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Revision as of 17:38, 18 June 2007 view sourceUnqstnableTruth (talk | contribs)Extended confirmed users, Pending changes reviewers40,843 edits →2006-2007: rm unsourced← Previous edit Revision as of 19:15, 18 June 2007 view source Thedeadmanandphenom (talk | contribs)Extended confirmed users674 edits ereased everything because Mark Calaway(my friend) wished not to be viewed by other people.Next edit →
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His first mainstream exposure was in World Championship Wrestling (WCW). While there, he was known as '''"Mean" Mark Callous''' and wrestled as part of the ] tag team along with "Dangerous" ] and later as a singles wrestler. During his time in the Skyscrapers, he and Spivey were involved in a feud with the Road Warriors, but Spivey left before the feud came to an end. Calaway then took on the guidance of ] and muscled his way through guys like ] and ]. His most famous match in WCW was against ] for the ] at the ], which he lost when Luger pinned him after a ]. Despite his strong showing against Lex Luger, WCW declined to renew Calaway's contract, and he signed with the ] (WWF) in late October 1990. During that time, he also toured ]. His first mainstream exposure was in World Championship Wrestling (WCW). While there, he was known as '''"Mean" Mark Callous''' and wrestled as part of the ] tag team along with "Dangerous" ] and later as a singles wrestler. During his time in the Skyscrapers, he and Spivey were involved in a feud with the Road Warriors, but Spivey left before the feud came to an end. Calaway then took on the guidance of ] and muscled his way through guys like ] and ]. His most famous match in WCW was against ] for the ] at the ], which he lost when Luger pinned him after a ]. Despite his strong showing against Lex Luger, WCW declined to renew Calaway's contract, and he signed with the ] (WWF) in late October 1990. During that time, he also toured ].


==World Wrestling Federation/Entertainment ==
===1990-1994===
Calaway debuted in the ] as '''The Undertaker''' on ] ] at '']'' as the mystery partner of ]'s Million Dollar team.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/survivorseries90.html|title=Survivor Series 1990 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> About one minute into the match, Undertaker eliminated ] with his finisher, called the Tombstone Piledriver. After Survivor Series, Calaway was called '''Kane the Undertaker''' at several shows until "Kane" was dropped from his name, and he reverted back to simply "The Undertaker." (] later became the name for the Undertaker's ] half-brother.) The appearance of Undertaker was modeled after a ] from old ], with the ] being supposedly impervious to pain and possessing supernatural powers, such as teleportation and manipulation of flames and lightning. It was at this time that the Undertaker switched managers from ] to ].


In 1991, the Undertaker's ] grew rapidly. He made his '']'' debut at the ], defeating ] ].<ref name=legacy>{{cite web|url= http://www.wwe.com/superstars/smackdown/undertaker/wrestlemanialegacy/|title=WrestleMania Legacy|accessmonthday=]| accessyear=]}}</ref> After a year of B-main events with ] in body bag matches, ],<ref>{{citeweb|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam91.html|title=SummerSlam 1991 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> and ], he defeated Hogan at '']'' to win his first ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/survivorseries91.html|title=Survivor Series 1991 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> However, due to interference from ] during the match, WWE President ] ordered a rematch for '']'' six days later, where Undertaker lost the title back to Hogan.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/thistuesdayintexas.html|title=Tuesday in Texas Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> Between December 1991 and September 1993, the Undertaker did not lose a single match, the longest winning streak of the '90s.

Early in 1992, he had a falling out with ally ]. After Roberts lost a match on '']'' to ],<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/snme/920208.html|title=Saturday Night's Main Event - February 8, 1992 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Roberts tried to attack Savage's manager/wife ] with a steel chair. Undertaker stopped Roberts, thus turning ]. He went on to defeat Roberts at '']''.<ref name=legacy/> He feuded extensively with wrestlers managed by ] throughout 1992 and 1993, most notably ]<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam92.html|title=SummerSlam 1992 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/survivorseries92.html|title=Survivor Series 1992 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>, whom he faced and defeated in the first ] in WWE history at '']'', and ], whom he defeated by disqualification at '']''<ref name=legacy/> and by pinfall at '']''.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam93.html|title=SummerSlam 1993 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

In January 1994, he challenged then-WWF Champion ], facing him in two casket matches at the '']'' and '']'', where ] was special guest referee. At the ''Royal Rumble'', Yokozuna sealed Undertaker in the casket with the assistance of several other ] wrestlers, winning the match. The Undertaker's "spirit" appeared from inside the casket on the video screen, warning that he would return.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/royalrumble94.html|title=Royal Rumble 1994 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> This began Undertaker's first hiatus. In reality, he had a back injury that was getting worse, and he needed time off. An Undertaker "clone", dubbed "Underfaker" by the fans, appeared after '']'', played by ] and led by ]. This led to the resurrection of the real Undertaker and a battle at '']'' between the two, where the real Undertaker was victorious.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam94.html|title=SummerSlam 1994 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

===1995-1996===
Throughout most of 1995, the Undertaker was feuding with members of Ted DiBiase's ], including ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/royalrumble95.html|title=Royal Rumble 1995 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> and ]. At ], while Undertaker was facing Bundy, ] stole the Undertaker's source of power, the urn, and disrespected Taker by converting it into a large gold necklace.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/wrestlemania11.html|title=WrestleMania XI Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> The two faced each other in a casket match at ]. After putting on a great match, the Undertaker finally came out on top, closing the lid on Kama.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam95.html|title=SummerSlam 1995 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Several weeks later, the Undertaker was assaulted by ] and ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/1995.html|title=RAW 1995 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> which led to an injury of the eye orbital bone, forcing Undertaker into a period of absence for surgery. The Undertaker returned a while later wearing a ]-like ghostly grey upper facemask and defeated all of his competition.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/survivorseries95.html|title= Survivor Series 1995 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> In 2002-2003, ] wore a similar mask that was colored red and black.

The ] saw the unmasking of the Undertaker in a WWF Championship match against ]. ] interfered in the match, costing the Undertaker the championship.<ref>{{cite web| url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/royalrumble96.html|title=Royal Rumble 1996 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> One month later, while Diesel was facing Hart in a steel cage match, Undertaker came up from under the ring to drag Diesel underneath, allowing Hart the victory.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/inyourhouse6.html|title=In Your House 6: Rage in the Cage Results|date= May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> This led to a match between the two giants at ], in which the Undertaker was victorious.<ref name=legacy>

An even more notable feud involving the Undertaker commenced the very next night, when ] made his debut, interfering in the Undertaker's match with ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/1996.html|title=RAW 1996 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> For the next few months, Mankind would ambush and cost the Undertaker several matches.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/inyourhouse8.html|title=In Your House 8: Beware of the Dog Results|date= May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> The Undertaker faced Mankind for the very first time at the ], where he lost against "The Deranged One".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/kingofthering96.html|title=King of the Ring 1996 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

The Undertaker's feud with Mankind grew more intense. They began taking their battles into crowds and backstage areas. The two also fought in the boiler room areas of different arenas. As a result, these events lead up to the first ever ] match between the two at ]. Undertaker nearly won the match by using the ropes to fling Mankind off the edge of the ring apron. However, when Undertaker reached for the urn, Bearer hit him with it, turning on the Undertaker and allowing Mankind to incapacitate the Undertaker with the Mandible Claw, giving him the win.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam96.html|title=SummerSlam 1996 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

After Paul Bearer's betrayal, the Undertaker took his rivalry with Mankind to a new level, resulting in a ] at ]. Undertaker won the match after a Chokeslam into the open grave, but after interference from ], as well as the help of several other superstars, The Undertaker was ultimately "Buried Alive".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/inyourhouse11.html|title=In Your House: Buried Alive Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

As a result, a match was made at the upcoming Survivor Series, again pitting the Undertaker against Mankind, with a unique stipulation. Hanging 20ft 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 Paul Bearer. Even though Undertaker won the match, interference from The Executioner enabled Paul Bearer to escape the Undertaker's clutches.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/survivorseries96.html|title=Survivor Series 1996 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

The Undertaker then briefly turned his attention to The Executioner, who had become a thorn in his side since his arrival. At the following Pay-Per-View, the Undertaker finally did away with the masked Executioner.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/inyourhouse12.html|title=In Your House 12 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Towards the end of 1996 the Undertaker began feuding with another of Paul Bearer's minions, Vader, culminating in a loss to Vader at the Royal Rumble after interference from Paul Bearer.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/royalrumble97.html|title=Royal Rumble 1997 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

After this loss, the Undertaker began to focus his attention on the WWF Championship.

===1997-1999===
]

In 1997, the night before ], The Undertaker won three awards at the ]: Best Tattoo, Best Entrance Music, and Highest Magnitude. At ], The Undertaker won his second ] from ] at ] in a ].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/wrestlemania13.html |title=WrestleMania 13 Results| date=May 1, 2007}}</ref> After WrestleMania 13, Paul Bearer revealed that the Undertaker had burned his family's house, killing everyone except his brother. He announced that Undertaker's brother was still alive, waiting for revenge all these years. In defense, Undertaker responded that ], a pyromaniac, had set the fire and that his brother could not have survived.

Meanwhile, a number of wrestlers pursued Undertaker's title, including Vader,<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/inyourhouse16.html|title=In Your House: Canadian Stampede Results|date= May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> ],<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/kingofthering97.html|title=King of the Ring 1997 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> and ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/inyourhouse15.html|title=In Your House: A Cold Day in Hell Results|date= May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> At ], referee ] accidentally hit Undertaker with a steel chair shot meant for Bret Hart, costing the Undertaker his WWF Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam97.html|title=SummerSlam 1997 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Although the chair shot was accidental, Michaels repeated this with added taunting in the oncoming weeks on '']''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/1997.html|title=RAW 1997 Results|date =May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> This led to two well-received matches at ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/inyourhouse17.html|title=In Your House: Ground Zero Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> and ], where the Undertaker challenged Michaels to the first ever infamous ] Match.

During this match, Undertaker's ] brother ] made his debut, ripping off the door to the cell and then giving Undertaker a ], Undertaker's trademark finisher, allowing Michaels to pin him.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/inyourhouse18.html|title=In Your House: Badd Blood Results|date=May 1| Year=2007}}</ref> During the next few weeks, Paul Bearer and Kane often challenged the Undertaker to fight his brother, but these challenges were refused consistently by the Undertaker. The Undertaker's final encounter with Michaels was in the return of the casket match at the ]. Again, Kane cost the Undertaker the win by trapping him in the coffin. Kane then went on to padlock the casket lid and set it ablaze. However, The Undertaker had disappeared when the casket lid was opened.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/royalrumble98.html|title=Royal Rumble 1998 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

After a two-month hiatus, Undertaker returned to challenge and successfully defeat Kane at ] with three Tombstone Piledrivers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/wrestlemania14.html|title= WrestleMania XIV Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> The two had a rematch in the first ever ] one month later at ], where the ring was surrounded by fire and the only way for a competitor to win was to set his opponent on fire. The Undertaker won by setting Kane's right arm on fire.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/inyourhouse21.html|title=In Your House: Unforgiven Results|date=May 1| Year=2007}}</ref> Undertaker's longtime feud with Mankind was renewed afterwards, on an episode of ''RAW'', when Mankind cost the Undertaker a number one contenders match against Kane.<ref name=1998results>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/1998.html|title=RAW 1998 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> As a result, Undertaker and Mankind faced each other in a Hell in a Cell match at ].

In one of the most memorable matches in professional wrestling history, Undertaker threw Mankind off the roof of the sixteen foot cell onto the ] below. He later chokeslammed Mankind through the roof of the cell into the ring and finally finished the match by back dropping and chokeslamming Mankind onto a pile of thumbtacks.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/kingofthering98.html|title=King of the Ring 1998 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> The Undertaker was able to compete in the match even while sporting a legitimate broken foot. <small>(For more, see ]).</small>

In July 1998 at ], Undertaker and ] defeated Kane and Mankind to win the ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/inyourhouse23.html|title=In Your House: Fully Loaded Results|date=May 1| Year=2007}}</ref> Undertaker and Austin did not work well as a team during the match and their title defenses and their reign as tag champions lasted for only two weeks, as Kane and Mankind regained the titles on an episode of ''RAW''.<ref name=1998results/> Undertaker then became the #1 Contender for the WWF Championship at ], now held by Austin. However, shortly before SummerSlam, Undertaker revealed that he and Kane were together as brothers. During the match, Undertaker told Kane that he would defeat Austin on his own, and even though Undertaker did not win the match, he handed Austin his belt back after the match in a show of respect.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam98.html|title=SummerSlam 1998 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

However, in September, Undertaker began to show heel characteristics, becoming a ], when he and Kane revealed the fact that they were in cahoots to rid Austin of his title for ]. At ], Undertaker faced both Austin and Kane for Austin's WWF title. Undertaker and Kane pinned Austin simultaneously after a double chokeslam,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/breakdown98.html|title=In Your House: Breakdown Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> so the title was vacated by Mr. McMahon, whose leg was then (kayfabe) broken by the brothers. This led to a match at ] between the two brothers for the title, with Stone Cold as the Special Guest Referee. Near the end of the match, Paul Bearer came to the ring and asked Kane if he could hit Undertaker with a steel chair, but as Kane had his back turned, Bearer hit Kane with the chair, which gave the Undertaker the opportunity to hit Kane in the head with that chair, hinting of a reunion between Undertaker and Bearer. Undertaker went for the pin, but Austin, in typical Stone Cold fashion, refused to count the fall, attacked the Undertaker, and counted out both brothers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/judgementday98.html| title=In Your House: Judgment Day Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Finally, Undertaker turned heel the next night on ''RAW is WAR'' for the first time in over six years, reconciling with Paul Bearer and claiming that he and Bearer would unleash their ] on the World Wrestling Federation. He also coldly admitted that he had indeed set the fire that killed his parents for which he had previously blamed Kane.<ref name=1998results/> The Undertaker participated in The "Deadly Games" tournament at ]. After receiving a bye in the first round, The Undertaker defeated Kane in the quarterfinals. However, he lost to The Rock in the semifinals by disqualification when Kane interfered by chokeslamming The Rock.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/survivorseries98.html|title=Survivor Series 1998 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref>

After Survivor Series, Undertaker turned his attention to Austin for costing him the title at Judgment Day, viciously smashing Austin in the head with a shovel during a match with ], returning the favor for what happened a month earlier. ] scheduled a ] between Undertaker and Austin in December 1998 at ]. In the weeks leading up to Rock Bottom, Undertaker became increasingly demonic and sadistic, attempting to embalm Austin alive and even having his druids chain Austin to his symbol (a crucifix) and having it raised high into the arena.<ref name=1998results/> However, Undertaker lost the match after Kane interfered.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/rockbottom98.html|title=In Your House: Rock Bottom Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

In January 1999, Undertaker returned, remaining a monster heel and forming the ], explaining that he was taking orders from a "Higher Power." Eventually, the Ministry merged with ]'s ] heel stable to form the Corporate Ministry.<ref name=1999results>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/1999.html|title=RAW 1999 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> During this time, The Undertaker went on to defeat Austin for his third WWF Championship at ] with help from Shane McMahon, the special referee.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/overtheedge99.html|title=In Your House: Over the Edge 1999 Results|date= May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Two weeks later, it was revealed on ''RAW'' that Vince McMahon had been the Undertaker's "Higher Power" all along. After Undertaker lost the WWF title back to Austin one night after ]<ref name=1999results/> and a brutal ] at ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/fullyloaded99.html|title=Fully Loaded 1999 Results|date=May 1| Year=2007}}</ref> however, his relationship with the McMahons dissolved, and the Corporate Ministry disbanded.

Undertaker then started aiming for the ], teaming with ]. He was scheduled to perform at ], contending for the WWF Championship. However, a groin injury knocked him out of action for the remainder of the year and part of the next. His absence was explained by The Undertaker's statement to Vince McMahon that he quit.

===2000-2001===
Undertaker was due to return to action for ], but a bicep injury in February 2000 delayed his return until May 2000.

Undertaker's gimmick was dramatically modified when he returned in May 2000 at ], inadvertently costing ] the WWF Championship to ],<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/judgementday00.html|title=Judgment Day 2000 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> in line with wrestling's change to a more realistic approach. His gimmick became that of an intimidating biker. Along with the gimmick change, Undertaker also began using the Last Ride (]) as his finishing move, as opposed to the Tombstone Piledriver which had become synonymous with the Undertaker over the years. He was referred to as the "American Bad Ass." Unlike many gimmick changes with little or no explanation, this was generally well-received by fans, since it reflected his real-life personality.

At Judgment Day 2000, Undertaker took out all the members of the ], quickly turning face again. He went on to continue targeting their leader, ] Triple H. At ], Undertaker teamed with the Rock and Kane to defeat the team of Triple H, Shane McMahon, and Vince McMahon.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/kingofthering00.html|title=King of the Ring 2000 Results| date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Afterwards, he teamed with Kane to contend for the ]. They defeated ], earning the right to face them the following week for the tag titles. However, Edge and Christian retained the titles. Kane ] on The Undertaker by chokeslamming him twice on the August 14 ''Monday Night RAW'',<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/2000.html|title=RAW 2000 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> which led to another match between the two at ]. That match ended in a no-contest as Kane ran from the ring area after The Undertaker removed Kane's mask.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam00.html|title=SummerSlam 2000 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

Undertaker challenged ] for the WWF Championship at ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/survivorseries00.html|title=Survivor Series 2000 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Angle gained the win over Undertaker following interference from Kurt's real life brother ]. Undertaker demanded and was awarded a spot in the six man ] Match for the ] at ]. Undertaker did not emerge victorious but highlighted the match by throwing one of the other competitors, ], off the roof of the cell.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/armageddon00.html|title=Armageddon 2000 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

In 2001, Undertaker reunited with Kane as the ] and contested for the WWF Tag Team Championship once again. They received a shot at the Tag Titles at ], facing Edge and Christian and then-champions the ] in a ]. The Brothers of Destruction dominated almost the entire match but were not victorious.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/nowayout01.html|title=No Way Out 2001 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

Undertaker defeated Triple H at ] and improved his WrestleMania winning streak to 9-0.<ref name=legacy /> He and Kane continued to focus on Triple H, who formed a surprise alliance with WWF Champion ]. After Austin and Triple H injured Kane's arm, the Brothers of Destruction were granted an opportunity to face Triple H and Austin. Undertaker and Kane managed to win the WWF Tag Titles from Edge & Christian<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/010419.html|title=SmackDown - April 19 2001 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> and the right to face Triple H and Austin. At ], Triple H pinned Kane after attacking him with a sledgehammer, and the Brothers of Destruction lost the titles.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/backlash01.html|title=Backlash 2001 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> With Kane injured, Undertaker began targeting Steve Austin and his WWF Championship. At ], Undertaker lost to Austin.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/judgementday01.html| title=Judgment Day 2001 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

As part of the 2001 ] angle, The Undertaker's next nemesis was ]. Page was obsessively following The Undertaker's wife ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/kingofthering01.html|title=King of the Ring 2001 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> At ], ] Undertaker and Kane defeated Page and his partner ] in a ] to win the ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam01.html| title=SummerSlam 2001 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> They were the first team to hold both the WCW and WWF tag team titles simultaneously.

At ], Undertaker teamed up with Kane, the Rock, ], and ] to take on The Alliance's ], ], ], ], and ]. Angle pinned the Undertaker due to interference by Austin.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/survivorseries01.html|title=Survivor Series 2001 Results|date=May 1| Year=2007}}</ref> After the Alliance was defeated, The Undertaker turned heel 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|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> This was the beginning of a new persona for the Undertaker, as he cut his famous long hair short and now called himself '''Big Evil'''. At ], the Undertaker beat Van Dam to capture the ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/vengeance01.html|title=Vengeance 2001 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

===2002-2003===
At the ], ] eliminated The Undertaker by dropkicking him from behind. Subsequently, The Undertaker eliminated Maven in return and brutally assaulted him backstage.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/royalrumble02.html|title=Royal Rumble 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> 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 #1 contendership for the ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/020124.html|title=SmackDown - January 24 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> Their feud continued, with The Rock costing The Undertaker his match with Maven for the Hardcore Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/020207.html|title=SmackDown - February 7 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> The two faced off at ], but The Undertaker lost due to interference from Ric Flair.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/nowayout02.html|title=No Way Out 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Flair declined a challenge to wrestle Undertaker at ],<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/020218.html|title=RAW - February 18 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> and, as a result, Undertaker assaulted his son ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/020304.html|title=RAW - March 4 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Ric Flair eventually accepted the match after the Undertaker threatened to inflict the same punishment on Flair's daughter.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/020307.html|title=SmackDown - March 7 2002 Results|date =May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> A no disqualification stipulation added, The Undertaker emerged with the win, improving his WrestleMania record to 10-0.<ref name=legacy/>

Undertaker defeated ] at ] to win the #1 contendership for the WWF Undisputed Championship. Later that night, he helped ] win his title match against Undisputed Champion ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/backlash02.html|title =Backlash 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> The Undertaker went on to defeat Hogan for his fourth world championship at ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/judgementday02.html|title=Judgment Day 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

Undertaker soon turned face after he faced ] in a ], raising Hardy's hand after the match as a sign of respect.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/020701.html|title=RAW - July 1 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> However, Undertaker lost his title at ] to The Rock in a ] that also involved Kurt Angle, although he was not even pinned.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/vengeance02.html|title= Vengeance 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> When contracts were open during the end of the feud between McMahon and Flair, The Undertaker switched from ''RAW'' to ''SmackDown!'', alongside former ''RAW'' talent ], ], and ]. After defeating ] at ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam02.html|title=SummerSlam 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> Undertaker challenged Brock Lesnar in a title match at ], but the match ended in a double-DQ.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/unforgiven02.html|title= Unforgiven 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Their feud carried over to ] in a Hell in a Cell Match. Undertaker worked the match with a broken hand and eventually lost to the champion.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/nomercy02.html|title=No Mercy 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Undertaker then suffered a kayfabe injury after the Big Show threw him off the stage in Memphis, sparking a feud.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/021024.html|title=SmackDown - October 24 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

The Undertaker returned at the ] drawing #30, but he was the last man eliminated by Brock Lesnar.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/royalrumble03.html|title=Royal Rumble 2003 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> He then continued his feud with Big Show and defeated Show via submission at ]. ] attempted to attack Taker after the match, but ] came to The Undertaker's aid.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/nowayout03.html|title=No Way Out 2003 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> 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/> However, Jones was removed prior to the match, making it a handicap match, which Undertaker won with the help of Jones, improving his WrestleMania record to 11-0.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/wrestlemania19.html|title=WrestleMania XIX Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

Undertaker went on to feud against the ], ],<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/030410.html|title=SmackDown-April 10 2003 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> ],<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam03.html|title=SummerSlam 2003 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> ], and ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/030828.html|title=SmackDown-August 28 2003 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> He had two ] opportunities over the course of the year. The first, on the ] ] ''SmackDown!'', against Kurt Angle, ended in a no contest.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/030904.html|title=SmackDown-September 4 2003 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> The second, at ], was a Biker Chain Match between Undertaker and Lesnar. With the help of Vince McMahon, Lesnar won,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/nomercy03.html| title=SmackDown-October 24 2002 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> making it his second straight successful No Mercy WWE Title match against Undertaker.
At ], Undertaker lost his Buried Alive Match against Vince McMahon when Kane interfered.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/survivorseries03.html|title=Survivor Series 2003 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> After The Undertaker disappeared for some time following the match, Kane claimed 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|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

===2004-2005===
In the weeks leading up to ], Kane was haunted by vignettes proclaiming an Undertaker return. The first was during the ] when Undertaker's bells tolled, distracting Kane and allowing ] to eliminate him.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/royalrumble04.html |title=Royal Rumble 2004 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

At WrestleMania XX, the Undertaker finally returned, using the ''Deadman'' persona, again accompanied by Paul Bearer, and he defeated Kane.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/wrestlemania20.html|title=WrestleMania XX Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> This persona could be best described as a hybrid of the classic Undertaker and the American Bad Ass. Three months later, Paul Bearer was kidnapped by the ] at the direction of ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/040527.html|title=SmackDown-May 27 2004 Results|date= May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> who then took "control" of Undertaker in the storyline.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/040617.html|title=SmackDown-June 17 2004 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> At ], Undertaker was forced to fight a handicap match against the Dudleys; and if he lost, Paul Heyman would bury Paul Bearer in cement. The Undertaker won but buried Bearer anyway, explaining that Bearer was merely a liability now and that he had no use for Bearer anymore.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/greatamericanbash04.html|title=The Great American Bash 2004 Results|date= May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Fans were later told that Bearer was "seriously injured," but in reality, he was simply removed from WWE programming due to health reasons. The Undertaker would also remain as a face.

After defeating the Dudley Boyz, Undertaker challenged WWE Champion ] to a title match at ], where Undertaker lost when he disqualified himself.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam04.html|title=SummerSlam 2004 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> At ], Undertaker and JBL competed in the first ever "Last Ride" match, although Undertaker lost after ] interfered.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/nomercy04.html|title=No Mercy 2004 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> After taking care of Heidenreich,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/survivorseries04.html |title=Survivor Series 2004 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Undertaker turned his focus to the WWE Championship once again. Along with ] and ], he challenged Bradshaw to a championship rematch at ]. The match turned into a Fatal Four Way, in which Undertaker was unsuccessful, again due to Heidenreich's interference.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/armageddon04.html| title=Armageddon 2004 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> This led to a Casket Match between Undertaker and Heidenreich at the ], where Undertaker sealed Heidenreich in a casket for the victory.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/royalrumble05.html|title=Royal Rumble 2005 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref>

Soon afterward, ] challenged The Undertaker to a match at ], claiming that he would be the one to end The Undertaker's WrestleMania winning streak.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/050307.html|title=RAW-March 7 2005 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Even with help from his father ], Randy failed, and the Undertaker improved his WrestleMania record to 13-0.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/wrestlemania21.html|title=WrestleMania 21 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Following WrestleMania, Undertaker took a two month hiatus from wrestling after the birth of his second daughter in late May 2005.

He returned for the ] episode of '']'' but lost to John Bradshaw Layfield, thanks to interference from Randy Orton.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/050616.html |title=SmackDown-June 16 2005 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> General Manager ] booked ] in a match against Undertaker at ], where he defeated Hassan<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/greatamericanbash05.html|title=The Great American Bash 2005 Results|date= May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> in Hassan's last match in WWE. As a result of the win, he became #1 contender to the ]. However, ] felt that he should be #1 contender. On the following ''SmackDown!'', Undertaker lost a #1 contender match against JBL, once again due to interference from Randy Orton.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/050728.html|title=SmackDown-July 28 2005 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> With this, Undertaker resumed his feud with Orton.

At ], Undertaker and Randy Orton had a WrestleMania rematch, which Orton won.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/summerslam05.html|title=SummerSlam 2005 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> After weeks of their feud building up, Undertaker defeated Randy on the second episode of ''Friday Night SmackDown!''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/050916.html|title=SmackDown-September 16 2005 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> The two taunted each other with caskets, leading to a casket match, in which Undertaker lost to Randy and his father "Cowboy" Bob Orton, at ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/nomercy05.html|title=No Mercy 2005 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> After the match, the Ortons poured gasoline on the casket and set it afire, much like Kane did in 1998. However, when the charred casket was opened, Undertaker had once again vanished. He then made a dramatic return at the ], emerging from a burning casket.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/survivorseries05.html|title=Survivor Series 2005 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref>

Despite a controversial attack involving ]'s lowrider on the ], ] ''SmackDown!'' special,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/051129.html|title=SmackDown Special-November 29 2005 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Undertaker returned on ''SmackDown!'' to haunt Orton and set up a ] match at ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/051202.html|title=SmackDown-December 2 2005 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> After winning the Hell in a Cell match,<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/armageddon05.html|title=Armageddon 2005 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Calaway took a short hiatus from wrestling.

===2006-2007===
At the ], Undertaker returned during ]'s celebration of his world title defense against ]. He entered on a horse drawn cart and made his intentions known by destroying the ring with lightning bolts.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/royalrumble06.html|title=Royal Rumble 2006 Results|date=May 1| Year=2007}}</ref> Undertaker lost his match with Kurt Angle at ] after a gruelling thirty minute bout. Undertaker cornered Angle after the match, and after a stare down, told Angle that he had his number and that he was not finished with him yet.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/nowayout06.html| title=No Way Out 2006 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

The Undertaker had his No Way Out rematch for the ] against Angle on ''SmackDown!''. ] attacked Undertaker from behind, costing him the title.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/060303.html|title=SmackDown-March 3 2006 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Undertaker challenged Mark Henry to a Casket Match at ], and Henry, like Orton a year before him, vowed to end Undertaker's WrestleMania winning streak.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/060331.html|title=SmackDown-March 31 2006 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Undertaker defeated Mark Henry to become 14-0 at WrestleMania, keeping his undefeated streak alive.<ref name=legacy/> During a rematch on the ] edition of ''SmackDown!'', ] made his debut and began an assault on the Undertaker.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/060407.html|title=SmackDown-April 7 2006 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

The Undertaker was not heard from until the ] edition of ''SmackDown!'', as Teddy Long delivered a challenge from 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|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Undertaker would go on to lose the match to Khali<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/judgementday06.html|title=Judgment Day 2006 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> and did not appear again until the ] edition of ''SmackDown!'' to accept Khali's challenge to a ] at ].<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/060704.html|title=SmackDown-July 4 2006 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> Khali was removed from the match, due to elevated liver enzymes, and replaced by ] ], over whom The Undertaker gained the victory. In the ], Teddy Long replaced Khali with Big Show as punishment for an attack on Undertaker shortly before the match.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/greatamericanbash06.html|title=The Great American Bash 2006 Results|date= May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> Khali was then challenged to a ] at ] after interfering in Undertaker's match with ] ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/060804.html|title=SmackDown-August 4 2006 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> After Khali refused the challenge for SummerSlam, Teddy Long made the match official for the ] episode of ''SmackDown!'' instead. 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|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> After his victory, Undertaker was not seen for several weeks.

The Undertaker returned to face ] ] at ] but was disqualified after he hit Kennedy with the championship belt.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/nomercy06.html|title=No Mercy 2006 Results|date=May 1|Year =2007}}</ref> On the ] edition of ''SmackDown!'', Undertaker reunited with ] to form the ] for the first time in five years, defeating the reluctant opposition team of Mr. Kennedy and ], with whom Kane was feuding at the time.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/061103.html|title=SmackDown-November 3 2006 Results|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref> Undertaker lost against Mr. Kennedy in a ] at ], due to interference from MVP,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/survivorseries06.html| title=Survivor Series 2006 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> but finally defeated Kennedy in a ] at ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/armageddon06.html|title=Armageddon 2006 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>

The two continued to fight into 2007 as Kennedy cost Undertaker two ] 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|date=May 1|Year= 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/070119.html|title=SmackDown-January 19 2007 Results|date=May 1|Year=2007}}</ref>
At the Rumble, in his eighth attempt, Undertaker won his first Royal Rumble match, when Shawn Michaels attempted to Sweet Chin Music Undertaker to eliminate him, Undertaker ducked and lifted Michaels over the top rope for the victory. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/royalrumble07.html|title=Royal Rumble 2007 Results|date= May 1|Year=2007}}</ref> and becoming the first man to enter the Rumble at No. 30 and go on to win the match.<ref> - A Phenom-enal Rumble, By Louie Dee, ], ]</ref> He then challenged and defeated ] at ] to win his first World Heavyweight Championship, ten years after he defeated ] for the ] at WrestleMania 13. By defeating Batista, Undertaker's undefeated streak at WrestleMania advanced to 15-0. The ''SmackDown!'' after ''WrestleMania'', Batista entered the ring and declared to The Undertaker that he wanted a rematch. Their rematch would be a ] at ]. The Last Man Standing match ended in a draw when neither man was able to answer the ten-count after Batista speared Undertaker off the entrance stage, causing the steel pillars on top of the champ and Batista which neither could then answer a ten count. The draw resulted in Undertaker retaining the title.

On the ] ] '']'' taping in ], Undertaker fought in a steel cage match with Batista that resulted in a draw when both men's feet touched the floor at the same time. After the match, ] returned and assaulted the defenseless Undertaker. Immediately after the assault, ] cashed in his ] title shot, and defeated him for the ]. Edge returned to the ring and hit Undertaker with the Money in the Bank briefcase. As he laid in the ring, druids appeared and carried Undertaker to the backstage area. Though only marginally mentioned onscreen by ] and ], The Undertaker tore his right biceps off the bone, and will be out for 5 months.


==Legacy== ==Legacy==

Revision as of 19:15, 18 June 2007

United States Mark Calaway
Born (1965-04-24) April 24, 1965 (age 59)
Houston, Texas
Professional wrestling career
Ring name(s)The Undertaker
The Punisher
"Mean" Mark Callous
Texas Red
The Commando
Punisher Dice Morgan
Kane the Undertaker
Billed height6 ft 10 in (2.08 m)
Billed weight
Billed fromDeath Valley (1990-1999, 2004-present)
Houston, Texas (1984-1990, 2000-2003)
Trained byDon Jardine
Debut1984

Mark Calaway (born March 24, 1965) is an American real estate investor and professional wrestler, better known by the ring name The Undertaker. He is currently signed to World Wrestling Entertainment wrestling on its SmackDown! brand but is currently inactive due to an injury.

As of 2007, Calaway is one of the longest-tenured performers in WWE, having joined in 1990.

Before coming to World Wrestling Entertainment, Calaway began his wrestling career with World Class Championship Wrestling in 1984. He joined World Championship Wrestling in 1989. When WCW never renewed Calaway's contract at the end of 1990, he joined World Wrestling Entertainment (then known as the World Wrestling Federation) in November of that year.

He is undefeated at WrestleMania and is a five-time World Champion; four times as WWF/E Champion, and a one-time World Heavyweight Champion. He is also the winner of the 2007 Royal Rumble.

Early career

Calaway was trained as a professional wrestler by Don Jardine in 1984 at World Class Championship Wrestling. He received his trainings in WCCW for four years. In 1988, he left for Central Illinois Wrestling and worked there for a year. In 1989, he wrestled in Championship Wrestling Association/USWA Memphis where he wrestled as the masked "The Punisher". He also wrestled for USWA Texas and then left for World Championship Wrestling.

World Championship Wrestling (1989-1990)

His first mainstream exposure was in World Championship Wrestling (WCW). While there, he was known as "Mean" Mark Callous and wrestled as part of the Skyscrapers tag team along with "Dangerous" Dan Spivey and later as a singles wrestler. During his time in the Skyscrapers, he and Spivey were involved in a feud with the Road Warriors, but Spivey left before the feud came to an end. Calaway then took on the guidance of Paul E. Dangerously and muscled his way through guys like Brian Pillman and Johnny Ace. His most famous match in WCW was against Lex Luger for the NWA United States Championship at the 1990 Great American Bash, which he lost when Luger pinned him after a clothesline. Despite his strong showing against Lex Luger, WCW declined to renew Calaway's contract, and he signed with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in late October 1990. During that time, he also toured New Japan Pro Wrestling.


Legacy

WrestleMania winning streak

Over the course of his WWF/E career, The Undertaker has amassed an impressive winning streak at WrestleMania. It's unparalleled by any other WWE superstar past or present; currently, his record stands at fifteen victories, no losses, and no draws (15-0-0). Over the course of the streak, he has defeated fifteen different individuals (although he has faced and defeated Kane on two separate occasions, he defeated the team of A-Train and The Big Show in a Handicap match at WrestleMania XIX). Since the beginning of Undertaker's WWF/E career in 1990, he has missed only two Wrestlemania events: WrestleMania X and WrestleMania 2000; both times, he missed the events due to injuries.

  1. Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka (WrestleMania VII in 1991)
  2. Jake "The Snake" Roberts (WrestleMania VIII in 1992)
  3. Giant Gonzales (WrestleMania IX in 1993 by disqualification)
  4. King Kong Bundy (WrestleMania XI in 1995)
  5. Diesel (WrestleMania XII in 1996)
  6. Sycho Sid (WrestleMania 13 in 1997 for the WWF Championship in a No Disqualification match)
  7. Kane (WrestleMania XIV in 1998)
  8. The Big Boss Man (WrestleMania XV in 1999 in a Hell in a Cell match)
  9. Triple H (WrestleMania X-Seven in 2001)
  10. Ric Flair (WrestleMania X8 in 2002 in a No Disqualification match)
  11. The Big Show and A-Train (WrestleMania XIX in 2003 in a Handicap match)
  12. Kane (WrestleMania XX in 2004)
  13. Randy Orton (WrestleMania 21 in 2005)
  14. Mark Henry (WrestleMania 22 in 2006 in a Casket match)
  15. Batista (WrestleMania 23 in 2007 for the World Heavyweight Championship)

In wrestling

The Undertaker performs Old School (an arm twist ropewalk chop) on Heidenreich.
  • Nicknames
    • The Phenom
    • The American Bad Ass
    • Red Devil
    • Big Evil
    • Booger Red
    • The Pale Destroyer
    • The Deadman
    • Deadman, Inc.
    • Dead Man Walking
    • The Lord of Darkness
    • 'Taker
    • The Demon of Death Valley
    • The Conscience of the WWF/E
    • The Best Pure Striker in the WWE
  • Theme music
    • "The Funeral Dirge" (Used from November 1990-January 1991)
    • "The Funeral Dirge (Second Version ,which introduces the gong)",First Version of this Used from January 1991-February 1992 Second Version of this Used from February 1992-January 1994
    • "Graveyard Symphony", Used from August 1994-October 1995
    • "Darker Side", Used in 1998
    • "Ministry", English and Irish Intro used from March 28, 1999-April 5,1999. Slow music and Irish intro available on WWF The Music, Vol. 4 Used from April 12, 1999-Late 1999. Normal speed music and Irish intro used in late 1999
    • "Corporate Ministry", Remix available on WWE Anthology Disc 2 used from May 3, 1999-July 25,1999
    • "American Bad Ass", Full Version available on Kid Rock's CD History of Rock. Used from May 21, 2000-December 10, 2000
    • "Rollin' (Dead Man Mix)", Remix of Rollin' (Air Raid Vehicle), Available on WWF Forceable Entry. Used from December 10, 2000-May 19, 2002
    • "Deadman", Original version used on May 19, 2002. 2nd Version available on WWE Anthology Disc 3, used from May 26, 2002-September 12, 2002
    • "You're Gonna Pay", Available on WWE Anthology Disc 3, used from September 22, 2002-November 14, 2003
    • "The Darkest Side" Remix available on WWE ThemeAddict: The Music, Vol. 6, 1st Version used on March 14, 2004. Current Version used since then.
  • Signature Taunts
    • He hides his face with his hat to then reveal his eyes rolled up into the back of his head.
    • Arm in the air, hand ready, signaling for the Chokeslam.
    • Cut throat slowly before performing his finisher, the Tombstone Piledriver.
    • After the match, he raises his right arm while kneeling on his left knee, and his eyes roll up into the back of his head and his tongue goes out while sitting in the dark.
    • His right arm raises while the thunder roars, signals his victory over his opponents, after the match.
  • Quote
    • "Rest in peace..."
    • "This is my yard"
    • "I'll make you famous"

Gimmicks

Main article: Personas of The Undertaker

Over the seventeen years that Mark Calaway has been wrestling for World Wrestling Entertainment (formerly the World Wrestling Federation), his "Undertaker" character has gone through a number of personality changes.

Championships and accomplishments

Won title during the The Invasion and also held the WWF World Tag Team Championship at the same time
Fourth reign was as WWE Undisputed Champion
Only man with entry number 30 to win the Royal Rumble.

Personal life

Calaway met his second and current wife, Sara, at a WWF autograph signing in San Diego, California. He eventually married her in a ceremony in St. Petersburg, Florida on July 21, 2000. Mark and Sara currently have two daughters together, Chasey (born in 2002) and Gracie (born in 2005).

As a wedding gift to Sara, Calaway had his wife's name tattooed onto his throat and has said this is the most painful tattoo he has ever had. Undertaker has several other tattoos. He has a gravedigger which he refers to as "Original Deadman". He has many skull, castle and wizard tattoos. When talking about his body art he has said that there is kind of a medieval thing going-on on his arms. He also has a dancing skeleton on the back of his neck.

Aside from wrestling, Calaway has many hobbies and interests. He collects Harley-Davidson and West Coast Choppers motorcycles, and purchased his first brand new motorcycle after defeating Hulk Hogan for the WWF Championship at the 1991 Survivor Series. Calaway has also had a custom motorcycle built for him by Jesse James, the founder of West Coast Choppers. He enjoys listening to bands like ZZ Top, AC/DC, Kiss, Black Sabbath, Guns N' Roses, Metallica, Iron Maiden and Black Label Society. Calaway also enjoys country music and blues music.

As an avid boxing fan, The Undertaker was also the person who carried the Flag of the United States while leading Team Pacquiao to the ring during Pacquiao vs. Velázquez fight in 2005. This was also confirmed by another WWE Superstar, Batista. Batista revealed this during a televised interview in the Philippines called TV Patrol World in ABS-CBN while promoting an upcoming WWE promotional tour which was set to be shown in the country (WWE SmackDown! Survivor Series 2006 Tour).

Most recently, Calaway has started investing in real estate in Northern Colorado with his business partner Scott Everhart. Knowing that his wrestling career wouldn't last forever, Calaway decided to jump into what he calls "a new adventure".

Other media

Filmography:

References

  1. ^ "WWE Profile".
  2. "Calaway's High School trivia page".
  3. Michaels, Shawn. 2005, Heartbreak & Triumph: The Shawn Michaels Story, Pocket Books, New York. (p251)
  4. "'The Undertaker,' partner sample local real estate". June 16. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Unknown parameter |Year= ignored (|year= suggested) (help)
  5. "Mark Calloway IMDb". Retrieved 2007-05-03.

External links


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