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| {{About|the professional wrestler||Undertaker (disambiguation)}} | |||
| {{Use mdy dates|date=August 2015}} | |||
| {{Infobox professional wrestler | |||
| |name = The Undertaker | |||
| |birthname = Mark William Calaway | |||
| |names = The Commando<ref name="cagematch.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=761 |title=Undertaker |website=Cagematch.net |access-date=22 February 2013}}</ref><ref name=OWWprofile /><br /> Cain the Undertaker<ref>{{cite episode |date=19 November 1990 |series=WWF Superstars of Wrestling}}</ref><br />Mark Callous<br />Mean Mark<ref>{{cite episode |series=WCW/NWA Power Hour |date=1989 |title=Mean Mark Vs Road Warrior Animal}}</ref><br />The Master of Pain<br />Dice Morgan<br />The Punisher<br />Texas Red<br />'''The Undertaker''' | |||
| |image = The Undertaker April 2014.jpg | |||
| |image_size = | |||
| |caption = Calaway in April 2014 | |||
| |height = {{height|ft=6|in=10}}<ref name="WWEProfile" /> | |||
| |weight = {{convert|299|lb|kg|abbr=on}}<ref name="WWEProfile" /> | |||
| |birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1965|3|24|}} | |||
| |birth_place = ], ], ] | |||
| |resides = ], ], ] | |||
| |billed = Houston, Texas<br />''']'''<ref name="WWEProfile" /> | |||
| |trainer = ]<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| |debut = 1984<ref name="accelerator" /> | |||
| |retired = | |||
| |spouse = {{marriage|Jodi Lynn|1989|1999|reason=divorced}}<br />{{marriage|Sara Frank|2000|2007|reason=divorced}}<br />{{marriage|]|2010}} | |||
| |children = 4 | |||
| }} | |||
| '''Mark William Calaway''' (born March 24, 1965),<ref name="birth">{{cite web|url=http://www.familytreelegends.com/records/txbirths?c=search&first=Mark&last=Calaway&spelling=Exact&11_year=1965&11_month=0&11_day=0&4=&14=&SubmitSearch.x=67&SubmitSearch.y=19&SubmitSearch=Submit|title=Texas Births 1926–1995|publisher="Family Tree Legends"}}</ref> better known by his ] '''The Undertaker''', is an American ] and ]. He is currently signed to ], where he has worked since 1990, making him the company's longest tenured in-ring performer. Calaway began his wrestling career with ] (WCCW) in 1984. After wrestling for ] (WCW) as '''"Mean" Mark Callous''' from 1989 to 1990, he signed with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) in 1990. | |||
| As The Undertaker, his ] is a ]-themed, dynamically dark, ] entity who employs ] and holds links to the ]. He has won the ''Wrestling Observer Newsletter'' "Best Gimmick" award, a record five times.{{Citation needed|date=February 2016}} The Undertaker is the storyline half-brother of fellow WWE wrestler ], with whom he has alternately ] and ] with as ]. Since unseating ] as WWF Champion in 1991, The Undertaker has been involved in various pivotal storylines and matches within WWE history.<ref name="WWEProfile" /> | |||
| The Undertaker is well known for ], an unprecedented run of 21 straight victories at WWE's leading ] (PPV), ] (including main event bouts at ], ], and ]); he sustained his first loss at ] to ].<ref name=WrestlemaniaStreakPlaylist>{{cite web|title=Undertaker's Wrestlemania streak playlist|url=http://www.wwe.com/videos/playlists/undertaker-wrestlemania-streak-playlist}}</ref> He was also winner of the ] ] and in doing so, became the first man to enter the event last and win. Among other championships, Calaway is an eight-time ], having held the WWF/E Championship ], the ] ] and the ] ]. | |||
| The Undertaker has ] within pro wrestling, being regarded by fellow WWE personnel and fans as one of the best performers of all time.<ref name="ign"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/15-greatest-superstars-smackdown-history/page-15|title=15 greatest Superstars in SmackDown history|work=WWE}}</ref> In 2015, '']'' journalist Tom Fordy wrote an article calling The Undertaker "the world's greatest sportsman".<ref>http://www.telegraph.co.uk/men/the-filter/why-the-undertaker-is-the-worlds-greatest-sportsman/</ref> | |||
| == Early life == | |||
| Calaway was born in ], ], the son of Frank Compton Calaway (died July 22, 2003) and Betty Catherine Truby. He has four older brothers: David, Michael, Paul, and Timothy. He graduated from ] in 1983, where he was a member of the basketball team.<ref name=HS>{{cite web|url=http://hs.houstonisd.org/WaltripHS/TriviaFolder/trivia.htm|title=Waltrip trivia page|publisher=]}}</ref> He also played college basketball at ] during the 1985{{ndash}}1986 season.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ramsports.net/documents/2011/12/12/2011-12_TWU_MBB_Media_Guide.pdf?id=528|title=2011–12 Texas Wesleyan Rams media guide, page 25|publisher=]}}</ref> | |||
| == Professional wrestling career == | |||
| === Early career (1984–1989) === | |||
| Mark Calaway made his debut in 1984 for ] (WCCW) under the ring name '''Texas Red'''.<ref name="accelerator">{{cite web|title=Bio|publisher=Accelerator|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/undertaker.html|accessdate=May 6, 2008}}</ref> His first match was a loss against ].<ref name="accelerator" /> In 1988, after four years in the promotion, he left and joined the ] (which became part of the ] after ] bought WCCW and merged the two organizations into one), wrestling under several ]. | |||
| On February 2, 1989, managed by ], he debuted as '''The Master of Pain''', a character fresh out of the Atlanta State Penitentiary after serving five years (much in solitary confinement) for killing two men in a fight.{{citation needed|date=September 2015}} After his second match the next week, he stayed in the ring, challenging ] ] to an impromptu match. The Master of Pain easily dominated Lawler until Mantell entered the ring and called him off. Lawler agreed to a title match, and on April 1, The Master of Pain won the title. He held it for just over three weeks before Lawler became the first man to pin him, winning it back. | |||
| While performing as '''The Punisher''', Calaway won the ] on October 5, 1989, when ] forfeited the title.<ref name="wcwa">{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestling-titles.com/us/tx/tx-h.html|title=Texas Heavyweight Title history|publisher=Wrestling-Titles.com|accessdate=April 9, 2008}}</ref> | |||
| === World Championship Wrestling (1989–1990) === | |||
| In 1989, Calaway joined ] (WCW) as a villain and adopted the ring name '''Mean Mark Callous''', a name devised for him by ].<ref name=FunkAutobiography>{{cite book|last1=Funk|first1=Terry|authorlink1=Terry Funk|last2=Williams |first2=Scott |title=Terry Funk : more than just hardcore|year=2006|publisher=Sports Publishing|location=Champaign, IL|isbn=1-59670-159-5|page=198}}</ref> He was portrayed as a morbid character; he wore predominantly black ring attire and was described by announcer ] as having a fondness for pet snakes and the music of ].<ref>''WCW/NWA Capital Combat'' (VHS). ]. 1990.</ref> Callous was promptly drafted into ] tag team to replace an injured ], and he made his debut on January 3, 1990 in a match later televised against Agent Steel & Randy Harris.<ref name="thehistoryofwwe.com">http://www.thehistoryofwwe.com/wcw90.htm</ref> The new team gained some notoriety at ] when they beat down ] after their match.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/supercards/usa/wcw/clash.html#X | title = NWA Clash of the Champions Results (X) | accessdate = April 16, 2007 | author = prowrestlinghistory.com}}</ref> However, Callous' partner ] left WCW days before their ] against the Warriors at ]. Callous and ] were defeated in the Street Fight, and the team broke up soon afterwards.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/supercards/usa/wcw/w-war.html#90 | title = NWA WrestleWar Results (1990) | accessdate = April 16, 2007 | author = prowrestlinghistory.com}}</ref> Callous took on the guidance of ] and defeated ] at ] and defeated ] at the ] in singles competition. In July 1990, he wrestled against ] for the ] at ], but was pinned by Luger. He gave notice to WCW on August 27.<ref name="thehistoryofwwe.com" /> His final match was on September 7 at a '']'' taping in Amarillo, TX where he defeated Dave Johnson. | |||
| During his time in WCW, Calaway briefly wrestled in ] as '''Punisher Dice Morgan'''. After leaving WCW, he briefly returned to the USWA to participate in a tournament to determine the new USWA Unified World Heavyweight Champion; he defeated ] in the first round, but lost to Jerry Lawler in the quarterfinals. In October 1990, he signed with the ] (WWF). | |||
| === World Wrestling Federation/Entertainment/WWE === | |||
| ==== Western Mortician (1990–1994) ==== | |||
| Calaway made his WWF debut as '''Kane the Undertaker''' at a taping of '']'' on November 19, 1990. His original version of the Deadman depicted him in a ], gray-striped tie, and gray-ringed, black ] with gray gloves and ]. He was portrayed as impervious to pain, something accomplished by Calaway ] his opponents' attacks. Calaway made his official on-camera debut on November 22 at ] as a ] when he was the mystery partner of ]'s Million Dollar team.<ref he had a feud with Tyler breeze name=pwi89>2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards", p. 88–89.</ref> Approximately one minute into the match, the Undertaker eliminated ] with his finisher, the '']''. He also eliminated ] before being counted out, however, his team won the match with DiBiase being the sole survivor. During the match, Calaway was referred to as the Undertaker, neglecting the Kane name, which was dropped shortly after the event. At the same time, the Undertaker switched managers from ] to ] — a ], ]ly character, almost always seen bearing an ], which he used to revive the Undertaker's strength whenever Undertaker fell victim to his antagonists. Undertaker placed his defeated opponents (almost always ]) in a ] and carried them to the back.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://prowrestling.about.com/od/thewrestlers/tp/scarywrestlers.htm|title=About.com: Top 10 Scariest Wrestlers|publisher=Prowrestling.about.com|date=September 24, 2010|accessdate=October 24, 2011}}</ref> | |||
| He made his ] debut at ], quickly defeating ].<ref name=legacy>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/superstars/smackdown/undertaker/wrestlemanialegacy/|title=WrestleMania Legacy|accessdate=July 10, 2008|publisher=]}}</ref> He began his first major ] with ], when he attacked the Warrior and locked him in an airtight ] on the set of Paul Bearer's ''Funeral Parlor'' interview segment. He defeated ] to win his first ] at ] with the help of ], and thus became the youngest WWF Champion in history until having this record broken by ] in April 1993 at ].<ref name=pwi90>PWI Staff. 2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards", p. 89–90.</ref> WWF President ] ordered a rematch for ] six days later, where the Undertaker lost the title back to Hogan.<ref name=pwi90 /> However, due to the controversial ends to the two title matches between the Undertaker and Hogan the title was vacated by Tunney. The title was awarded to Ric Flair as the winner of the 1992 ] match. | |||
| In February 1992, the Undertaker's ally ] tried to attack Randy Savage's manager/wife ] with a steel chair when the Undertaker stopped him, becoming a ] for the first time. On the February 29, 1992 episode of ''WWF Superstars of Wrestling'', Roberts confronted the Undertaker on the "Funeral Parlor" set over that incident (aired on '']''). After demanding to know whose side the Undertaker was on and getting the reply "Not yours!", Roberts attacked both Bearer and the Undertaker, only for the Undertaker to stand his ground and run Roberts off. The Undertaker defeated Roberts at ].<ref name=legacy /> He then feuded extensively with wrestlers managed by ] throughout 1992 and 1993, such as ], ] and ]. Also in this time he headlined the first episode of '']'' on January 11, 1993 with a victory over ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/_1993/|title=Raw 1993 results|accessdate=December 7, 2011|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> He faced González at ], which is notable as Undertaker's only disqualification win at WrestleMania after the use of ]. His rivalry with Yokozuna culminated in a WWF Championship casket match at the ]. During the match, champion Yokozuna sealed the Undertaker in the casket with the assistance of several other ] Wippleman-managed wrestlers to win the match. The Undertaker appeared from inside the casket on the video screen, representing his spirit, warning that he would return.<ref name=pwi92>PWI Staff. 2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards", p. 92–94.</ref> The Undertaker did not appear in the WWF for seven months after his loss to Yokozuna. In reality, he was given time off to allow a back injury to heal.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://grantland.com/features/wwe-summerslam-john-cena-brock-lesnar-pay-per-view/|title=What’s at Stake When John Cena Wrestles Brock Lesnar at ‘SummerSlam’|last=Shoemaker|first=David|date=August 14, 2014|publisher=]|access-date=February 23, 2015}}</ref> | |||
| ==== The Original Deadman Era (1994–1997) ==== | |||
| ] betrayed Undertaker by hitting him with the urn he is seen carrying here]] | |||
| During his absence, the WWF promoted his return by showing video clips of people who claimed to have seen the Undertaker. After ], ] introduced an Undertaker back to the WWF. This Undertaker, however, played by ], was an impostor Undertaker (dubbed the "Under''faker''" by fans) and led to the return of the real Undertaker in the ] main event, appearing as a new version of his Deadman persona, represented now by cool colors and replacing grey with purple. The Undertaker defeated the impostor after three Tombstone Piledrivers.<ref name=pwi92 /> At ], the Undertaker defeated Yokozuna in a casket match rematch. Throughout most of 1995, the Undertaker feuded with members of Ted DiBiase's ]. At ], while the Undertaker was facing ], ] stole the urn and antagonized him by melting it into a large gold necklace.<ref name=pwi92 /> Later, the Undertaker defeated Kama in a casket match at ].<ref name=pwi92 /> Several weeks later, the Undertaker injured his orbital bone near his eye, forcing a period of absence for surgery, until his return at Survivor Series. | |||
| The Undertaker returned at the 1995 Survivor Series, wearing a ]-like, grey upper-face mask.<ref name=pwi92 /> In the main event of the ], the Undertaker was unmasked in a WWF Championship match against ]. ] interfered in this match, costing the Undertaker the championship.<ref name=pwi95>2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.95)</ref> A rematch for the title on the February 5 episode of ''Raw'' saw similar interference.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/_1996/|title=Raw 1996 results|accessdate=December 7, 2011|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> At that month's ], while Diesel was facing Hart in a steel cage match, the Undertaker delivered a surprise attack, emerging from a hole he had ripped through the ring canvas and dragging Diesel with him down under, allowing Hart the victory.<ref name=pwi95 /> After several weeks of more tit for tat between Diesel and the Undertaker, the feud culminated in a match between the two at ], to which Undertaker was victorious.<ref name=legacy /> | |||
| His next feud commenced the very next night when ] made his debut and interfered in the Undertaker's match with ]. For the next few months, Mankind ambushed and cost the Undertaker several matches.<ref name=pwi95 /> The feud intensified, and they began taking their battles into crowds, backstage areas, and in the boiler rooms of different arenas. Mankind cost the Undertaker the ] at ], assisting champion ] to victory. As a result, the first ever ] was ] between the two at ]. During the match, when Undertaker reached for Paul Bearer's urn, Bearer hit him with it, betraying the Undertaker and allowing Mankind to "incapacitate" him with the ], giving him the win.<ref name=pwi95 /> After Bearer's betrayal, the Undertaker took his rivalry with Mankind to a new level, resulting in a ] in the main event of ]. The Undertaker won the match after a ] into the open grave, but after interference from ], as well as the help of several other wrestlers, the Undertaker was ultimately "]."<ref name=pwi95 /> | |||
| After being buried alive, the Undertaker returned at the ] again pitting him against Mankind, but with a unique stipulation; hanging {{convert|20|ft|m|abbr=on}} above the ring was Paul Bearer, enclosed in a steel cage. If Undertaker won the match, he would be able to get his hands on Bearer. Even though the Undertaker won the match, interference from The Executioner enabled Bearer to escape the Undertaker's clutches.<ref name=pwi97>PWI Staff. 2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.96–97)</ref> It was also at this event that Undertaker had developed a more informal, casual Deadman incarnation than before. In this then-new form, he took on a Gothic, brash and ] persona (perhaps to better fit in with the ] that consisted of more adult-oriented programming content and that was budding at around the time). In this form, he proclaimed himself as "The Lord of Darkness." Following Survivor Series, the Undertaker briefly turned his attentions to The Executioner, who had been interfering in on his matches since his arrival. At ], the Undertaker defeated The Executioner in an ].<ref name=pwi97 /> He then moved on to feud with ]. They met at the ] in a singles match, where Undertaker lost after Bearer interfered on behalf of his new protégé.<ref name=pwi97 /> The two then clashed in the Royal Rumble match itself as they made it to the final moments of the match, but both were eliminated by ], who had crept back into the match after his elimination was unseen. He met both Vader and Austin in a ] for the vacant WWF Championship at ], but ] won.<ref>{{cite web|title=Final Four results|date=February 16, 1997|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/supercards/usa/wwf/miscppvs1990s.html#13|accessdate=December 7, 2011|publisher=Wrestling Supercards and Tournaments}}</ref> However, the following month the Undertaker managed to win the title for the second time by defeating ] at ].<ref name=pwi98>2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.98–99)</ref> | |||
| ==== Lord of Darkness (1997–1998) ==== | |||
| {{See also|Hell in a Cell|The Brothers of Destruction}} | |||
| In May 1997, Paul Bearer attempted to rejoin the Undertaker, using the ] of revealing the Undertaker's "deepest, darkest secret" to the world. In storyline, Bearer announced that the Undertaker was an ]ist/murderer, who as a child had burned down the family ] business (where he and his family lived and Bearer worked), killing his parents and ostensibly his younger half-brother as well. The Undertaker denied all this; however, Bearer claimed to having proof in the form of the Undertaker's alive and well half-brother ], who had survived though horribly scarred and burned. Bearer raised Kane after the fire, having him institutionalized from the date of the fire all the way into adulthood. Ever since the fire, Kane had been awaiting to exact vengeance on his older half-brother. In defense, Undertaker responded that Kane, a pyromaniac, had been the one to set the fire and could not have possibly even survived. Also during the period, Bearer had unintentionally admitted to Undertaker's mother having an affair with him. As a result, it was revealed to the Undertaker that Kane was actually his half-brother. Until that point, Undertaker spent his life (entirety of the father's life) under the impression that Kane was fully related to him and his family. It was during this time that the Undertaker also made an appearance in ], defeating ] in a singles match.<ref name=PWInsiderTakervs.Hakushi>{{cite web|url= | |||
| http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=22474&p=1|title=PWInsider.com — Undertaker in Japan|accessdate=March 19, 2013|publisher=PWInsider.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= | |||
| http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2lcw1_michinoku-pro-undertaker-vs-hakushi_sport#.UUipFBzry5c|title=Michinoku Pro: Undertaker vs. Hakushi|accessdate=March 19, 2013}}</ref> | |||
| ] | |||
| Concurrent to the deep, dark secret storyline directed by Bearer, Undertaker began a new rivalry at ] when guest referee ] accidentally hit the Undertaker with a steel chair shot meant for ], costing the Undertaker his WWF Championship.<ref name=pwi98 /> After a double count-out draw during ], Undertaker challenged Michaels to the first ] match at ]. During this match, the Undertaker's storyline half-brother Kane finally made his debut under the control of Paul Bearer, ripping off the door to the cell and giving the Undertaker a Tombstone Piledriver, Undertaker's trademark finisher, allowing Michaels to pin him.<ref name=pwi98 /> As the storyline progressed Kane, through Bearer, challenged the Undertaker, but the Undertaker consistently refused to fight his brother. The Undertaker's final encounter with Michaels was in a casket match at the ]. The week before, Kane had seemed to ally with his brother against Michaels' D-Generation X but at the PPV Kane trapped him in the coffin, padlocking the casket lid, and setting it ablaze which again gave Michaels the victory. The Undertaker, however, had disappeared when the casket lid was reopened.<ref name=pwi100>PWI Staff. 2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.100–101)</ref> After a two-month hiatus, the Undertaker returned and defeated Kane at ].<ref name=pwi100 /> The two had a rematch, the first ever ], one month later at ], which the Undertaker won by setting Kane's right arm on fire.<ref name=pwi100 /> | |||
| The Undertaker's feud with Mankind was renewed afterward, and they ] at ]. During the match, the Undertaker threw Mankind off the roof of the {{convert|16|ft|m|abbr=on}} cell onto the Spanish announce table below, in what was a preplanned move. He later chokeslammed Mankind through the roof of the cell into the ring which ] knocked Mankind unconscious. Mankind also used thumbtacks in the match and was backdropped and chokeslammed onto them before Undertaker won the match with his Tombstone Piledriver.<ref name=pwi100 /> At ], the Undertaker and ] defeated Kane and Mankind to win the ].<ref name=pwi100 /> The Undertaker and Austin's reign as tag champions lasted for only two months, as Kane and Mankind regained the titles on an episode of ''Raw is War''.<ref name=1998results>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/_1998/|title=Raw 1998 results|accessdate=July 10, 2008|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> The Undertaker then became the number one contender for the WWF Championship at ], now held by Austin. Shortly before SummerSlam, however, the Undertaker revealed that he and Kane were working together as brothers. Despite this revelation, the Undertaker told Kane that he did not want him to interfere in the match with Austin, and even though the Undertaker lost the match, he handed Austin his belt back after the match in a show of respect.<ref name=pwi100 /> In September, the storyline continued, and the Undertaker began to show some villainous characteristics when he and Kane revealed the fact that they were in cahoots to rid Austin of his title for ]. At ], the Undertaker and Kane were booked in a ] with Austin for his WWF Championship; McMahon stated that the brothers were not allowed to pin each other. The Undertaker and Kane pinned Austin simultaneously after a double chokeslam,<ref name=pwi100 /> so the title was vacated by McMahon. This event led to a match at ] between the two brothers for the title, with Austin as the special guest referee. Near the end of the match, Paul Bearer seemed about to assist Kane by handing him a steel chair to hit the Undertaker with, but as Kane had his back turned, both Bearer and the Undertaker hit Kane with the chair. The Undertaker went for the pin, but Austin refused to count the fall, attacked the Undertaker, and counted out both brothers.<ref name=pwi100 /> Finally, the Undertaker became a villain the next night on ''Raw is War'' for the first time in over six years, reconciling with Bearer and claiming that he and Bearer would unleash their "]" on the World Wrestling Federation. As part of this new storyline, he admitted that he had indeed set the fire that killed his parents, for which he had previously blamed Kane.<ref name=1998results /> | |||
| After ], the Undertaker returned his attention back to his previous feud with Austin for costing him the title at Judgment Day, hitting Austin in the head with a shovel during a title match with ], returning the favor for what happened a month earlier. With this twist in the storyline, McMahon scheduled a Buried Alive match between the Undertaker and Austin at ]. In the weeks leading up to Rock Bottom, the Undertaker attempted to embalm Austin alive, tried to have Kane committed to a ], and had his druids chain Austin to his symbol, raising it high into the arena.<ref name=1998results /> The Undertaker, however, lost the match after Kane interfered.<ref name=pwi102>2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.102)</ref> | |||
| ==== The Ministry of Darkness (1999) ==== | |||
| {{Main|The Ministry of Darkness}} | |||
| After building up to his second heel run in the latter part of 1998, the Undertaker introduced an updated version of his Deadman identity by January 1999—the dark priest who in the initial period of this persona reigned over a stable known as ]. In this form, he took on a wicked, demonic presence, much more so than ever before. He often claimed to be invoking and taking orders from a "Higher Power". Moreover, he often appeared in a hooded black robe and sat on a throne that was specially designed into his character symbol. With the help of his minions, he often performed sacrifices on select WWE wrestlers, using various ]s and ]s with intent to extract out the dark side of the wrestlers in question so as to recruit them into his Ministry. The completed Ministry of Darkness consisted of ] (], ] and ]), ] (] and ]), ], and ]. Calaway himself did not wrestle for a period having undergone a hip replacement. As part of the angle, Undertaker expressed a desire to take control of the World Wrestling Federation, displacing its owner, Vince McMahon. These ambitions culminated into a rivalry between The Ministry and ], ultimately resulting in a match between Undertaker and Corporation enforcer the ]. The two faced off in a ] match at ], which Undertaker won.<ref name="Wrestlemania XV Results">{{cite web|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/wm15/results/|title=WrestleMania XV Results|publisher=]|accessdate=March 21, 2013}}</ref> At ], Undertaker defeated Corporation member ] after interference from Ministry member Bradshaw.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwwew.net/ppv/wwf/april/1999.htm|title=Backlash '99 Results|publisher=PWWEW.net}}</ref> | |||
| Thereafter, the Undertaker kidnapped ], forcing Vince McMahon to enter into a reluctant alliance with his longtime nemesis ]. The Undertaker attempted to ] Stephanie in an ] ceremony conducted by Paul Bearer, but Austin was able to rescue her.<ref name="Backlash Slam!">{{cite web|url= http://slam.canoe.ca/SlamWrestlingArchive/apr26_backlash.html|title=Backlash: Austin wins, Stephanie abducted|date=April 26, 1999|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=]|accessdate=May 12, 2009}}</ref> At the ] pay-per-view, the Undertaker defeated Austin for his third WWF Championship with help from ], the special referee.<ref name=pwi103>2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.103)</ref> The Ministry eventually merged with Shane McMahon's Corporation alliance to form the ]. The Undertaker later revealed that Vince McMahon had been his "Higher Power" all along.<ref name=1999results>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/_1999/|title=Raw 1999 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> After the Undertaker ] the WWF Championship back to Austin following ],<ref name=1999results /> and an additional loss to him in a ] at ], his relationship with the McMahons dissolved and the Corporate Ministry disbanded.<ref name="FullyLoadedGerweck">{{cite web|url=http://gerweck.net/2010/05/24/fully-loaded-2|title=Fully Loaded 1999 Review|publisher=Gerweck.net|accessdate=March 21, 2013}}</ref> | |||
| The Undertaker then began a storyline where he teamed with ] in a ] known as the "Unholy Alliance", which held the ] twice. After their victory at ], the Undertaker suffered a groin tear and was seen ]ing in several matches. He avoided competing in wrestling matches in the following weeks, instead tyrannically ordering The Big Show to fight all his battles and oblige all his many wishes. To compensate for his lack of physical action, Undertaker became more vocal on the mic, often making ] remarks and performing commentary at the announcer's table. In an ] that occurred in September 1999 on '']'', Mr. McMahon threatened that he would remove Undertaker from the ] main event if he refused to participate in a casket match against Triple H. Undertaker retorted that he did not care and maybe he would not be participating in anything, thus walking out of the WWF.<ref name="WWF SmackDown! - 09/23/1999">{{cite web|url=http://www.pwwew.net/tv/smackdown/990923.htm|title=WWF SmackDown results|publisher=PWWEW.net|accessdate=March 21, 2013|date=September 23, 1999}}</ref> In actuality, Undertaker went on a hiatus from the WWF in order to treat his groin injury. While recuperating, he tore a pectoral muscle, thus taking almost eight months off from wrestling.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwinsider.com/article/54778/undertaker-royal-rumble-vickie-guerrero-and-more.html|title=Undertaker, Royal Rumble, Vickie Guerrero and more|last=Woodward|first=Buck|date=January 29, 2011|publisher=PWInsider|access-date=February 23, 2015}}</ref> During his injury, WCW offered him a contract, but Undertaker declined it.{{Citation needed|date=November 2015}} | |||
| ==== American Bad Ass/Big Evil (2000–2003) ==== | |||
| ]]] | |||
| By his return in May 2000, the Undertaker had taken on a drastically different identity from before. He abandoned the somber mortician-themed attires, his ], allusions to the supernatural, and the accompanying morbid theatrics. In place of this, he took on a biker identity, riding to the ring on a motorcycle, and wearing sunglasses and bandanas to the ring. His entrance music was replaced with popular rock songs of the time, like ]'s "]" and ]'s "]" (from which the name of the Undertaker's new gimmick originated), though it was accompanied by the characteristic opening bell of the Undertaker's original theme. | |||
| When Undertaker returned at ], he took out all the members of the ], which caused him to once again be a fan favorite.{{Citation needed|date=July 2015}} He also targeted their leader, ] ]. At the ] pay-per-view, the Undertaker teamed with The Rock and Kane to defeat the team of Triple H, Shane McMahon, and Vince McMahon.<ref name=pwi106 /> Afterward, he was booked to team with Kane to contend for the WWF Tag Team Championship. They defeated ], earning the right to face them the following week for the tag title, which Edge and Christian retained. Kane betrayed the Undertaker by chokeslamming him twice, with the second one putting the Undertaker through the ring, on the August 14 episode of ''Raw''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/_2000/|title=Raw 2000 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> This incident led to another match between the two at ], which ended in a no contest as Kane ran from the ring area after the Undertaker removed Kane's mask.<ref name=pwi106>PWI Staff. 2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.106)</ref> | |||
| The Undertaker then challenged ] for the WWF Championship at ].<ref name=pwi107>2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.107)</ref> Angle, however, defeated the Undertaker after Kurt switched places with his real life brother, ]. The Undertaker demanded and was awarded a spot in the six-man ] match for the WWF Championship at ]. The Undertaker promised to make someone "famous" and did so when he chokeslamed ] off the roof of the cell.<ref name=pwi107 /> | |||
| In 2001, the Undertaker reunited with Kane as ], challenging for the WWF Tag Team Championship once again. They received a shot at the title at ], facing Edge and Christian and then champions the ] in a ], but they weren't successful.<ref name=pwi107 /> The Undertaker then went on to defeat Triple H at ].<ref name=legacy /> He and Kane continued a storyline that focused on Triple H, who formed a "surprise alliance" with then WWF Champion ]. The Brothers of Destruction were granted an opportunity to face Triple H and Austin for their titles. After the Undertaker and Kane acquired the WWF Tag Team Championship from Edge and Christian,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/|title=World Tag Team Title History|publisher=]|accessdate=June 21, 2009}}</ref> Triple H pinned Kane after attacking him with a sledgehammer at ], where the Brothers of Destruction dropped the title.<ref name=pwi108>2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.108–109)</ref> With Kane injured, the Undertaker feuded briefly with Steve Austin for his WWF Championship, but at ], Austin retained his title.<ref name=pwi108 /> | |||
| As part of "]" storyline, the Undertaker's next nemesis was ], who was obsessively following the Undertaker's wife, Sara.<ref name=pwi108 /> While they were presented as being married from the start of the storyline, in reality, Mark and Sara got married during the height of this feud.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profiles/d/diamond-dallas-page.html|title=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> At ], ] the Undertaker and Kane defeated Page and his partner ] in a steel cage match to win the WWF Tag Team Championship.<ref name=pwi108 /> At ], the Undertaker teamed with Kane, The Rock, ], and The Big Show to take on ]'s Steve Austin, ], ], ], and Kurt Angle (this was the last time the Undertaker and Kane teamed until 2006). Angle pinned the Undertaker due to interference by Austin.<ref name=pwi108 /> After the Alliance was defeated, the Undertaker became a villain once again by forcing commentator ] to kiss Vince McMahon's ass.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/011126.html|title=Raw – November 26, 2001 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> This was the beginning of a new persona for the Undertaker, as he cut his long hair short and called himself "Big Evil". At ], the Undertaker defeated Van Dam to win the ].<ref name=pwi110>2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.109–110)</ref> | |||
| ] | |||
| The Undertaker's next storyline began at the ] in 2002 when ] eliminated him by dropkicking him from behind. Subsequently, the Undertaker eliminated Maven in return and brutally assaulted him backstage.<ref name=pwi110 /> On an episode of '']'', The Rock mentioned the Undertaker's elimination at the Royal Rumble, angering the Undertaker. The Undertaker responded by costing The Rock the number one contendership for the Undisputed WWF Championship.<ref>{{cite news|author=Michael McAvennie|title=WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition|publisher=Pocket Books|year=2003|page=52}}</ref> The storyline continued when The Rock cost the Undertaker his match with Maven for the Hardcore Championship.<ref>{{cite news|author=Michael McAvennie|title=WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition|publisher=Pocket Books|year=2003|page=56}}</ref> The two faced off at ], where the Undertaker lost due to interference from ].<ref name=pwi110 /> This interference began a storyline with Flair, who declined a challenge to wrestle Undertaker at ],<ref>{{cite news|first=Michael|last=McAvennie|title=WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition|publisher=Pocket Books|year=2003|pages=79–80}}</ref> and, as a result, Undertaker assaulted his son ].<ref name=yearbook>{{cite news|author=Michael McAvennie|title=WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition|publisher=Pocket Books|year=2003|pages=80–81}}</ref> Flair eventually accepted the match after the Undertaker threatened to inflict the same punishment on Flair's daughter.<ref name=yearbook /> A no disqualification stipulation was added to the match, and the Undertaker defeated Flair.<ref name=legacy /> | |||
| After the storyline with Flair, the Undertaker defeated Steve Austin at ] to win the number one contendership for the Undisputed WWF Championship. Later that night, he helped Hulk Hogan win his title match against then Undisputed Champion Triple H.<ref name=pwi110 /> The Undertaker then defeated Hogan for his fourth world championship at ]. The following night, the Undertaker was defeated by Rob Van Dam for the Undisputed Championship, however Ric Flair restarted the match and the Undertaker retained his championship.<ref name=pwi111>PWI Staff. 2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.110–111)</ref> On the July 1 episode of ''Raw'', the Undertaker turned into a fan favorite again after defeating ] in a ] and raising Hardy's hand as a show of respect. The Undertaker, however, dropped the title at ] to The Rock in a ] that also involved Kurt Angle.<ref name=pwi111 /> The Undertaker was then switched from Raw to SmackDown! (He remained part of the SmackDown! roster until the brand extension ended in 2011), alongside former Raw talent ], ], and ]. The Undertaker challenged Lesnar in a title match at ] that ended in a double-disqualification.<ref name=pwi111 /> Their feud carried over to ] in a Hell in a Cell match. The Undertaker performed in the match with a legitimate broken hand and eventually lost to the champion.<ref name=pwi111 /> | |||
| The Undertaker took a leave from wrestling after the Big Show threw him off the stage, sparking a feud.<ref>{{cite news|last=McAvennie|first=Michael|title=WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition|publisher=Pocket Books|year=2003|page=288}}</ref> The Undertaker returned at the ] in 2003.<ref name=pwi112>2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.112–113)</ref> He immediately continued his feud with Big Show and defeated him by submission at ] with a ]. ] entered the storyline by attempting to attack the Undertaker after the match, but ] came to his aid.<ref name=pwi112 /> The storyline resumed as the Undertaker began to train Jones to wrestle, and the two were scheduled to fight Big Show and A-Train in a tag team match at ].<ref name=legacy /> Jones, however, was removed prior to the match, making it a handicap match, which the Undertaker won with the help of Jones.<ref name=pwi112 /> | |||
| Over the remainder of the year, the Undertaker entered a brief feud with ] and was booked to have two WWE Championship opportunities. The first, on the September 4 ''SmackDown!'', against Kurt Angle, ended in a no contest, due to interference from Brock Lesnar.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/030904.html|title=SmackDown-September 4, 2003 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> The second, at ], was a Biker Chain match between the Undertaker and Lesnar, which Lesnar won with the help of Vince McMahon.<ref name=pwi114>PWI Staff. 2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.113–114)</ref> This match resulted in a feud with McMahon, culminating at ] where the Undertaker lost a Buried Alive match against McMahon when Kane interfered.<ref name=pwi114 /> The Undertaker disappeared for some time following the match, with Kane claiming that he was "dead and buried forever".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/031120.html|title=SmackDown-November 20, 2003 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> | |||
| ==== Return of the Deadman (2004–2007) ==== | |||
| ] | |||
| In the storyline leading up to ], Kane was haunted by vignettes proclaiming the Undertaker's return. The first was during the ] when the Undertaker's bells tolled, distracting Kane and allowing ] to eliminate him.<ref name=pwi114 /> Accompanied by Paul Bearer, the Undertaker returned as a hybrid version of The Deadman at WrestleMania XX and defeated Kane.<ref name=pwi115>2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.115–116)</ref> At ], the Undertaker defeated Booker T. Three months later, The Dudley Boyz kidnapped Bearer on ]'s orders.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/040527.html|title=SmackDown-May 27, 2004 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> Thus, Heyman "took control" of Undertaker.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/040617.html|title=SmackDown-June 17, 2004 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> On ''SmackDown'', Undertaker attacked ] and ]. The next week, Cena confronted Undertaker and was booked by then-General Manager ] to wrestle the Undertaker. Undertaker won after hitting Cena with his chain and delivering a ''Tombstone Piledriver''. At ], Undertaker fought a handicap match against the Dudley Boyz, with the stipulation that if he did not lay down and purposely lose, Heyman would bury Paul Bearer in cement. The Undertaker won and stopped Heyman from burying Bearer, but, after claiming Bearer was merely a liability he had no use for, buried him himself.<ref name=pwi115 /> | |||
| The Undertaker began a feud with WWE Champion ] (JBL) by challenging to a title match at ], which the Undertaker lost by disqualification.<ref name=pwi115 /> At ], the Undertaker and JBL competed in the first ever Last Ride match, although the Undertaker lost after ] interfered.<ref name=pwi115 /> After defeating Heidenreich in a match at ],<ref name=pwi117>PWI Staff. 2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.116–117)</ref> The Undertaker turned his focus to the WWE Championship once again. Along with Eddie Guerrero and Booker T, he challenged JBL to a championship rematch at ] in a Fatal Four-Way match, in which the Undertaker was unsuccessful, again due to Heidenreich's interference.<ref name=pwi117 /> The feud culminated in a Casket match between the Undertaker and Heidenreich at the ], where the Undertaker sealed Heidenreich in a casket for the victory.<ref name=pwi117 /> | |||
| Soon after, ] challenged the Undertaker to a match at ], and claimed that he would end ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/050307.html|title=Raw-March 7, 2005 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> Even with help from his father ], Randy lost and the Undertaker improved his WrestleMania record to 13–0.<ref name=pwi117 /> After a two-month hiatus, Undertaker returned at the June 16 episode of ''SmackDown!'' but lost to JBL, thanks to interference from Randy Orton.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/050616.html|title=SmackDown-June 16, 2005 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> At ], the Undertaker became the number one contender to the ], a position that JBL felt he should have. As part of the feud, on the following ''SmackDown!'', the Undertaker lost the number-one contender-ship to JBL, once again due to interference from Orton.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/050728.html|title=SmackDown-July 28, 2005 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> With this, the Undertaker resumed his feud with Orton. At ], Orton defeated the Undertaker in a WrestleMania rematch.<ref name=pwi118>PWI Staff. 2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.118)</ref> The storyline intensified as the two taunted each other with caskets, leading to a handicap-casket match at ], in which the Undertaker lost to Randy and his father "Cowboy" Bob Orton.<ref name=pwi118 /> After the match, the Ortons poured gasoline on the casket and set it on fire. When the charred casket was opened, however, the Undertaker had once again vanished. He returned at the ], emerging from a burning casket.<ref name=pwi119>2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p. 119)</ref> The Undertaker returned to ''SmackDown!'' in early December to haunt Orton and set up a Hell in a Cell match at ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/051202.html|title=SmackDown-December 2, 2005 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> After winning the match,<ref name=pwi119 /> Calaway took a brief hiatus from wrestling. | |||
| ] at ]]] | |||
| In January 2006 at the ], the Undertaker returned during ]'s celebration of his World Title defense against ] on a horse-drawn cart, signaling for a title shot. As part of their storyline feud, the Undertaker lost his match with Angle at ] after a thirty-minute bout. Undertaker cornered Angle after the match and told him he was not finished with him; however during a rematch on ''SmackDown!'' Henry attacked the Undertaker from behind, costing him the title. This led to the Undertaker challenging Henry to a Casket match at ], and Henry – like Orton a year before – vowed to end Undertaker's WrestleMania winning streak. The Undertaker defeated Henry to become 14–0 at WrestleMania. During a rematch on the next episode of ''SmackDown!'', ] made his debut and assaulted the Undertaker to transition into a new storyline. | |||
| The Undertaker was not heard from until the May 5 episode of ''SmackDown!'', as Theodore Long delivered a challenge from the Undertaker to Khali for a match at ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/060505.html|title=SmackDown-May 5, 2006 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> The Undertaker lost to Khali,<ref name=pwi121>2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.121)</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/judgmentday/history/2006/matches/23848443/results/ |title=The Great Khali makes Undertaker rest in peace |date=May 21, 2006 |author=Ed Williams III |accessdate=January 5, 2008 |publisher=] |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/20080103092353/http://www.wwe.com:80/shows/judgmentday/history/2006/matches/23848443/results/ |archivedate=January 3, 2008 }}</ref> and he did not appear again until the July 4 episode of ''SmackDown!'', when he accepted Khali's challenge to a ] at ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/060704.html|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20080110205041/http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/060704.html|archivedate=January 10, 2008|title=SmackDown-July 4, 2006 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> Khali, however, was removed from the match and was not medically fit and was replaced by ] ], over whom the Undertaker gained the victory.<ref>{{cite av media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iy5AukI0Kbg|title=5 Undertaker matches you’ve never seen before: 5 Things|date=November 18, 2015|publisher=|via=YouTube}}</ref> In the storyline, Teddy Long replaced Khali with Big Show as punishment for an attack on the Undertaker shortly before the match.<ref name=pwi121 /> Khali was then challenged to a ] at ] after interfering in the Undertaker's match with World Heavyweight Champion ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/060804.html|title=SmackDown-August 4, 2006 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> Khali refused the challenge for SummerSlam, though Long made the match official for the August 18 episode of ''SmackDown!'' instead. The Undertaker won the match by striking Khali with the steel stairs, delivering several chair shots, and finishing him with a chokeslam.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/060818.html|title=SmackDown-April 18, 2007 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> | |||
| The Undertaker's next match was with ] ] at ] but was disqualified in the match after he hit Kennedy with the championship belt.<ref name=pwi122>PWI Staff. 2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.122)</ref> On the November 3 episode of ''SmackDown!'', the Undertaker reunited with Kane to form the Brothers of Destruction for the first time in five years, defeating the reluctant opposition team of Mr. Kennedy and ], with whom Kane was feuding with at the time.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/061103.html|title=SmackDown-November 3, 2006 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> As part of the storyline, Kennedy defeated the Undertaker in a ] at ] after interference from MVP,<ref name=pwi122 /> but finally defeated Kennedy in a Last Ride match at ].<ref name=pwi122 /> The two continued to feud into 2007 as Kennedy cost the Undertaker two World Heavyweight Championship opportunities for a championship match at the ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/070112.html|title=SmackDown-January 12, 2007 Results|accessdate=May 1, 2007|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref><ref name=pwi130>2007 Wrestling almanac & book of facts. "Wrestling’s historical cards" (p.130)</ref> | |||
| ==== World Heavyweight Champion (2007–2010) ==== | |||
| The Undertaker won his first ],<ref name=pwi130 /> in doing so becoming the first man to enter the Rumble at number 30 and win the match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/history/2007/matches/35535102/results/ |publisher=].com |title=A Phenom-enal Rumble |last=Dee |first=Louie |date=January 28, 2007 |accessdate=August 23, 2007 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/20071217110330/http://www.wwe.com:80/shows/royalrumble/history/2007/matches/35535102/results/ |archivedate=December 17, 2007 }}</ref> He then began a storyline with ], whom he defeated at ] to win his first ]. At ] in a Last Man Standing match, they had a rematch that ended in a draw when neither man was able to answer the ten-count, resulting in the Undertaker retaining the Championship. On the May 11 episode of ''SmackDown!'', the Undertaker and Batista fought in a steel cage match that ended in a draw when both men's feet touched the floor at the same time. After the match, Mark Henry made his return and assaulted an already exhausted Undertaker, after which Edge ran to the ring and cashed in his ] briefcase, forcing Undertaker into a second title defense. Although he kicked out of two quick pin attempts, Undertaker was pinned by Edge after a spear and lost the title. | |||
| ] at ]]] | |||
| During Calaway's ], Henry bragged about his assault on Undertaker, until vignettes began playing promoting the Undertaker's return. The Undertaker returned at ], defeating Henry.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/unforgiven/matches/|title=Unforgiven 2007 Results|accessdate=September 16, 2007|publisher=]}}</ref> Batista and the Undertaker reignited their feud at ] with the fans choosing the ] Stone Cold Steve Austin, but Batista retained the world title.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwwew.net/ppv/wwf/october/cyber2007.htm|title=Cyber Sunday 2007 Results|accessdate=November 19, 2007|publisher=PWWEW.net}}</ref> They battled again inside a Hell in a Cell at ] where Edge returned and interfered to help Batista retain the World Heavyweight Championship.<ref>{{cite web|first=Louie |last=Dee |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/history/2007/matches/4334964/results/ |title=On the Edge of Hell |accessdate=November 19, 2007 |date=November 18, 2007 |publisher=] |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/20081031145013/http://www.wwe.com:80/shows/survivorseries/history/2007/matches/4334964/results/ |archivedate=October 31, 2008 }}</ref> In response to this, the Undertaker delivered a Tombstone piledriver to ] ], on the next ''SmackDown!'', sending her to the hospital. Returning Assistant-General Manager Theodore Long declared a Triple Threat match for the title at ], which Edge won. | |||
| At ], the Undertaker defeated Batista, ], The Great Khali, Montel Vontavious Porter, and ] in an ], to become the number one contender for Edge's World Heavyweight Championship at ]. He defeated Edge at WrestleMania with his ''Hell's Gate'' submission hold, to win his second World Heavyweight Championship in his 16th ] win.<ref name="NoWayOut08">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/history/2008/matches/6364982/results/ |title=No Way Out Match results |accessdate=February 17, 2008 |first=Louie |last=Dee |date=February 17, 2008 |publisher=] |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/20090225063218/http://www.wwe.com:80/shows/nowayout/history/2008/matches/6364982/results/ |archivedate=February 25, 2009 }}</ref> In a WrestleMania rematch, the Undertaker defeated Edge once again at ] to retain the World Heavyweight Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6347966/results/|accessdate=May 2, 2008|title=Second verse, same as the first|last=Dee|first=Louie|publisher=]|date=April 27, 2008 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20080501145452/http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6347966/results/ <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archivedate = May 1, 2008}}</ref> Vickie Guerrero announced that the Undertaker's ''Hell's Gate'' was an illegal hold and stripped him of the title. The Undertaker battled Edge for the vacant title at ], which he won by ]. Vickie ordered that the title remain vacant, because titles cannot change hands in this way. Edge and the Undertaker faced each other again for the vacant championship at ] in a ], which the Undertaker lost after interference from ]. As a result of the stipulation, Undertaker was forced to leave WWE. | |||
| ]]] | |||
| On the July 25, 2008 episode of ''SmackDown'', Vickie Guerrero announced that she had reinstated the Undertaker, and that Edge would face him at ] in a Hell in a Cell match,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/07252008/|title=SmackDown: A woman's scorn, a Deadman reborn|accessdate=June 25, 2008}}</ref> which the Undertaker won. After the match, the Undertaker chokeslammed Edge from the top of a ladder and through the ring canvas.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/matches/6541940/results/|title=Unleashed in Hell|last=DiFino|first=Lennie|date=August 17, 2008|publisher=]|accessdate=August 18, 2008 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20080822055025/http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/matches/6541940/results/ <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archivedate = August 22, 2008}}</ref> Following this match, Guerrero tried to make a peace offering with the Undertaker on ''SmackDown'' by apologizing, but the Undertaker told her that he is not the forgiving kind. At ], as the Undertaker approached the ring to "take Guerrero's soul" and take her in a ], the Big Show, who appeared at first to aid the Undertaker, betrayed and assaulted him.<ref name="ShowknocksTaker">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/unforgiven/matches/bigshowspeaks/results/ |title=Big Show lends Guerrero a giant hand |date=September 7, 2008 |publisher=] |accessdate=September 7, 2008 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/20080910044919/http://www.wwe.com:80/shows/unforgiven/matches/bigshowspeaks/results/ |archivedate=September 10, 2008 }}</ref> As a result of this altercation, the Undertaker and Big Show faced each other in a match at ], where the Big Show ] the Undertaker out with two ] punches in the forehead and a punch to the back of Undertaker's head.<ref name="ShowvsTaker">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/matches/8101498/results/|title=The knockout heard ‘round the WWE Universe|last=Burdick|first=Michael|date=October 5, 2008|publisher=]|accessdate=October 6, 2008}}{{dead link|date=May 2012}}</ref> At ], the Undertaker defeated the Big Show in a Last Man Standing match after applying ]. Then the Undertaker was engaged in a short feud with ] who interfered during his match with ]. But the feud ended when Jeff Hardy defeated the Undertaker in an ] the following week on Smackdown due to the interference of The Big Show.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/cybersunday/matches/8320770/results/|accessdate=September 17, 2009|date=October 26, 2008|last=Passero|first=Mitch|title=Deadman's revenge|publisher=]}}{{dead link|date=May 2012}}</ref> The Undertaker then went on to defeat the Big Show at ] in a casket match, to end the feud.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2008/matches/8641756|accessdate=May 5, 2012|date=November 23, 2008|title=Undertaker def. Big Show (Casket Match)|publisher=]}}</ref> | |||
| At ], the Undertaker was part of the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match along with Triple H, Jeff Hardy, Big Show, Vladimir Kozlov and Edge; however, he was unsuccessful at winning the match as he was the runner-up behind Triple H. He then became embroiled in a long time feud with Shawn Michaels over ] and the fact that the Undertaker had never defeated Michaels in a singles match previously. The feud culminated in a match at ] which the Undertaker won.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/25/matches/9074020|accessdate=May 5, 2012|date=April 1, 2009|title=Undertaker def. Shawn Michaels|publisher=]}}</ref> Their match was highly acclaimed by critics and audiences alike and is now considered by many to be one of the greatest WrestleMania matches of all time. On the April 24 episode of ''SmackDown'', after Big Show defeated Undertaker by knockout, he attacked Big Show. Following this, Undertaker took another hiatus from the WWE. | |||
| After the four-month hiatus, the Undertaker returned at ] in August by attacking ], who had just won the World Heavyweight Championship from Jeff Hardy in a ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/history/2009/matches/hardypunk|accessdate=May 5, 2012|date=August 23, 2009|title=CM Punk def. Jeff Hardy (New World Heavyweight Champion)|publisher=]}}</ref> At ], the Undertaker faced Punk in a ]. The Undertaker had originally won the match with his ] submission hold, but the match was restarted by ] ], who ruled that the ban placed on the move by Vickie Guerrero was still in effect. Punk went on to win the match with his ] when referee ] called for the bell, despite Undertaker never submitting in a recreation of the ], which took place in the same venue in 1997.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwebreakingpoint/matches/11460100/results/|accessdate=September 26, 2009|date=September 13, 2009|last=Tello|first=Craig|title=Hell's Gate-crasher|publisher=]}}{{dead link|date=May 2012}}</ref> On the September 25 episode of ''SmackDown'', Theodore Long announced that the ban had now been officially lifted, after being released from a casket that the Undertaker had apparently placed him in.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/09/26/11135656.html|title=Smackdown: Punk escapes 'Taker's grasp|date=September 26, 2009|last=Sidhu|first=Manraj|accessdate=May 5, 2012|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=]}}</ref> The feud between the two continued and at the ] pay-per-view, the Undertaker won the World Heavyweight Championship from Punk in a Hell in a Cell match.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sokol |first1=Brian|last2=Sokol |first2=Chris |url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/10/05/11300786.html|title=Title changes highlight Hell in a Cell|date=October 5, 2009 |accessdate=October 5, 2009|work=Slam Wrestling|publisher=]}}</ref> The Undertaker successfully defended the title against CM Punk on ''SmackDown'', in a Fatal Four Way match at ], and in a Triple Threat match at ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/10/25/11522721.html|title=Cena, Smackdown earn Bragging Rights|date=October 25, 2009|last=Bishop|first=Matt|accessdate=February 1, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/11/23/11879686.html|title=Lots of wrestlers per match but no title changes at Survivor Series|date=November 23, 2009|last1=Plummer|first1=Dale|last2=Tylwalk |first2=Nick|accessdate=February 1, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=]}}</ref> He faced Batista at ] for the championship, and won when the match was restarted by Long, after Batista had originally won after utilising a ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/12/14/12146261.html|title=New champs at strong WWE TLC show|date=December 14, 2009|last=Kapur|first=Bob|accessdate=February 1, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=]}}</ref> | |||
| ] | |||
| At the ] pay-per-view, a pyrotechnics malfunction momentarily engulfed the Undertaker in flames on three occasions during his ring entrance. He was able to continue with his scheduled match, with first- and second-degree burns on his chest and neck that, according to a WWE spokesman, "looked like a bad sunburn".<ref name="burns">{{cite web|url=http://www.aolnews.com/2010/02/22/the-undertaker-burned-during-accident-at-elimination-chamber/ |title=The Undertaker Burned During Accident at Elimination Chamber |date=February 22, 2010 |last=Fritz |first=Brian |accessdate=June 25, 2014 |publisher=AOL Fanhouse |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/20140409065922/http://www.aolnews.com/2010/02/22/the-undertaker-burned-during-accident-at-elimination-chamber/ |archivedate=April 9, 2014 }}</ref> He lost the World Heavyweight Championship to Chris Jericho after interference from Shawn Michaels;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/02/22/12978356.html|title=Batista, Jericho and Michaels capitalize on Elimination Chamber opportunities|date=February 22, 2010|last1=Plummer|first1=Dale|last2=Tylwalk|first2=Nick|accessdate=February 24, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=]}}</ref> Jericho has told on multiple occasions how the pyrotechnician responsible was immediately escorted from the arena, and relieved of his employment with WWE, at the behest of the Undertaker.<ref>{{Cite episode|title=Director/Actor Eli Roth|url=http://podcastone.com/Talk-Is-Jericho?showAllEpisodes=true|accessdate=June 25, 2014|series=Talk is Jericho|network=PodcastOne|date=March 20, 2014|number=23|minutes=84}}</ref><ref>{{Cite episode|title=WWE's Paul Heyman & Edge Pt 1|url=http://podcastone.com/Talk-Is-Jericho?showAllEpisodes=true|accessdate=June 26, 2014|series=Talk is Jericho|network=PodcastOne|date=June 24, 2014|number=50|minutes=34}}</ref> | |||
| The Undertaker then accepted Michaels' rematch offer, after initially declining, at ] in a Streak vs. Career Match, where Undertaker was victorious and Shawn Michaels was forced to retire. | |||
| After a hiatus (which included wrestling two matches on Raw), he returned to ''SmackDown'' on May 28, defeating Rey Mysterio to qualify for a spot in the ] pay-per-view to compete for the World Heavyweight Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/05282010 |title=WWE "Back in black"|publisher=Wwe.com|accessdate=October 24, 2011}}</ref> During the match, the Undertaker suffered a ], broken ], and broken nose; he was visibly bleeding profusely on camera by the end of the match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wrestling.insidepulse.com/2010/05/31/undertaker-injured-wwe-fatal-4-way-main-event-in-jeopardy/|title=Inside Pulse Wrestling | Undertaker Injured, WWE Fatal 4 Way Main Event In Jeopardy|publisher=Wrestling.insidepulse.com|accessdate=October 24, 2011}}</ref> To cover for the injury, Kane revealed the Undertaker had been found in ];<ref>{{cite web|author=|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/06042010/mainarticle|title=WWE "Unnatural Phenom-enon"|publisher=Wwe.com|date=June 4, 2010|accessdate=October 24, 2011}}</ref> Mysterio took his place in the match and won the World Heavyweight Championship. While attempting to learn which wrestler had attacked the Undertaker, Kane defeated Mysterio to win the World Heavyweight Championship. Kane and Mysterio continued to clash as they accused one another of being the assailant behind the attack.<ref>{{cite web|author=Brandon Stroud %BloggerTitle%|url=http://www.aolnews.com/2010/07/18/wwe-money-in-the-bank-2010-results-new-champion-cashes-in/|title=WWE Money in the Bank 2010 Results: New Champion Cashes In|publisher=Aolnews.com|date=July 18, 2010|accessdate=October 24, 2011}}</ref> | |||
| At ], the Undertaker returned to confront Kane and Rey Mysterio, only to be overpowered and Tombstoned by Kane. With Kane revealed as his attacker, the two feuded for the next few months over the World Heavyweight Championship. After losing to Kane at ], Paul Bearer returned as Undertaker's manager on an episode of ''SmackDown''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/09/25/15475181.html|title=Smackdown: Kickin' it old school|date=September 25, 2010|last=Hillhouse|first=Dave|accessdate=October 4, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=]}}</ref> However, Bearer turned on him at ] to help Kane win once again. The feud ended at ] when ] helped Kane defeat Undertaker in a Buried Alive match; in reality, he needed medical treatment for his injury. | |||
| ==== Defending and ending of the Streak (2011–2014) ==== | |||
| {{Main|The Streak (wrestling)}} | |||
| After the ], promotional videos began airing, showing the Undertaker entering and standing within a ]-style old house on a rainy desert. Each promo ended with the date 2–21–11 being "burned into" the screen. On the February 21 ''Raw'', the Undertaker returned. Before he could speak, ] also returned and confronted him. The two challenged each other to a match at ], which was later announced as a No Holds Barred match. At WrestleMania XXVII, the Undertaker defeated Triple H via submission, but had to be carried away from the ring on a stretcher.<ref name="UT vs. HHH">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/27/triple-h-undertaker-streak-photos|title=Results:the Undertaker def. Triple H (No Holds Barred Match)|publisher=]|accessdate=April 5, 2011}}</ref> | |||
| ]]] | |||
| On the January 30, 2012 episode of ''Raw'', the Undertaker returned after a ten-month hiatus to confront Triple H.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2012-01-30/results|title=the Undertaker returned with his sights set on Triple H|publisher=]|last=Passero|first=Mitch|date=January 30, 2012|accessdate=January 30, 2012}}</ref> On the February 13 episode of ''Raw'', Triple H refused the Undertaker's challenge for a WrestleMania rematch.<ref>{{cite web|last=Medalis|first=Kara A.|title=WWE Raw SuperShow results: Has Cena embraced the hate?|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2012-02-13/results|publisher=]|accessdate=February 14, 2012|date=February 13, 2012}}</ref> After the Undertaker accused Triple H of living in the shadow of Shawn Michaels on the February 20 episode of ''Raw'', Triple H accepted the challenge on the condition that it be a Hell in a Cell match; Michaels was later inserted as referee in the match. At ], Undertaker, debuting his new look, a mohawk, defeated Triple H to extend ]. After the match, Undertaker and Michaels carried Triple H to the entrance stage, where the three embraced.<ref name="WWEEndofanEra">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/28/undertaker-triple-h-hell-in-a-cell|title=the Undertaker def. Triple H (Hell in a Cell Match with special referee Shawn Michaels)|publisher=]|accessdate=March 2, 2013}}</ref> Later in 2012, the Undertaker appeared on the ] on July 23 to help Kane, who had been confronted by ], ], ], ], ], and ]. The Brothers of Destruction overcame and dominated the six other wrestlers.<ref>{{cite web|last=J.|first=Cyril|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2012-07-23/raw-1000-results/page-9|title=Raw 1,000 results|work=WWE|accessdate=July 23, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=J.|first=Cyril|url=http://www.wwe.com/videos/undertaker-and-kane-fight-off-their-attackers-and-stand-tall-raw-july-23-2012-26039958|title=Undertaker and Kane fight off their attackers and stand tall: Raw, July 23, 2012|work=WWE|accessdate=July 23, 2012}}</ref> | |||
| The Undertaker's next television appearance was on '']'' on March 4, 2013, where he opened the show by performing his signature entrance. CM Punk, Randy Orton, Big Show, and Sheamus fought in a ] to determine who would face him at ], which Punk won.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2013-03-04/wwe-raw-results-26096005|title=the Undertaker rises again and CM Punk punches his WrestleMania ticket|publisher=WWE.com|date=March 4, 2012|accessdate=March 5, 2013}}</ref> After the real-life death of Paul Bearer on March 5, 2013, a storyline involving Punk regularly ] the Undertaker through displays of flippancy and disrespect towards Bearer's death began.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/videos/wwe-goes-into-overtime-raw-march-11-2013-26098254|title=WWE goes into overtime: Raw, March 11, 2013|publisher=WWE.com|date=March 11, 2013|accessdate=March 20, 2013}}</ref> Punk interrupted the Undertaker's ceremony to honor Bearer on ''Raw'', stealing the trademark urn and later using it to attack Kane, humiliate the Brothers of Destruction and mock Bearer.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/videos/cm-punk-interrupts-undertakers-tribute-to-paul-bearer-raw-march-11-2013-26097992|title=CM Punk interrupts Undertaker's tribute to Paul Bearer: Raw, March 11, 2013|publisher=WWE.com|date=March 11, 2012|accessdate=March 20, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/videos/cm-punk-taunts-the-undertaker-with-paul-bearers-urn-raw-march-18-2013-26099706|title=CM Punk taunts the Undertaker with Paul Bearer's urn: RAW, March 18, 2013|publisher=WWE.com|date=March 18, 2012|accessdate=March 20, 2013}}</ref> Undertaker defeated Punk at WrestleMania 29 to extend his streak to 21–0 and then took back the urn.<ref name="wwe.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/29/wrestlemania-29-results-26104708|title=WrestleMania 29 results|work=WWE}}</ref> The following night on ''Raw'', Undertaker came out to pay his respects to Bearer, but was interrupted by ], who attempted to attack Undertaker before Kane and ] made the save.<ref>{{cite web|title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 4/8: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw – WM29 fall-out, new World Champ, no Rock, Taker live, crowd takes over|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_69884.shtml}}</ref> Undertaker wrestled his first ''Raw'' match in three years on the April 22 episode, teaming with Kane and Bryan against the Shield in a losing effort.<ref>{{cite web|title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 4/22 (Second Hour): Shield vs. The Undertaker six-man tag match, Ryder squashed|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_70166.shtml}}</ref> Four days later, he wrestled his first ''SmackDown'' match in three years, defeating Shield member ] via submission. Afterward, Undertaker was attacked by Ambrose and the rest of the Shield, who powerbombed him through the announce table.<ref>{{cite web|title=PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 4/26: Complete coverage of the loaded Friday night show, including Undertaker vs. Ambrose, Henry vs. Orton|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_70252.shtml}}</ref> | |||
| ] in 2014]] | |||
| On the February 24, 2014 episode of ''Raw'', the Undertaker returned to confront ] and accepted his challenge for a match at ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Tylwalk|first=Nick|title=Raw: Longer matches and a dramatic return in Green Bay|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2014/02/25/21493241.html|work=SLAM! Wrestling|accessdate=February 25, 2014}}</ref> After 25 minutes and three ''F-5''s, Lesnar won the match by pinfall, ending ] in what was described as "the most shocking result in WWE history".<ref>{{cite news|last=Murphy|first=Ryan |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/30/undertaker-brock-lesnar-26184576|title=Brock Lesnar def. The Undertaker|date=April 6, 2014|accessdate=April 15, 2014|publisher=WWE}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Hooton|first=Christopher|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/wwe-mma-wrestling/undertakers-streak-ends-at-wrestlemania-30-does-brock-lesnar-loss-spell-retirement-for-the-dead-man-9243060.html |title=Undertaker's streak ends at WrestleMania 30: Does Brock Lesnar loss spell retirement for the Dead Man?|date=April 7, 2014|accessdate=April 15, 2014|publisher=The Independent}}</ref> Following the match, Undertaker was hospitalized with a severe ] which he suffered in the first minutes of the bout.<ref>{{cite news|last=Butterly|first=Amelia|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/26934095|title=WWE WrestleMania star The Undertaker has head injury|date=April 8, 2014|accessdate=April 15, 2014|publisher=BBC}}</ref> | |||
| In December 2014, in an out-of-character interview, ] confirmed that it was his final decision to have Lesnar end the Streak, and that the Undertaker was initially shocked at the decision. McMahon's reasons for making the decision were that it would make a huge deal out of Lesnar to set up ] and that there were no other viable candidates to fill Lesnar's role.<ref>{{cite web|title=WWE news: Austin/McMahon podcast – McMahon attempts to explain why Undertaker's Streak was broken at WM30|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_82062.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|accessdate=December 2, 2014|first=James|last=Caldwell}}</ref> | |||
| ==== Resurgence (2015–present) ==== | |||
| ].]] | |||
| In February 2015, ] began a series of cryptic promos which led to ], where Wyatt challenged Undertaker to a match at ]. On the March 9 episode of ''Raw'', Undertaker accepted the challenge.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_83486.shtml|title=CALDWELL'S WWE FAST LANE PPV RESULTS 2/22: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Bryan vs. Reigns, Cena vs. Rusev, Sting-Hunter confrontation, final PPV before WM31 |date=February 22, 2015|accessdate=February 22, 2015|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|author=Caldwell, James}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_83746.shtml|title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 3/9: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw – Lesnar appears, Orton strikes, Taker "responds" to Bray, Sting "speaks," latest WM31 hype, more|date=March 9, 2015|accessdate=March 9, 2015|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|author=Caldwell, James}}</ref> At the event on March 29, Undertaker, reverting to his ] appearance, defeated Wyatt, garnering his 22nd victory at WrestleMania.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_84175.shtml|title=CALDWELL'S WM31 PPV RESULTS 3/29: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of WWE World Title match, Taker's return, Sting vs. Triple H, Cena vs. Rusev, Rock/UFC surprise, more |date=March 29, 2015|accessdate=March 29, 2015|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|author=Caldwell, James}}</ref> | |||
| At ] in July, Undertaker made his return, attacking ] as Lesnar was on the verge of defeating ] during his ] match, which caused the match to end in a disqualification win for Lesnar.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_86322.shtml|title=CALDWELL'S WWE BATTLEGROUND PPV REPORT 7/19: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live PPV – Rollins vs. Lesnar, Cena vs. Owens III, Orton returns home, more|date=July 19, 2015|accessdate=July 19, 2015|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|last=Caldwell|first=James}}</ref> The next night on ''Raw'', Undertaker explained his actions as revenge {{ndash}} not for Lesnar breaking the streak, but rather the constant taunting he allowed Paul Heyman to engage in. Later that night, after Undertaker and Lesnar brawled throughout the arena and had to be separated, it was announced that they would face off in a rematch at ] in August. At the pay-per-view, Undertaker controversially defeated Lesnar; Undertaker tapped out to a Kimura lock by Lesnar and the bell rang, but the referee did not see the tapout and allowed the match to continue. Lesnar then passed out to Undertaker's submission hold, ''Hell's Gate''.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Pappolla|first1=Ryan|title=The Undertaker def- Brock Lesnar|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2015-undertaker-vs-brock-lesnar-27682861|publisher=WWE|accessdate=20 July 2015}}</ref> At ], The Undertaker was defeated by Lesnar in a ] match after Lesnar hit him with a low-blow and delivered the third F-5 of the match.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Meltzer|first1=Dave|title=WWE Hell in a Cell live results: Brock Lesnar vs Undertaker, John Cena defends US Title (with updates on Alberto Del Rio)|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/wwe-hell-cell-live-results-brock-lesnar-vs-undertaker-john-cena-defends-us-title-updates|publisher=Wrestling Observer|accessdate=21 December 2015}}</ref> | |||
| Afterwards, Undertaker was given a standing ovation by the crowd, however he was attacked and ambushed by the entire ]. They then carried out the downed Undertaker from the ring.<ref>{{cite web|last=Martin|first=Adam|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-hell-in-a-cell-2015/56660-wwe-hell-in-a-cell-ppv-results-10-25-15-live-from-los-angeles|title=WWE Hell in a Cell PPV Results|date=October 25, 2015|accessdate=October 25, 2015|publisher=Wrestleview}}</ref> After ambushing and carrying Kane away on the following ''Raw'', Wyatt explained that he had claimed their souls.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/56669-wwe-raw-results-10-26-15-live-results-from-san-dieg|title=WWE RAW Results - 10/26/15|date=October 26, 2015|accessdate=October 26, 2015|publisher=Wrestleview}}</ref> On the November 9 episode of ''Raw'', The Brothers of Destruction returned and attacked The Wyatt Family, setting up a tag team match at ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/videos/the-undertaker-and-demon-kane-reemerge-to-unleash-hell-upon-the-wyatt-family-raw-28190849|title=The Undertaker and Demon Kane Return!|date=November 9, 2015|accessdate=November 10, 2015|publisher=WWE.com}}</ref> At the event, The Brothers of Destruction defeated Wyatt and Harper after The Undertaker hit Harper with a Tombstone Piledriver for the pinfall victory.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2015/undertaker-kane-wyatt-family-28201139|title=WWE Survivor Series 2015 Results: The Brothers of Destruction defeated The Wyatt Family|date=November 22, 2015|accessdate=November 23, 2015}}</ref> | |||
| == Undertaker character == | |||
| {{original research section|date=August 2015}} | |||
| {{BLP unsourced section|date=January 2016}} | |||
| ] | |||
| The Undertaker ] has two distinctly different identities: the "Deadman" and "The American Bad Ass". The "Deadman", Undertaker's first and foremost identity, is a ]-themed character of an ], ] and ] dark presence. Prone to ], The Deadman has a multitude of earmarks intended to induce feelings of terror in his opponents and fans alike. These earmarks range all across the board from a sit-up accompanied with a sharp hiss; rolling back eyes to hide the iris, giving his eyes a ghostly appearance; fast and furious head-turns; extended tongue displays; prestigious spooky entrances filled with smoke, fire and dramatic funeral dirge music; various coffin schemes; ]; disappearance and out-of-thin-air appearance acts; delivering ominous monologues amid blue dusk surroundings, etc. | |||
| As The "Deadman", Undertaker has three very distinguished forms of communication: | |||
| * Highly philosophical, deep and morbid in his verbal communication style, Undertaker often analyzes and explains the meaning of life, existence, reality, wisdom and death to his opponents in very technical terms. Much of his vocabulary and sentence structures recall Early Modern English, such as ''"Be not proud"'' and ''"For I shall strike down upon thee"''. He speaks of his wrestling matches in a ]ical sense as the ] service of his antagonists and his punishment as the seizing of their ]. To that end, most of The Undertaker's promos conclude with him delivering his most popular catch phrase, "]". All of his declarations are presented in dramatically low-pitced and menacing vocal tones. For further horror effect, The Undertaker will sometimes speak without present in the manner of an ] announcement amid blue dusk or total darkness. This is often done unexpectedly as he interrupts a series of events going on, usually involving his antagonist. | |||
| * Conversely, The Undertaker is full of ] as well: He often uses a decapitation gesture to signal his finisher the ''Tombstone Piledriver'', respond to insults, or accept challenges. Moreover, unaligned curled-up fingers and glove-pulling were common hand gesticulations when he was garbed in extended grey, and later purple gloves in his early stages. As another form of nonverbal communication, The Undertaker celebrates his victories in a one-knee victory kneel, originally used as a worship posture towards Paul Bearer's raising of the urn. | |||
| * The Undertaker's most dynamic form of communication is electrical and technologically-powered, making use of ], ]s, and mechanical techniques. This form of communication is typically designed to give the illusion that The Undertaker is a supernatural, controlling force, such as seen through his raising of lights ostensibly by his risen arms while bombing or thunder sound. Darkness, thunder, lightning, cloudy smoke, flickering lights, firecracker stunts, bell-tolling, a modified ] theme song, etc., are further examples of this, all indicative of The Undertaker's presence. | |||
| As part of the Deadman gimmick, The Undertaker has mysterious connections to a body of dark ]s dubbed "The ]s". The Druids are distinguished by their choir droning and black ]s that conceal them. They have factored into the Deadman's character by removing and treating him when sick or injured, returning him from lengthy disappearances, ] his presence, and general adding to his overall horror effect. | |||
| During the original Deadman era, The Undertaker shared a unique relationship with his fans, often referring to them as "Creatures of the Night". Whenever Paul Bearer had been deprived of his urn, used for reviving The Undertaker's strength during matches, a "rest in peace" chant by the live audience or "Creatures of the Night" was used as a substitute for reviving The Undertaker's strength. When this was cheered frantically, The Undertaker would often bounce back from a weakened state into a furious state of offense. | |||
| From May 2000 to November 2003, The Undertaker abandoned his horror-themed identity in favor of adopting the gimmick of a ], commonly referred to as "The American Bad Ass". This Undertaker wore ]s, leather or denim jackets, and often approached the ring riding a ]. As The American Bad Ass, Undertaker became more brash, rebellious, and arrogant than ever before. He used more profane language, occasionally used ], and often referred to the ring as "his yard". This gimmick ended at ], when he was buried alive by ]. Undertaker returned at ] to get revenge on Kane, with many of his original scare tactics associated with his Deadman persona. | |||
| In 1997, the Undertaker gimmick was embellished with a dramatic pre-wrestling personal life that enhanced the character with a youth ]. A key part of this backstory is the character's ]ic, ] half-brother, Kane, who was introduced in 1997 and has both feuded and allied (as a tag team called "]") with the Undertaker. | |||
| The Undertaker's ] at ], his most famed and exalted achievement, increasingly became a WrestleMania focus and driving point of his storylines. Over time, however, The Undertaker became less supernaturally impervious to pain, having to be stretchered out after his match at ],<ref name="UT vs. HHH" /> and eventually gaining a loss at the hands of ] at ]. | |||
| === Legacy === | |||
| The Undertaker was voted the greatest WWE wrestler ever in a 2013 ] poll.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Undertaker voted greatest WWE Superstar of all time|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/ustv/s216/wwe/news/a482978/the-undertaker-voted-greatest-wwe-superstar-of-all-time.html#~plW3SSuMcxWtpS|publisher=Digital Spy UK|accessdate=August 21, 2015}}</ref> In an ongoing WWE poll to determine the greatest performer of the company's ] ], he leads by a large margin as of December 2015.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/polls/greatest-superstar-smackdown-history|title=Who is the greatest Superstar in SmackDown history?|work=WWE}}</ref> He leads another live poll to determine the superstar most synonymous with the SmackDown brand.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/polls/wwe-superstar-most-synonymous-with-smackdown|title=Which WWE Superstar is most synonymous with SmackDown?|work=WWE}}</ref> In naming him the second greatest wrestler ever, ] described The Undertaker as, "one of the most respected wrestlers, and characters, in the business; treated with actual reverence. Like a cherished, invaluable artifact".<ref name="ign">{{cite web|url=http://uk.ign.com/articles/2012/11/02/top-50-wrestlers-of-all-time?page=5|title=Top 50 Wrestlers of All Time|date=November 2, 2012|work=IGN}}</ref> The Undertaker character is regarded by Luis Paez-Pumar of '']'' as "easily the best gimmick in the history of professional wrestling".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.complex.com/sports/2015/11/undertaker-10-best-matches-last-25-years/|title=The 10 Best Matches of 25 Years of the Undertaker - Complex UK|author=Luis Paez-Pumar|date=November 22, 2015|work=Complex UK}}</ref> | |||
| In an interview, ] called Undertaker the 'greatest athlete' in the business along with ].<ref>{{cite av media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vStU4Wsq5H0|title=Kane Interview: On Undertaker, Hell in a Cell, The Rock, Mick Foley, Steve Austin & his character|date=February 21, 2014|publisher=|via=YouTube}}</ref> Prominent wrestler ] considers The Undertaker to be the greatest professional wrestler of all time,<ref>{{cite av media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfc79EMt2Io&t=1m35s|title=Big Show Interview: On The Undertaker, Ultimate Warrior, leaving WWE, Hall of Fame|date=June 6, 2014|work=YouTube}}</ref> while ] and the Chairman of WWE, ] have named him as their favorite wrestler.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/whos-your-favorite-wrestlers-favorite-wrestler/page-8|title=Who’s your favorite wrestler’s favorite wrestler?|work=WWE}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.muscleandfitness.com/athletes-celebrities/interviews/wwe-chief-vince-mcmahon-still-making-gains?page=4&cc=GB|title=WWE Chief Vince McMahon Is Still Making Gains|work=Muscle & Fitness}}</ref> | |||
| WWE.com editors have placed The Undertaker at rank one in various retrospective listings, including "The 10 best WrestleMania performers ever".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/10-greatest-wrestlemania-performers/page-11|title=The 10 best WrestleMania performers ever|work=WWE}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/hellinacell/10-rulers-of-hell/page-11|title=WWE’s 10 rulers of 'Hell'|work=WWE}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/classic-lists/31-scariest-superstars/page-32|title=The 31 scariest Superstars ever!|work=WWE}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/10-best-manager-client-combinations/page-11|title=The 10 best manager-client combinations in sports-entertainment history|work=WWE}}</ref><ref>http://www.wwe.com/classics/classic-lists/the-30-best-big-men-in-wrestling-history/page-31</ref> He was selected to headline the first ever episode of '']'', defeating ], and is the only wrestler since that episode to still be part of the WWE roster.<ref name="youtube.com">{{cite av media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zWGZpcyHv2A|title=25 Numbers That Define The Undertaker|date=November 12, 2015|publisher=|via=YouTube}}</ref> Aside from his WrestleMania streak, The Undertaker has been given the record for the most victories at the ], ] and ] PPV events, which contribute to his overall record of the most victories ever at WWE PPVs.<ref>{{cite web|title=5 Superstars with the most pay-per-view wins: 5 Things|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1JrJvjgxkc|publisher=WWE|website=YouTube|date=August 13, 2015|accessdate=August 27, 2015}}</ref> The ] celebrated the career of The Undertaker. Various WWE products honoring his legacy have been produced by WWE.{{importance-inline}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.amazon.co.uk/Books-Undertaker-Years-Destruction-Sullivan-Kevin/dp/1465439420/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449352079&sr=8-1&keywords=undertaker+book|title=Undertaker: 25 Years of Destruction: Amazon.co.uk: Kevin Sullivan: 9781465439420: Books|publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=undertaker|title=Amazon.co.uk: undertaker|publisher=}}</ref> | |||
| The Undertaker is also associated with several stipulation matches that he is credited to have introduced and pioneered, including the ], ], the ], the ], and most notably ] match.{{Better source|reason=Citation is from the WWE company website; we need a more objective source.|date=February 2016}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/superstars/undertaker|title=Undertaker|work=WWE}}</ref> | |||
| Calaway was also a locker room leader and was even appointed as judge of "Wrestler's Court"- a kangaroo court formed as a way to self police the locker room.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uproxx.com/prowrestling/edge-and-christian-talk-kazoos-five-second-poses-and-wrestlers-court-on-the-stone-cold-podcast/|title=Edge And Christian Talk Kazoos, Five-Second Poses, And Wrestlers’ Court On The Stone Cold Podcast|work=UPROXX}}</ref> | |||
| In the 1990s, Calaway also started his own posse that consisted of fellow wrestlers ], ], ], ] and ]. The faction was called 'Bone Street Krew' and each member had the initials of the faction tattooed to themselves, with Undertaker's prominently being shown on his stomach.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/undertaker-bone-street-krew-bsk-history-28197200|title=The uncensored history of The Undertaker’s locker room group: The Bone Street Krew|work=WWE}}</ref> | |||
| ] mentioned Undertaker as having the most consecutive victories at ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=7s96CgAAQBAJ&pg=PA174&lpg=PA174&dq=undertaker+guinness+world+records&source=bl&ots=Cyr8dUnwrT&sig=2bHJaD3IGlk4ktrIH6NSb-yBmPQ&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjLoYnG15DKAhWGaRQKHaVYDWAQ6AEIRTAG#v=onepage&q=undertaker%20guinness%20world%20records&f=false|title=Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition 2016|publisher=}}</ref> | |||
| == Personal life == | |||
| Calaway married his first wife, Jodi Lynn, in 1989. They had a son, Gunner Vincent (born 1993). The marriage ended in 1999. Calaway married his second wife, Sara, in ] on July 21, 2000. In 2001, Sara made televised appearances with the ] (then known as the WWF) as part of a ] between Calaway and ], in which she was acknowledged as being Calaway's wife. The couple had two daughters together: Chasey (born November 21, 2002) and Gracie (born May 15, 2005). In 2007, he and Sara were divorced, and he became romantically linked to former wrestler ], whom he married on June 26, 2010 in Houston, Texas.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.co/viewnews.php?id=1277853725|last=Martin|first=Adam|title=Report: WWE stars wed this past week|work=WrestleView|date=June 29, 2010|accessdate=July 5, 2010}}</ref> On August 1, 2012, it was announced that they were expecting the couple's first child.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwinsider.com/article/70724/great-news-for-undertaker-.html?p=1|title=Undertaker and McCool Announcement|author=Mike Johnson|work=|publisher=PWInsider|accessdate=August 2, 2012}}</ref> Kaia Faith Calaway was born on August 29, 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestlingnewssource.com/news/26190/The-Undertaker--Michelle-McCool-Welcome-First-Child-Together/|title=the Undertaker & Michelle McCool Welcome First Child Together|publisher=Wrestlingnewssource.com|date=December 20, 2012|accessdate=February 23, 2013}}</ref> | |||
| Calaway invests in real estate with business partner Scott Everhart. Calaway and Everhart finished construction on a $2.7m building in ], called "The Calahart" (a portmanteau of their last names).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/news2006/1182096452.shtml|last=Martin|first=Adam|title=The Undertaker gets involved in real estate venture; his return to WWE|accessdate=August 21, 2007|date=June 17, 2007|publisher=WrestleView}}</ref> Calaway and his ex-wife Sara established The Zeus Compton Calaway Save the Animals fund at the ] to help pay for lifesaving treatments for large-breed dogs.<ref>, Accessed September 19, 2011. "The Zeus Compton Calaway Save the Animals Fund"</ref> | |||
| === Mixed martial arts and UFC involvement === | |||
| Calaway has trained under ] to earn a ]. | |||
| Calaway is an avid boxing fan and carried the ] while leading Team ] to the ring during the Pacquiao vs. Velázquez fight in 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/news2005/1125678703.shtml|last=Martin|first=Adam|title=the Undertaker to lead Pacquiao's entourage|publisher=WrestleView|date=September 2, 2005}}</ref> He was also in attendance at the Lennox Lewis vs Mike Tyson fight in 2002. | |||
| Calaway is also an avid ] fan and has attended several ] (UFC) shows, including a show where Calaway verbally confronted then UFC fighter ] after Lesnar lost to ], and his striking gloves and ''Hell's Gate'' submission (a modified ]) were also inspired by mixed martial arts. During a Calaway interview conducted by an internet show after ], Lesnar walked past him staring. Calaway answered Lesnar's stare by saying "You wanna do it?".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2010/10/24/wwes-undertaker-brock-lesnar-exchange-words-following-ufc-121/|title=WWE's Undertaker Confronts Brock Lesnar Following UFC 121|publisher=Mmafighting.com|date=July 14, 2011|accessdate=October 24, 2011}}</ref> | |||
| He is close friends of actor ] and mixed martial artists ], ], and ]. | |||
| ===Legal actions=== | |||
| In August 2015, Undertaker filed a lawsuit against rapper ] for using a part of his entrance theme as a sample for his song, "Wanna Know", which was also a diss track aimed towards his rival rapper ]. The wrestler claimed that the rapper used his theme without permission.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://huzlers.com/the-undertaker-sues-meek-mill-for-using-his-wwe-theme-song-in-drake-diss-track/|title=The Undertaker Sues Meek Mill For Using His WWE Theme Song In Drake Diss Track|author=Pharoah|date=July 31, 2015|work=Huzlers}}</ref> A WWE spokesperson stated that "WWE takes its intellectual property rights very seriously, and we're looking into the matter", with WWE concerned that Meek Mill did not respect such property rights.<ref>{{cite web|title=WWE Pissed Off Over Undertaker Entrance Song on Diss Track|url=http://www.tmz.com/2015/08/01/meek-mill-wwe-undertaker-entrance-song-wwe-drake-diss-song/#ixzz3hs8276Ho|website=]|accessdate=August 4, 2015}}</ref> | |||
| == Other media == | |||
| {{BLP unsourced section|date=July 2015}} | |||
| Calaway made his feature film debut as Hutch in the 1991 film '']''. He had guest roles on '']'' and '']''. In 2001, Calaway appeared out of character on the Canadian sports show '']''. | |||
| ] were a short series of comic books written by ] that were based on The Undertaker. | |||
| On August 1, 2K Games announced a special "Phenom Edition" for '']'' will include Undertaker-themed extras, including the "American Badass" playable character. | |||
| Calaway has also competed on 19 different WWE shows, which is more than any other WWE superstar. Also, he has appeared on 61 different PPV posters, the highest of any WWE superstar and 16 different video game covers, second only to ].<ref name="youtube.com"/> | |||
| == Filmography == | |||
| === Film === | |||
| {| class="wikitable sortable" | |||
| |- | |||
| ! Year | |||
| ! Title | |||
| ! Role | |||
| ! class="unsortable" | Notes | |||
| |- | |||
| | 1991 || '']'' || Hutch || | |||
| |- | |||
| | 1999 || '']'' || Himself || Documentary | |||
| |- | |||
| | 2015 || '']'' || The Undertaker || Voice | |||
| |} | |||
| === Television === | |||
| {| class="wikitable sortable" | |||
| |- | |||
| ! Year | |||
| ! Title | |||
| ! Role | |||
| ! class="unsortable" | Notes | |||
| |- | |||
| | 1994 || '']'' <ref>{{cite av media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_EgMsbpdc0|title=Undertaker On Regis & Kathy Lee 1994|date=April 9, 2009|publisher=|via=YouTube}}</ref> || The Undertaker || | |||
| |- | |||
| | 1999 || '']'' || Soul Chaser Demon || 2 episodes | |||
| |- | |||
| | 1999 || '']'' || The Undertaker || Episode: "The Con" | |||
| |- | |||
| | 1999 || '']'' || The Undertaker || Voice<br />Episode: "Halloween Episode I" | |||
| |- | |||
| | 2001 || '']'' <ref>{{cite av media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1SfwWMZz3Y|title=The Undertaker And Kane In America's Most Wanted|date=July 28, 2011|publisher=|via=YouTube}}</ref> || The Undertaker || | |||
| |- | |||
| | 2003 || '']'' <ref>{{cite av media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAN35n3mXzo|title=A Different Look at The Undertaker|date=September 12, 2008|publisher=|via=YouTube}}</ref> || Himself || | |||
| |- | |||
| | 2015 || '']'' <ref>{{cite av media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFiRImul_d0|title=The Undertaker Tombstones a Turkey|date=November 11, 2015|publisher=|via=YouTube}}</ref> || The Undertaker || | |||
| |} | |||
| == In wrestling == | |||
| ]'' on <!--THIS IS NOT EDGE, BUT ZACK RYDER IN HIS ROLE AS AN "EDGEHEAD".-->]]] | |||
| ]'' on <!--THIS IS NOT EDGE, BUT ZACK RYDER IN HIS ROLE AS AN "EDGEHEAD".-->]]] | |||
| ]'' on ]]] | |||
| ]'' on Lesnar]] | |||
| ] with '']'']] | |||
| * '''Finishing moves''' | |||
| <!-- Do NOT change the order of the moves, as they comply with Misplaced Pages's Manual of Style. --> | |||
| ** ''']''' | |||
| *** ]<ref name="WWEProfile">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/superstars/undertaker|title=Undertaker bio|publisher=]|accessdate=March 31, 2008}}</ref><ref name=OWWbio>{{cite web|title=Wrestler Profiles: the Undertaker|work=Online World of Wrestling|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/bios/u/the-undertaker/|accessdate=December 9, 2007}}</ref> – 1990–present; usually used as a signature move | |||
| *** ''Devil's Triangle''/''Hell's Gate''<ref name=jrblog>{{cite web|title=Jr's Blog/Said at Cyber Sunday|url=http://www.jrsbarbq.com/blog/florida-daze-raw-and-smackdown-thoughts}}</ref> (])<ref name="wrestlingdataprofile">{{cite web|title=Wrestling Data Profile|url=http://www.wrestlingdata.com/index.php?befehl=bios&wrestler=27}}</ref> – 2008–present | |||
| *** ''Last Ride''<ref name="WWEProfile" /> (], with theatrics)<ref name=OWWprofile>{{cite web|title=Wrestler Profiles: the Undertaker|work=Online World of Wrestling|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profiles/u/undertaker.html|accessdate=December 9, 2007}}</ref> – 2000–2003; used as a signature move thereafter | |||
| *** ''Tombstone Piledriver'' (]),<ref name="WWEProfile" /> most often followed by a ] – 1990–present | |||
| ** '''Early career''' | |||
| *** ''Callous Clutch''<ref name=Puroresu>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresucentral.com/calaway.html|title=Mark Calaway's profile|publisher=Puroresu Central}}</ref>/''Iron Claw''<ref name=OWWprofile /> (]) – used rarely as a signature move in WWF/E | |||
| *** ''Flatliner Fist''<ref name=PhenomForever>{{cite web|title=PhenomForever.com – Largest Undertaker Site On The Web|url=http://www.phenomforever.com/?page_id=895}}</ref> (])<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| *** ''Heatseeking Missile''<ref name=OWWprofile /> (]){{citation needed|date=September 2015}} | |||
| * '''Signature moves''' | |||
| <!-- Do NOT change the order of the moves, as they comply with Misplaced Pages's Manual of Style. --> | |||
| ** ], as a counter to an oncoming opponent<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| ** ] transitioned into a ] to the ring post | |||
| ** ]<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| ** ]<ref name=pwi100 /> – 1990–1999; used rarely thereafter | |||
| ** ]<ref name="wrestlingdataprofile" /> | |||
| ** ] to the opponent's midsection<ref name="pwi119" /> | |||
| ** Multiple ] variations<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| *** ]<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| *** ]<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| *** ]<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| ** ''Old School''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/results/9449292/?cid=2009EP-00|accessdate=March 2, 2009|date=February 27, 2009|title=No Cena Allowed|last=Burdick|first=Michael|publisher=]|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20090304051004/http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/results/9449292/?cid=2009EP-00|archivedate=March 4, 2009}}</ref> (])<ref name=OWWprofile /> – adopted from ]<ref name=OWOW>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/2009/04/06/oww-wrestler-of-the-week-undertaker/|accessdate=March 15, 2013|title=OWW Wrestler of the Week: Undertaker}}</ref> | |||
| ** ] | |||
| ** ]<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| ** ]<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| ** ] | |||
| ** ], sometimes to an ]<ref name=OWWprofile /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/five-very-european-maneuvers-for-antonio-cesaro-26058724/page-4|title=Five very European maneuvers for Antonio Cesaro: Guillotine leg drop|publisher=]}}</ref> | |||
| ** ]<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| ** ],<ref name="wrestlingdataprofile" /> followed by a ]<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| ** ''Soup Bones'' (Several ] and punches to the midsection of a cornered opponent, often finished with a ])<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| ** ''TCB – Takin' Care of Business''<ref name=PhenomForever /> (])<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| ** ]<ref name="OWWprofile" /><ref name="wrestlingdataprofile" /> – 2003–2006; used rarely thereafter | |||
| * ''']''' | |||
| ** ]<ref name="wrestlingdataprofile" /> | |||
| ** ] | |||
| ** ]/Percy Pringle III<ref name=cagematch.com /><ref name="accelerator" /> | |||
| ** ]<ref name="accelerator" /> | |||
| ** ]<ref name="accelerator" /> | |||
| ** ]<ref name="accelerator" /> | |||
| ** ]<ref name="cagematch.com" /><ref name="accelerator" /> | |||
| ** ]l<ref name="accelerator" /> | |||
| ** Sara<ref name=pwi108 /> | |||
| * '''Nicknames''' | |||
| ** "The American Bad-Ass"<ref name="cagematch.com" /> | |||
| ** "'''The Best Pure Striker in WWE/Sports-Entertainment History'''"<ref name="WWEProfile" /> | |||
| ** "Big Evil"<ref name="cagematch.com" /> | |||
| ** "'''The Cornerstone of the WWF/E'''"<ref name="WWEProfile" /> | |||
| ** "'''The Deadman'''"<ref name="WWEProfile" /> | |||
| ** "'''The Demon of Death Valley'''"<ref>{{cite web|title=the Undertaker's former opponents address The Phenom's return|url=http://www.wwe.com/undertakers-former-opponents-address-his-return-26096726|accessdate=March 7, 2013}}</ref> | |||
| ** "'''The (Grim) Reaper (of Lost Souls)'''" | |||
| ** "'''The Last Outlaw'''"<ref name=25oct2015>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/hellinacell/2015/undertaker-brock-lesnar-27952850/page-3 |title=Brock Lesnar def. The Undertaker (Hell in a Cell Match) |first=Anthony |last=Benigno |website=WWE.com |date=25 October 2015 |quote='''The Phenom''' stood before his kneeling Conqueror and flashed his demonic war face, only to be met with a booming low-blow that reduced '''The Last Outlaw''' to a writhing wretch on the mat.}}</ref> | |||
| ** "The Lord/Prince of Darkness"<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/listthis/maniamatches/maniamatches1|title='Mania Matches That Made Us Sweat: 1: Batista vs. Undertaker|publisher=]|accessdate=January 14, 2009}}</ref> | |||
| ** "'''The Master of Mind Games'''"<ref name="WWEProfile" /> | |||
| ** "'''The Phenom'''"<ref name="WWEProfile" /><ref name=25oct2015/> | |||
| ** "The Red Devil"<ref name="cagematch.com" /> | |||
| ** "The Weaver of Nightmares" | |||
| * ''']''' | |||
| <!-- Do NOT add made-up theme titles. --> | |||
| ** ''']''' | |||
| *** "Badlands" by ] (September 15, 1989 – December 1, 1989) | |||
| ** ''']''' | |||
| *** "China White" by ] (January 3, 1990 – February 24, 1990) | |||
| *** "Southern Rock" (February 25, 1990 – June 12, 1990) | |||
| *** "Heavenly Thunder" (June 13, 1990 – September 7, 1990) | |||
| ** ''']''' | |||
| *** "Miracle Man" by ] (March 2, 1990 – March 23, 1990) | |||
| ** ''']''' | |||
| *** "Funeral March" by ] (November 19, 1990 – January 22, 1994)<ref name="CageMusic" /> | |||
| *** "Grim Reaper" by Jim Johnston (August 29, 1994 - November 13, 1995)<ref name="CageMusic" /> | |||
| *** "Graveyard Symphony" by Jim Johnston (November 19, 1995 – July 20, 1998; January 11, 1999 – March 22, 1999)<ref name="CageMusic" /> | |||
| *** "Dark Side" by Jim Johnston (July 26, 1998 – December 13, 1998)<ref name="CageMusic" /> | |||
| *** "Ministry" by Jim Johnston (March 28, 1999 – September 23, 1999)<ref name="CageMusic" /> | |||
| *** "]" by ] (May 21, 2000 – December 4, 2000)<ref name="CageMusic" /> | |||
| *** "]" by ] (December 10, 2000 – May 6, 2002; March 30, 2003)<ref name="CageMusic" /> | |||
| *** "Dead Man Walking" by Jim Johnston (May 19, 2002 – September 19, 2002)<ref name="CageMusic" /> | |||
| *** "]" by Jim Johnston (September 22, 2002 – November 16, 2003)<ref name="CageMusic" /> | |||
| *** "''']'''" by Jim Johnston (March 14, 2004 – February 21, 2011; January 30, 2012 – present)<ref name="CageMusic">{{cite web|url=http://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=761&page=15|title=Undertaker's Themes}}</ref> | |||
| *** ] by ] (March 7, 2011 – April 3, 2011)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_48305.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE Raw results 3/7: Complete "virtual time" coverage of live Raw – Taker-Hunter stipulation, Stone Cold's TV return, WrestleMania hype, Cena-Rock|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=March 7, 2011|accessdate=March 8, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> | |||
| == Championships and accomplishments == | |||
| * ''''']''''' | |||
| ** ] (2015) | |||
| ** ] (1991) <small>vs. ]</small> | |||
| ** Feud of the Year (2015) <small>vs. ]</small> | |||
| ** ] (1998) <small>vs. ] in a ] match at ]</small> | |||
| ** Match of the Year (2009) <small>vs. ] at ]</small><ref>{{cite journal|year=2010|journal=]|volume=31|issue=3|pages=78–79|title=Pro Wrestling Illustrated}}</ref> | |||
| ** Match of the Year (2010) <small>vs. Shawn Michaels at ]</small> | |||
| ** Match of the Year (2012) <small>vs. ] in a Hell in a Cell match at ]</small> | |||
| ** Ranked #'''2''' of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the ] in 2002<ref>{{cite web|url=http://profightdb.com/pwi-500/2002.html|title=Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 for 2002|publisher=The Internet Wrestling Database|accessdate=August 25, 2015}}</ref> | |||
| ** Ranked #'''21''' of the top 500 singles wrestlers of the "PWI Years" in 2003 | |||
| * ''']''' | |||
| ** ] (])<ref name=OWWprofile /> | |||
| * ''']''' | |||
| ** ] (])<ref name="wcwa" /> | |||
| * ''']''' | |||
| ** ] (]) – with Kane{{Ref|1|1}}<ref> At wrestling-titles.com</ref> | |||
| ** ] (])<ref> At wrestling-titles.com</ref> | |||
| ** ] (]){{Ref|2|2}}<ref> At wrestling-titles.com</ref> | |||
| ** ] (])<ref> At wrestling-titles.com</ref> | |||
| ** ] (]) – with ] (1), ] (2), ] (1) and ] (2)<ref> At wrestling-titles.com</ref> | |||
| ** ] (]) | |||
| ** ]s (12 times) | |||
| *** Best Entrance Music (]) | |||
| *** Best Tattoo (1997) | |||
| *** Match of the Year (], ], ], ]) {{small|vs. Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XXV}}, {{small|vs. Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XXVI}}, {{small|vs Triple H in a Hell in a Cell match at WrestleMania XXVIII}} and {{small| vs. Brock Lesnar at Hell in a Cell}} | |||
| *** Moment of the Year (2010) {{small|vs. Shawn Michaels at ]}} | |||
| *** Most Intimidating (]){{citation needed|date=September 2015}} | |||
| *** OMG Moment of the Year (]) {{small|Kicking out of Triple H's '']'' at WrestleMania XXVII}} | |||
| *** Rivalry of the Year (2015) {{small|vs. Brock Lesnar}} | |||
| *** Star of the Highest Magnitude (1997) | |||
| *** WWF's Greatest Hit (]) <small>Sucking ] into the abyss at ]</small> | |||
| * ''''']''''' | |||
| ** ] (1997)<small> vs. Shawn Michaels in a Hell in a Cell match at ]</small> | |||
| ** ] (1990–1994)<ref name=WON2010 /> | |||
| ** ] (1991)<ref name=WON2010 /> | |||
| ** ] (2007) <small>vs. ]</small><ref name=WON2010 /> | |||
| ** ] (2009) <small>vs. Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XXV</small><ref name=WON2010 /> | |||
| ** Match of the Year (2010) <small>vs. Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XXVI</small><ref name=WON2010>{{cite journal|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|authorlink=Dave Meltzer|date=January 26, 2011|title=Biggest issue of the year: The 2011 Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards Issue|periodical=]|publication-place=Campbell, CA|pages=1–40|issn=10839593}}</ref> | |||
| ** ] (2001)<ref name=WON2010 /> | |||
| ** ] (2001)<ref name=WON2010 /> | |||
| ** ] (1993) <small>vs. ]</small><ref name=WON2010 /> | |||
| ** ] (2001) <small>with Kane vs. ] at ]</small><ref name=WON2010 /> | |||
| ** ] (Class of 2004) | |||
| * '''''Other''''' | |||
| ** Eyegore Award (2000) <ref>{{cite av media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3IqMaa4lKCw|title=THE UNDERTAKER accepts 2000 Eyegore Horror Award with explosive arrival|date=March 8, 2013|publisher=|via=YouTube}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.imdb.com/event/ev0001545/2000|title=Eyegore Award|publisher=}}</ref> | |||
| {{small|1 {{note|1}} Won during ].}}<br /> | |||
| {{small|2 {{note|2}} The Undertaker's fourth reign was as Undisputed WWE Champion.}} | |||
| === WrestleMania record === | |||
| {{See also|The Streak (wrestling)}} | |||
| {| class="wikitable sortable" style="background:#fcfdff; font-size:95%;" | |||
| |- | |||
| ! WM || Opponent || Record || Notes | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|01|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|01|1–0}} | |||
| |<ref name=legacy /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|02|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|02|2–0}} | |||
| |<ref name=legacy /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|03|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|03|3–0}} | |||
| |{{small|Won via ].}}<ref name=legacy /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|04|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|04|4–0}} | |||
| |<ref name=pwi92 /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|05|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|05|5–0}} | |||
| |<ref name=legacy /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|06|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|06|6–0}} | |||
| |{{small|For the ] in a ].}}<ref name=pwi98 /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|07|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|07|7–0}} | |||
| |<ref name=pwi100 /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|08|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|08|8–0}} | |||
| |{{small|] match.}}<ref>{{cite web|title=WrestleMania XV|work=Pro Wrestling History|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/supercards/usa/wwf/mania.html#XV|accessdate=December 9, 2007}}</ref> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|09|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|09|9–0}} | |||
| |<ref name=legacy /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|10|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|10|10–0}} | |||
| |{{small|No Disqualification match.}}<ref name=legacy /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|11|]}} | |||
| |] and ] | |||
| |{{sort|11|11–0}} | |||
| |{{small|].}}<ref name=legacy /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|12|]}} | |||
| |Kane | |||
| |{{sort|12|12–0}} | |||
| |<ref name=pwi115 /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|13|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|13|13–0}} | |||
| |<ref name=pwi117 /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|14|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|14|14–0}} | |||
| |{{small|].}}<ref name=legacy /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|15|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|15|15–0}} | |||
| |{{small|For the ].}}<ref>{{cite web|title=WrestleMania 23|work=Pro Wrestling History|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/supercards/usa/wwf/mania.html#23|accessdate=December 9, 2007}}</ref> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|16|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|16|16–0}} | |||
| |{{small|For the World Heavyweight Championship.}}<ref name="NoWayOut08" /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|17|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|17|17–0}} | |||
| |<ref name=legacy /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|18|]}} | |||
| |Shawn Michaels | |||
| |{{sort|18|18–0}} | |||
| |{{small|], no disqualification, ].}}<ref name="WM2010">{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/03/29/13391691.html|title=Undertaker ends Shawn Michaels' career in thrilling rematch to cap off Wrestlemania XXVI|date=March 29, 2010|last1=Plummer|first1=Dale|last2=Tylwalk |first2=Nick |accessdate=April 1, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=]}}</ref> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|19|]}} | |||
| |Triple H | |||
| |{{sort|19|19–0}} | |||
| |{{small|No Holds Barred match.}} | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|20|]}} | |||
| |Triple H | |||
| |{{sort|20|20–0}} | |||
| |{{small|Hell in a Cell match with Shawn Michaels as the ].}}<ref name="WWEEndofanEra" /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|21|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|21|21–0}} | |||
| |<ref name="wwe.com" /> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|22|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|22|21–1}} | |||
| |{{small|End of the Streak.}}<ref name="wm30streak">{{cite web |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestlemania-30-ppv-results/47773-the-undertaker-vs-brock-lesnar |title=the Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar |publisher=WrestleView.com |accessdate=April 7, 2014 |date=April 6, 2014}}</ref> | |||
| |- | |||
| |{{sort|22|]}} | |||
| |] | |||
| |{{sort|23|22–1}} | |||
| | | |||
| |} | |||
| === Luchas de Apuestas record === | |||
| {{See also|Lucha libre#Luchas de apuestas|l1=Luchas de Apuestas}} | |||
| {| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;" | |||
| |- | |||
| !width=20%|Winner (wager) | |||
| !width=20%|Loser (wager) | |||
| !width=20%|Location | |||
| !width=20%|Event | |||
| !width=15%|Date | |||
| !width=5%|Notes | |||
| |- style="text-align:center;" | |||
| |The Undertaker (]) || ] (career) || ] || ] || {{dts|2010|03|28}} || | |||
| |} | |||
| == References == | |||
| {{reflist|30em}} | |||
| == External links == | |||
| {{Portal|Professional wrestling}} | |||
| * {{Commons category-inline|Mark Calaway|The Undertaker}} | |||
| * {{wwe superstar|undertaker|The Undertaker}} | |||
| *{{facebook|undertaker}} | |||
| * {{IMDb name|id=0130587|name=Mark Calaway}} | |||
| {{Navboxes| | |||
| |list1= | |||
| {{The Undertaker}} | |||
| {{WWE personnel}} | |||
| {{WWE Championship}} | |||
| {{World Heavyweight Championship (WWE)}} | |||
| {{World Tag Team Championship (WWE)}} | |||
| {{WCW World Tag Team Championship}} | |||
| {{WWE Hardcore Championship}} | |||
| {{Royal Rumble winners}} | |||
| {{The Streak}} | |||
| }} | |||
| {{Authority control}} | |||
| {{DEFAULTSORT:Undertaker, The}} | |||
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