Josh Barnett Explains How He Was Able To Book Shayna Baszler For Bloodsport X

Josh Barnett was able to use his established relationships to book Shayna Baszler.

As previously noted, WWE star Shayna Baszler will compete against TNA Knockout Masha Slamovich at GCW/Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport X during WrestleMania 40 weekend in Philadelphia. The announcement came as a huge surprise to the pro wrestling industry as WWE stars rarely appear or compete outside of the company.

Barnett recently appeared on Under The Ring to discuss how Baszler’s participation came about.

“I guess the easiest way to describe it is just through my relationships with people there,” Barnett said. “That’s really what it comes down to. With anybody, when speaking with a promotion, you’re always going to want a — If you’re going to do anything outside of it, you want a certain level of trust and consideration given to you, and it’s hard to lend your toys out when there’s so much money put into them and the product itself.

“Of course, we see cross-promotion happening out there in the world of wrestling, but it’s really a big deal when you think about all the different things involved in it and the value of some of the athletes that are going back and forth. But fortunately, through relationships I’ve cultivated over the years, something like having Shayna Baszler at GCW Bloodsport is — it’s a reality now.”

Barnett noted that he’s super happy and honored to have Baszler involved. He’s also confident she’ll do “fantastic” because he’s been training her for her entire career.

Baszler vs. Slamovich at Bloodsport X will take place on Thursday, April 4.

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit Under The Ring with a h/t to WrestleZone for the transcription.