Chicago Sun-Times: Austin holds key to Goldberg's future

It has been well documented that Bill Goldberg is unhappy in the WWE and is looking to end his run with the company following "WrestleMania." However, as Mania approaches, it sounds like Goldberg could be rethinking his decision and just might be hanging around a few more months.

When it was announced Stone Cold would be the guest referee for the Goldberg/Brock Lesnar match, it became clear Austin will be out to screw over Lesnar. But if Austin interferes and costs Lesnar the match, then Goldberg will pick up a big win on his way out the door - - and that makes no sense. If Lesnar was to pick up a clean win over Goldberg, there would be no need for Austin to get involved. So, the only way this makes sense is for Austin to screw over Goldberg and begin a feud that could carry the WWE for the summer.

After all, when Goldberg was making his name in the WCW, it was during the height of Austin's popularity. Fans were salivating over a Goldberg vs. Austin confrontation as Goldberg was a clear ripoff of the Austin character. Given his injuries, there is no way Austin would have a match with Goldberg, but they could put on some good TV for a few months. The WWE needs to keep Goldberg on board; let's hope it finds a way between now and "WrestleMania."

AROUND THE RING: Other "WrestleMania" matches include Kane vs. the Undertaker; Eddie Guerrero defending the "SmackDown" belt vs. Kurt Angle; HHH, HBK and Chris Benoit meeting in the first-ever Mania three-way dance for the "Raw" title; Torrie Wilson and Sable vs. Stacy Keibler and Jackie Gayda; and Mick Foley vs. Evolution is some form. ... Lex Luger made his wrestling return last week with a surprise appearance at the NWA-TNA show.

HOTLINE: NWA backstage troubles and the latest scoop on WWE Hall of Fame inductees -- call (900) 990-SLAM ($2 per minute).