Dunne’s Recent WWE and Bloodsport Involvements
Pete Dunne began his WWE career behind the scenes as a producer for NXT UK in 2020 before moving onto producer roles for the main roster, including WWE Speed last year. At 31 years old, Dunne recently competed in several matches, such as a March loss on RAW to The New Day and two victories on Main Event in April and May. Since his late May win over A-Town Down Under, Dunne has not appeared in any WWE matches.
In early 2024, WWE permitted Dunne and other wrestlers to participate in Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XIII in Las Vegas during WrestleMania 41 weekend. This opportunity showcases the collaboration between WWE and Game Changer Wrestling (GCW), which organizes the Bloodsport events.
At Bloodsport XIII, Dunne secured a victory over Timothy Thatcher in the shoot-style competition. The event included other notable matches featuring WWE-affiliated talent such as Karrion Kross, who defeated JR Kratos, and Shayna Baszler, who bested Konami. Natalya also took a win over Miyu Yamashita, highlighting the crossover appeal between WWE and GCW talent.

Details on Bloodsport XIV Featuring WWE Stars
GCW has officially announced Bloodsport XIV will take place on Saturday, August 2, at the William Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey, coinciding with SummerSlam weekend. This event promises several WWE Superstars will compete in the distinctive no-ropes format that Bloodsport is known for.
Previously confirmed participants include Natalya, who will face TNA’s Masha Slamovich, and Charlie Dempsey, continuing his frequent appearances at Bloodsport events. Pete Dunne recently confirmed he will return for Bloodsport XIV, though his opponent remains undisclosed at this time.
Dempsey will mark his fifth Bloodsport appearance during this event. He has a noteworthy history at Bloodsport, including victories over Shinya Aoki and Matt Makowski, a loss to Royce Isaacs, and a win against Tracy Williams last November. His continued presence underscores WWE talent’s growing involvement in this popular shoot-style event.
Significance of Dunne’s Bloodsport Return During SummerSlam
Pete Dunne’s reemergence in Bloodsport during SummerSlam weekend highlights both his versatility and WWE’s collaboration with GCW, blending traditional pro wrestling with shoot-style bouts. This return is likely to draw additional attention to the event and offers fans a unique way to engage with WWE Superstars outside the typical scripted environment.
With Bloodsport XIV set amidst one of WWE’s biggest weekends, Dunne’s participation could signal expanded opportunities for WWE talent to compete in alternative wrestling formats, building anticipation for future crossover events. As the wrestling community watches closely, Dunne’s performance may influence how WWE integrates with the independent wrestling scene moving forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is WrestleMania or SummerSlam bigger?
A. SummerSlam is an annual wrestling show organized since 1988 by WWE, the top professional wrestling company. It’s known as “The Biggest Party of the Summer” and is seen as WWE’s second most important event after WrestleMania.
