The Undertaker!"
Then it began.
The days of the Undertaker began 17 long years ago on November 22nd, 1990, and nobody knew that this unique performer would turn out to be a Wrestling Legend.
A lot of things have changed since 17 years ago when the deadman walked slowly, but surely, to the ring, marking our first glimpse of this interesting character. Wrestling has dramatically changed. The WWE has vastly changed. Many performers have changed.
But, the Undertaker remains always the same...staying true to us.
The Phenom, who has legions of Creatures of the Night following him and praising the talent that is, the Undertaker. Yes, he has slightly altered his appearances, his speech patterns, the entrance, going from having a manager to solo multiple times, and a few minor qualities. However, The Undertaker has gone full circle -- while leaving his true roots always intact.
Nobody really usually remembers who even won the match (which was the Million Dollar Team -- Undertaker's), all they remember is that the 'Taker made his debut, and started his undertaking of the WWE.
Many superstars owe the Undertaker a huge favor to what he did in wrestling. Namely Paul Bearer and Kane. Without the Undertaker, those gimmicks in their respective part of their careers would of not have happened and garnered success like they did. As well, the Undertaker greatly helped the careers of Mick Foley -- as Mankind, Yokozuna, the Great Khali, putting Batista over at a vital part of his career...with others still to be mentioned and with most assumingly, a great deal more to come. Others owe Undertaker a thanks to the great respect he has given them, and the respect he has given to the industry. From a fan's perspective, the Undertaker has given his all throughout the years, and we owe him a great deal of support, and respect, for entertaining us through this decade plus.
17 years, FIVE world titles, 7 tag team titles, a Hardcore Championship, a Royal Rumble victory, accolades & accomplishments, traveling the world around & around countless times, and many injuries later (yes, our Deadman isn't immune from them, as we just recently seen) -- the Undertaker is still going strong...and I may add, better than ever before.
Many think the Undertaker's career is near a end. These rumors have been around for as long as I can remember. No matter what the true answer is, the Undertaker will stay true to his fans, his family, his collegues, and himself. He has given so much to us that we shouldn't give into these rumors. When it is time, there will be no doubt that it will be heartfelt, and a show of dedication to us fans.
Here's to our favorite wrestler...here is to
The Phenom
The Deadman
The Lord of Darkness
Big Evil
The Man from the Darkside
The Concience of the WWE
The Demon from Death Valley
The Undertaker.
Join me in saying thanks for the memories, 'Taker.
Here is to 17 more.
~NS