Jerry Lawler Speculates On Undertaker Return
Jerry Lawler has sparked rumours of a return to action for The Undertaker, revealing that the Deadman was backstage at Survivor Series on a recent episode of his 'Dinner With The King' podcast.
The King revealed that Undertaker was in 'too good' shape during a recent behind-the-scenes appearance, speculating on a possible return to action.
Although Undertaker never officially retired, it was widely thought that his loss to Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 33 would be his last appearance. After his defeat, the Deadman left some of his gear in the ring and slowly walked to the back while his music played - kissing his wife and saluting the crowd before disappearing from view. It seemed like a clear send-off.
Despite this, in the wrestling business even official retirements aren't necessarily permanent. Were 'Taker to come back for another match, one would have to imagine that it couldn't be at any show other than WrestleMania.
Of course - given Undertaker's standing and legacy - a return would be met with considerable excitement, but that doesn't necessarily mean it would be the right decision.
After a run of memorably excellent WrestleMania matches against the likes of Batista, Edge, Triple H, CM Punk, and (most notably) Shawn Michaels, 'Taker's in-ring performances slowed noticeably. At 52, it's fair to assume that the Deadman is past his prime - even if that prime came surprisingly late in his career.
Since losing his undefeated 'Mania streak to Brock Lesnar in 2014, Undertaker has taken part in a forgettable clash with Bray Wyatt, before defeating Shane McMahon in a match more remembered for his opponent's elbow drop from the top of the Hell in a Cell structure.
The apparent retirement match with Reigns again flattered to deceive, although - like all later matches in the Deadman's career - still got over as a spectacle due to his aura and presence.
The King revealed that Undertaker was in 'too good' shape during a recent behind-the-scenes appearance, speculating on a possible return to action.
Although Undertaker never officially retired, it was widely thought that his loss to Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 33 would be his last appearance. After his defeat, the Deadman left some of his gear in the ring and slowly walked to the back while his music played - kissing his wife and saluting the crowd before disappearing from view. It seemed like a clear send-off.
Despite this, in the wrestling business even official retirements aren't necessarily permanent. Were 'Taker to come back for another match, one would have to imagine that it couldn't be at any show other than WrestleMania.
Of course - given Undertaker's standing and legacy - a return would be met with considerable excitement, but that doesn't necessarily mean it would be the right decision.
After a run of memorably excellent WrestleMania matches against the likes of Batista, Edge, Triple H, CM Punk, and (most notably) Shawn Michaels, 'Taker's in-ring performances slowed noticeably. At 52, it's fair to assume that the Deadman is past his prime - even if that prime came surprisingly late in his career.
Since losing his undefeated 'Mania streak to Brock Lesnar in 2014, Undertaker has taken part in a forgettable clash with Bray Wyatt, before defeating Shane McMahon in a match more remembered for his opponent's elbow drop from the top of the Hell in a Cell structure.
The apparent retirement match with Reigns again flattered to deceive, although - like all later matches in the Deadman's career - still got over as a spectacle due to his aura and presence.
Written by Jack King
jack.king@cultaholic.com Twitter: @JackTheJobber
