~ HHH vs Undertaker~

[TheMiz]

So whats you guys opinion on Taker giving WM rematches now?? first kane then shawn now HHH? me personaly id like to see someone new trying to break the streak /discuss

[PrimusSucks]

I would love to see someone new break the streak, but honestly, who other than Shawn and Trips can make it look like that streak is in legitimate danger.

[SaberToothTigerz]

So whats you guys opinion on Taker giving WM rematches now?? first kane then shawn now HHH? me personaly id like to see someone new trying to break the streak /discuss

hmmm no i disagree
i think taker taking on an already established main eventer like the game triple H is a wrestlemania worthy match without a doubt
i'll take it instead of taker vs barrett or taker vs sheamus
taker vs HHH will draw huge numbers and it will put triple H in the back pulling all the stops and maneging every show
im sure trips body gives him a hell lot of pain he is 41 but he is worned out and tired
let the man rest also like i said at the same time taker vs HHH is more to the appealing of a wrestlemania match
fuck wade barrett he and taker can feud after mania.

[K-Jammin]

hmmm no i disagree
i think taker taking on an already established main eventer like the game triple H is a wrestlemania worthy match without a doubt
i'll take it instead of taker vs barrett or taker vs sheamus
taker vs HHH will draw huge numbers and it will put triple H in the back pulling all the stops and maneging every show
im sure trips body gives him a hell lot of pain he is 41 but he is worned out and tired
let the man rest also like i said at the same time taker vs HHH is more to the appealing of a wrestlemania match
fuck wade barrett he and taker can feud after mania.

I agree, and although both Taker and HHH are arguably past there prime you can bet that they will both put on a Wrestlemania worthy match. I hope it does happen personally

[Xv DREWBIE vX]

it would be exciting, two guys who battled before at 19 i think it was, or was it 17 idr but it was a good match, they went through the crowd,h had the sledgehammer. i really believe this would be a really good main event, undertaker can make a nobody into somebody and hhh is a powerhouse. im looking forward to whomever it may be.

[AGEOFFALL]

The problem is that within the last year WWE has failed to really establish new long term main eventers to try and challenge the Undertaker. Sheamus and Barrett have both fallen from main event status to high mid carders at best. The truth is it should have been someone like Chris Jericho or Cena at mania but i'll take Taker/HHH over any of the mid carders.

[Draven]

If anyone EVER breaks the streak I'll never watch WWE again.

[Rich Cranium]

If anyone EVER breaks the streak I'll never watch WWE again.

So possibly either 2 more months or 1 year, 2 months for you left?

[Bodom]

I don't understand what's so special about a fake win/loss record on a scripted sports entertainment show.

[Rich Cranium]

I don't understand what's so special about a fake win/loss record on a scripted sports entertainment show.

It's still real to me DAMMIT!

[Iron Ape]

I don't understand what's so special about a fake win/loss record on a scripted sports entertainment show.
For realz. People put entirely too much stock into that stupid streak. And I think the longer it goes, the more counter-productive it actually becomes; instead of amounting to something special, the match outcomes become more and more telegraphed on account of them quite obviously building towards a 20-0 for 'Taker to go out on.

[Krysys]

Agreed with Rich!!

[The New Guy]

I'm tired of the streak
Is gone out of control now.
Evrybody knows that taker would not lose EVER
so why is everybody so excited?
Besides, HHH an taker are both rusty and getting old
so why are you guys excited? :)

[ToWhomItConcerns.]

to me personally the Taker/WM match is the most important match of the year...now before any of you read that as "Taker's WM match is the most important match of the year and to hell with everything and everybody else" i'll repeat with caps what i said:

"TO ME PERSONALLY the Taker/WM match is the most important match of the year". i can honestly say i don't care about most of the other matches throughout the year. i'm not a big fan of seeing Taker take on younger guys at Mania. why? i don't know i just don't like it too much i guess i don't "trust" them to put on a great match. so anyways i have no problems with him facing HHH again. and the IWC will bitch from now til the end of time about how they faced each other at WM17 but heres the inside scoop...IT WAS 10 YEARS AGO!!!!

still though i'm not sure if they should go with the whole "you retired my best friend and i want revenge" it sounds kinda like a high school grudge. instead they should go with "we've been around the longest and now 1 of us has to go" (they did something like that after RAW last year check it out on Youtube if you haven't seen it)...as for if it should be the main event? its a no brainer. but only if Rock/Cena doesn't happen (personally i'm not getting my hopes up). if both matches do happen then it can really be a toss up between the 2 as to which should close the show.

[TakerMania]

I don't understand what's so special about a fake win/loss record on a scripted sports entertainment show.

so know you're Calling it a "Sports Entertainment " ?!

WTF are you talkin about
Taker is not a TITLE guy and for The Time That he spent in WWE he should be at least a 15 time world champion but guess what ?! He's Not !

so The WrestleMania Streak is The least Thing That he Deserves

cuz being at 18 frikin WManias and winning Every single one of them is Cool as hell even if it's Staged

and Taker Deserves it

[Bodom]

I'll give you guys that, it can lead to some interesting hooks into WM and I'll mark for the near falls, but to "quit wrestling if it ends" is just ridiculous.

[ToWhomItConcerns.]

the IWC complains for 12 months of the year about the Taker streak. "oh its so predictible", "oh i hate the streak i wish it would die", "it should be broken by a young guy cause it would give him a big push" but the bottom line is this:

its still 1 of the most (if not THE most) anticipated matches of the year. don't believe me? go back to WM over the last 10 years (when they started really making a big deal of the streak) and look at the crowd reactions when he wins the match...especially Mania 23

also as for a younger guy ending the streak...why? so he can end up pulling a Lesnar and leaving after being pushed to the moon? also look at someone like Randy Orton at Mania 21. him "almost" beating Taker (and then going on to feud with him) helped him out ALOT. personally i never took him serious as a main eventer before then. and don't give me that "he was world champ bullshit" that means absolutely NOTHING.

[The New Guy]

to me personally the Taker/WM match is the most important match of the year...now before any of you read that as "Taker's WM match is the most important match of the year and to hell with everything and everybody else" i'll repeat with caps what i said:

"TO ME PERSONALLY the Taker/WM match is the most important match of the year". i can honestly say i don't care about most of the other matches throughout the year. i'm not a big fan of seeing Taker take on younger guys at Mania. why? i don't know i just don't like it too much i guess i don't "trust" them to put on a great match. so anyways i have no problems with him facing HHH again. and the IWC will bitch from now til the end of time about how they faced each other at WM17 but heres the inside scoop...IT WAS 10 YEARS AGO!!!!

still though i'm not sure if they should go with the whole "you retired my best friend and i want revenge" it sounds kinda like a high school grudge. instead they should go with "we've been around the longest and now 1 of us has to go" (they did something like that after RAW last year check it out on Youtube if you haven't seen it)...as for if it should be the main event? its a no brainer. but only if Rock/Cena doesn't happen (personally i'm not getting my hopes up). if both matches do happen then it can really be a toss up between the 2 as to which should close the show.

Yeah exactly my point, 10 years ago was a fine match
now, this guys are getting old, and sloppy. I would've prefer they face younger guys that can carry them trough the match.
I was excited for last year match, this year is just meeehh
:)

[ToWhomItConcerns.]

i still don't see him getting sloppy. is he older? hell yeah. the guys worked for 26 years. unless i'm forgetting something and i don't think i am from 1990-1999 he had less than a year off total (Jan-Aug 1994 and Sept 1999-April 2000...before anybody says i can't sound i obviously stopped at Dec 1999) so yeah hes pretty much injured if a bug bites him. his body is older than a normal 45 year olds. but sloppy? i don't see it. when he needs to have a big match he performs.

[The New Guy]

the IWC complains for 12 months of the year about the Taker streak. "oh its so predictible", "oh i hate the streak i wish it would die", "it should be broken by a young guy cause it would give him a big push" but the bottom line is this:

its still 1 of the most (if not THE most) anticipated matches of the year. don't believe me? go back to WM over the last 10 years (when they started really making a big deal of the streak) and look at the crowd reactions when he wins the match...especially Mania 23

also as for a younger guy ending the streak...why? so he can end up pulling a Lesnar and leaving after being pushed to the moon? also look at someone like Randy Orton at Mania 21. him "almost" beating Taker (and then going on to feud with him) helped him out ALOT. personally i never took him serious as a main eventer before then. and don't give me that "he was world champ bullshit" that means absolutely NOTHING.

I know the IWC is known for being well... A pain in the ass
But you cant argue with the fact that they know what they're talkin about.
The streak match have been good the last 2 years but Triple H? Is this going to have a good build up? is even going to be a grat match?
And yes the match is one of the most anticipated, but don't you get tired of seeing this year after year? :)

[ToWhomItConcerns.]

I know the IWC is known for being well... A pain in the ass
But you cant argue with the fact that they know what they're talkin about.
The streak match have been good the last 2 years but Triple H? Is this going to have a good build up? is even going to be a grat match?
And yes the match is one of the most anticipated, but don't you get tired of seeing this year after year? :)

do you honestly think that Sheamus or Wade Barrett (the only 2 other people the WWE was supposed to be considering) could put on a better match with Taker than HHH?
and no i don't get tired of seeing it every year. i've been watching WWE since 1996. i've watched as HHH has won what? 12 titles? Austin 6 in 4 years. Rock 9 in 4 years, Cena with 9 in 6 years, Edge with 10 in 5 years, Orton 7 in 7 years. but Undertaker 3 from 1990-1999 and 4 from 2002-2010 for a total of 7 in 20 years. so if my 1 thing as a Taker fan is to see him win a match on a card then yeah i'll take that as a WIN and no i don't get tired of seeing him win a match on a card...even if that card is WM.

[The New Guy]

do you honestly think that Sheamus or Wade Barrett (the only 2 other people the WWE was supposed to be considering) could put on a better match with Taker than HHH?
and no i don't get tired of seeing it every year. i've been watching WWE since 1996. i've watched as HHH has won what? 12 titles? Austin 6 in 4 years. Rock 9 in 4 years, Cena with 9 in 6 years, Edge with 10 in 5 years, Orton 7 in 7 years. but Undertaker 3 from 1990-1999 and 4 from 2002-2010 for a total of 7 in 20 years. so if my 1 thing as a Taker fan is to see him win a match on a card then yeah i'll take that as a WIN and no i don't get tired of seeing him win a match on a card...even if that card is WM.

I honestly do belive sheamus can put a better match. Not sure about Wade although
But we can agree on disagree. I'm personaly tired of the streak, as I'm sure a lot of fans are. But There are also guys like you taht enjoy the match, And I respect that. :)

[Hesterica]

I don't understand what's so special about a fake win/loss record on a scripted sports entertainment show.

Because for that moment Taker kicks out of Sweet Chin Music, or Shawn kicks out of the tombstone, that split second, it's real. You feel a rush. For that fraction of a second, it's real to me.

[The Brown One]

do you honestly think that Sheamus or Wade Barrett (the only 2 other people the WWE was supposed to be considering) could put on a better match with Taker than HHH?
and no i don't get tired of seeing it every year. i've been watching WWE since 1996. i've watched as HHH has won what? 12 titles? Austin 6 in 4 years. Rock 9 in 4 years, Cena with 9 in 6 years, Edge with 10 in 5 years, Orton 7 in 7 years. but Undertaker 3 from 1990-1999 and 4 from 2002-2010 for a total of 7 in 20 years. so if my 1 thing as a Taker fan is to see him win a match on a card then yeah i'll take that as a WIN and no i don't get tired of seeing him win a match on a card...even if that card is WM.

That was inspirational. Good work!

[Saiga]

i dont care what anybody says but i dont mind seeing HHH vs Undertaker again ... it's been almost 10 years since their great match @ WM X-7. they had a good match and that final spot where HHH cracked Taker over the head with a sledgehammer only for the Deadman to kick out at two was cool.

i would have liked to have seen Booker T give Undertaker a run for his money at trying to break his streak. I still think the Book is a very talented athlete who can still go at his age. Whether he can break the streak or not, he would still put on a fantastic match.

Now .... can you dig that suckaaaaaaaaa???

[hollywoodrock]

it makes alot of sense for taker to face a established guy this year bc hes still not 100% so he will need someone to make the match look good....compared to say like a barett or someone where taker would more then likely have to carry the match

[Bodom]

Or just make it a squash match. Undertaker get's his win and everybody goes home happy.

[ToWhomItConcerns.]

IMO they should only do a squash if its like theres NO WAY he can wrestle...and they shouldn't advertise it either. they're giving him this huge buildup and hes supposed to be returning on RAW (even though hes on SD) i'm sure they fully expect him to be healthy enough to put on a WM quality match.

[Anyrysm]

Why is everyone so worried? We all know the streak won't end this year whomever Taker faces. Plus, even though Taker's work load has decreased over the past few years due to injury and contract requirements, come WM he always delivers. Let us not forget that this man delivered a pretty darn good match against Mark Henry (of all people) and his matches for the past 10 years (i.e. matches in which the streak have been relevant) have all been stellar.

It may be HHH or Wade Barret or Sheamus or whomever, but at the end of the day I expect Taker to do what he always does: put on a great match which more often than not steals the show at Wrestlemania.

[Rick BoA]

I just hope there is no retiring angle again. I think HHH has alot left to offer the wwe, just work a lighter scheduel.

Also I love the undertakers streak, its pretty obvious that he will win but WM 25 had me second guessing.

Im sure Taker will put on one helluva match, he is the winner of MOTY the last 2 years is a row imo, i dont see why he would stop now.

[sXeKid]

Go watch Undertaker live and tell me he doesnt give u goosebumps.
The man is a legend and deserves to go undefeated at WM.
I understand the old age thing, but come on the only time I've seen him look sloppy was after WM 26.
I have a feeling he's got this WM and the next then thats it so enjoy him while u can boys.
Who knows WWE could give us one of the biggest surprises to a match by having him actually lose next year!

[The Brown One]

Or just make it a squash match. Undertaker get's his win and everybody goes home happy.

Most people won't be happy if its a short, shitty match. Taker is known for usually putting on great matches at Wrestlemania.

[Deadman's_streak]

No, I don't mind abother Triple H vs. Taker match at WM. And you wan't to know why?

Because after the last two matches against HBK, this whole streak thing has to become a huge thing because anything less than facing a huge wwe star would be a dissapointment.

And anyways, beside's triple h, Cena is the only big star that can face him. And that might be saved up for next year. Which leads me to believe that next year at 20-0 he has to retire at wm, because there's no one left big enough to take on Taker at another wm. Unless we get a Rock or Stone Cold return. Which is unlikely.

[ren]

I see only a young talent breaking UT's streak, but there's NO ONE on WWE roster that would deserve that. Closest is CM Punk I think, but not with one of his stable gimmicks (New Nexus, SES). HHH's win would be useless if he retires soon, Y2J have'nt faced UT @ Mania, and he would be perfect man to break UT's streak, but he is closing to an end of his carreer also so ... I don't think anyone will do it. There's ofcourse Cena, but I think even Vince realizes that Cena is already way more over than he should be, and the hate on him is huge also. UT's streak is too HUGE for WWE.

[Deadman's_streak]

I see only a young talent breaking UT's streak, but there's NO ONE on WWE roster that would deserve that. Closest is CM Punk I think, but not with one of his stable gimmicks (New Nexus, SES). HHH's win would be useless if he retires soon, Y2J have'nt faced UT @ Mania, and he would be perfect man to break UT's streak, but he is closing to an end of his carreer also so ... I don't think anyone will do it. There's ofcourse Cena, but I think even Vince realizes that Cena is already way more over than he should be, and the hate on him is huge also. UT's streak is too HUGE for WWE.

The streak will never be broken, even Taker gas told them he doesn't mind taking the loss, but Vince wants the streak to stay perfect.
That's the number 1 key to his hall of fame induction. Yeah there's no way he doesn't get in either way but the streak is something that will be talked about FOREVER. It cements him as one of the greatest of alk time, hell a lot will argue the best, esoecially if the streak grows past 20-0.

The only way I can ever see the streak being broken at all is if somewhere down the line let's say in 5 years maybe less, after his retirement, they induct him in the hof and then some current wresler like Cena or something challenges him to one final match for the streak and ends it then.

But even then, I don't think it will ever end.

[The Last Salmon Man]

it was seventeen. my favourite!

[blink]

Yeah I hope triple h doesn't retire either. There's still so much left he can do and I'm not talking about title runs either. I kinda want him to turn heel and start a new faction so some younger guys can get the same main event rub that Batista and orton did. Of course we should get rid of either nexus or the corre first so we're not over saturated with groups. Or maybe they could merge together and the game could start a faction to rival them. Just a thought

[JDfromNY]

Are you guys kidding me here. I am on the train going to work and I had to throw my 2 cents in here. If done right, this will be the feud of the year and storyline of the year, especially with the promos we have already seen. This already has the past 2 years to build off of and as for the streak, it's the most exciting thing year after year. The challenge is not in Undertaker chalking up another win it's the way it's comes to be every year, the quality of his opponent, how they can build a story in the ring and make us as fans believe the streak is in danger, and the storyline behind it. Nothing will top how HBK went about it the last two years. It was amazing television. The crowds love it and if you don't believe me, watch their WM 25 match again. That crowd for that match was absolutely amazing and I for one after the Undertakers first Tombstone after an already mammoth chokeslam, HBK kicked out...I thought the streak was done. That's the best part in all of this. Those moments...all you guys do is complain. I think Mark Calaway knows what needs to be done for his streak every year. If he didn't think it was the right thing, he wouldn't be apart of whatever creative has on the table right now.

[Bodom]

Most people won't be happy if its a short, shitty match. Taker is known for usually putting on great matches at Wrestlemania.

Undertaker going to retire eventually.

Best to get them mentally prepared for a Wrestlemania without Undertaker.

[thejman93]

To me the streak is our version of the 56 game hitting streak (for those non-baseball fans, look it up.) It's somthing we'll never see again done by one of the greats in their respective "sports."

[Rich Cranium]

I don't understand what's so special about a fake win/loss record on a scripted sports entertainment show.

Your going to cause an IWC meltdown with that. Anyway, I know the 'majority' of the show is scripted but to me, that is from the outside looking in! Some great promo guys like the Rock are given freedom to ad lib and even though they stick to the story, then do in their own style and you can see the emotions like with last week's Raw that made it feel so special that it felt 'REAL'. Also, when you watch a match like HBK/Undertaker (both WM matches) you sometimes emotionally invest yourself where you forget that it's 'fake' and you live your life in the moment. :)

end rant

[thejman93]

Your going to cause an IWC meltdown with that. Anyway, I know the 'majority' of the show is scripted but to me, that is from the outside looking in! Some great promo guys like the Rock are given freedom to ad lib and even though they stick to the story, then do in their own style and you can see the emotions like with last week's Raw that made it feel so special that it felt 'REAL'. Also, when you watch a match like HBK/Undertaker (both WM matches) you sometimes emotionally invest yourself where you forget that it's 'fake' and you live your life in the moment. :)

end rant

Those moments are why I keep coming back.

[Grind_Bastard]

Also, when you watch a match like HBK/Undertaker (both WM matches) you sometimes emotionally invest yourself where you forget that it's 'fake' and you live your life in the moment. :)


This is technically called suspension of disbelief: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suspension_of_disbelief#Other_examples Even though you know it is scripted, you think of it as real to enjoy it.

I recently revised Taker vs HBK at WM 25, and despite the fact that I already knew who won and in which exact moment, I enhjoyed the reversals and near falls as if never seen it before. Hell, even my brother, who is not a wrestling fan, watched the match once and he really enjoyed it.

On topic: I won't mind a Taker vs HHH match at WM 27

[Roy]

Leading to their Wrestlemania 21 match, Mark Calaway (aka "The Undertaker") suggested Randy being the man to end his streak, but Randy refused out of respect for The Undertaker's legacy.

I got this from IMDB.

[Deadman's_streak]

Leading to their Wrestlemania 21 match, Mark Calaway (aka "The Undertaker") suggested Randy being the man to end his streak, but Randy refused out of respect for The Undertaker's legacy.

I got this from IMDB.

Not sure if that's what went dowb, but I think I heard about that before.
And can you imagine how huge Orton's "Legend Killer" gimmick would have gotten?

[Roy]

Not sure if that's what went dowb, but I think I heard about that before.
And can you imagine how huge Orton's "Legend Killer" gimmick would have gotten?

EXACTLY!
That would've been EPIC. I so wished that had happened. But we'd miss 25 and 26 of Shawn Michaels. :/

[maar13]

First of all, If the face younger guys probably either Taker or HHH would be the ones carrying them through the match. Second, even if they are getting old and sloppy (Neither of those two are getting sloppier at all) like you said, they know each other very well to have a very good match.

The thing with the streak is that for a lot of people is very special, even if some think is predictable, that is why also they put someone credible enough to break it and on that note HHH is a very good fix for it that can make a strong point to break it.

Storyline wise:

Elimination chamber 2009: The last two men inside of it were Taker and HHH, after 2 Pedegrees HHH pinned Taker, thus making a good argument to make people believe he van beat him since he has done it before in clean fashion (He also pinned Him clean on UK Only PPV in 2002).

Businesswise:

Is younger

Has the pull to win if he wants to and Taker wouldn't mind at all putting him over out of respect, he has done it in the past with no issue what so ever.

Points for Taker to continue the streak:

Mutual Respect, HHH would not mind put him over at all either. Actually wanted it to be that way at WM X-7)
It´s Taker and it is The Sreak, period.

While a lot of you don't like it and can make an argument about why it should be over, there is way more people out there and inside of the IWC that like that fact and is a cool fact for wrestling in general because eventhough we know nothing about wha tis going to happen at WM 27, the WWE usually put a good effort to back up the storyline around it.

Last year's was a story more than a year in the making that if you start analizing it, it really Started in San Antonio Texas at the Royal Rumble 2007, that night was the one that really ignited the fire between Taker and HBK once again.

And while you get tired of it every year, a lot of people anticipate it.

You don't even know if it is going to be truth anyway and haven't even seen the build up for it and already discrediting the match.

It was good 10 years ago and it was good 2 years ago at the EC, Those two know how to work with each other in any rol the have, face or heel.

[maar13]

Not sure if that's what went dowb, but I think I heard about that before.
And can you imagine how huge Orton's "Legend Killer" gimmick would have gotten?

Actually the guy has suggested it a few times and all opponents have refused to do so.

Among them is Kane too, Taker suggested he broke it too (both times) but he refused for the same reason.

[imswm]

I would love to see someone new break the streak, but honestly, who other than Shawn and Trips can make it look like that streak is in legitimate danger.

The thing is, if a heel screws him for it--say Del Rio--then can brag about being the only one to ever did it, that gives him a whole lot of, no pun intended, bragging rights...for an entire career. In other words, Taker can "make someone's career" by doing the right thing and losing before his body COMPLETELY gives out. He's supposed to be such a locker room leader, and this would certainly prove that's not all BS. And, as someone else posted, it's not like he actual "won" any of these matches anyway. It's not like they were shoots.

[RomanFlare]

I liken this streak to the two real sports (in a Kayfabe sense):

- Consecutive games played with a safe base hit (Baseball): An insanely long streak for the sport. A streak that lights up sports networks (aka, ESPN) the day a player gets half way there. Should Taker's streak remain in tact, the WWE can, possibly several times, play that story up (Not intentionally. Like, should Sheamus coincidentally booked to win his first 6 or 7 Wrestlemania matches, then the WWE can play a "chasing the streak" storyline).

- Home Run, Career Touchdowns, Career goals (multiple sports): Its a lifetime achievement goal. Regardless of how the streak stands when Taker retires, I'm pretty sure he'll set the bar for most Wrestlemania victories. That's another record that can be chased.

Now, that being said, I don't care how the streak ends, as long as any defeat is clean. Moaners suck (unless its in the bedroom ;) )

Back to the topic:

I like HHH and Taker going at it. HHH is a super threat to anyone in the business, and its two veterans of the company and the business going at it. This is like Flair vs Hogan, back when they had solid bones.

You know who I'd love to see take on Taker? Daniel Bryan. The indy sensation, the technical machine, the ladies man, THE AMERICAN DRAGON. What better feud to really improve Bryan's character and promo skills (since apparently Vince doesn't see it in him) than to do promos with the Phenom? And honestly, Bryan could carry a sack of potatoes to a 4 star match. With Taker's ability to build the excitement of a match and his in-ring psychology, that match could be *****... out of 5.

[ToWhomItConcerns.]

Daniel Bryan vs Undertaker would be such a good match...but i never wanna see it at Mania.

i could only imagine the giant hissy fit the IWC would have. they'd act like the world was coming to an end. it would be the worst thing to ever happen in American....nay, world history.

[maar13]

Daniel Bryan vs Undertaker would be such a good match...but i never wanna see it at Mania.

i could only imagine the giant hissy fit the IWC would have. they'd act like the world was coming to an end. it would be the worst thing to ever happen in American....nay, world history.

Why not? I mean it will be a Hell of a match and can give a great showing to both. If the WWE built Bryan as a real submission treath to everyone it could be Taker's dream opponent.

I know that who ever wins people will bitch about the loser being wrongly picked. In this case I want to see Taker win (Yep, I am a Taker Mark all the way, sue me) but even if he loses the match will can be great (And I will bitch about the victor because of the comment posted above).

Everyone can enjoy that match since Taker and Bryan can wack each other and take the fight to each other, that one would be nice.

[Rick BoA]

I hate to go this route but Bryan vs Taker would not work. Bryan is too small, physically. Taker has a good foot on him in heigth and probably 100+lbs. not too mention Bryan is not established, unlike most of undertakers opponents.

I would love to see chris Jericho vs Taker(i know y2j isnt that big either), or, wishfull thinking, the rock.

If Nash could find a way to put on a match like when he was younger (flair did it vs hbk) i wouldnt mind seeing that either.

[StonedCold]

imo Undertaker would not be as agile as HHH. Even though they both have been out for a while. Takers days are pretty much numbered. I have always been a fan of taker, but takers days are a lot less than HHH when the 2 are compared

[cy1911]

HHH is back!!!!!!!!

[cy1911]

i admit i was wrong about sting but i did change it a week ago and said hhh vs taker

[WWTNA Mark]

Actually, there was a report stating that HHH vs Undertaker was gonna happen at Wrestlemaina 27. Don't mean to bust your bubble.

[cy1911]

oh i know that haha just never know with wwe plus it was believed to be sting

[ToWhomItConcerns.]

all that buildup...all that hype...all that anticipation for a face to face that had longer entrances than actual time face to face...BS

but i did like how they didn't have to say anything...i guess that was cool.

[cy1911]

anyone notice how taker looks skinner now and hhh looked more built than usual age vs roids

[Bodom]

all that buildup...all that hype...all that anticipation for a face to face that had longer entrances than actual time face to face...BS

but i did like how they didn't have to say anything...i guess that was cool.

That silence spoke more than words ever could have.

[THEKEVINBRAND]

the nameless guy must be at home in shock going but whyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy

[captainmoonlight]

Skinnnier?

No chance. Taker looks in great shape

[clrj3514]

Skinnnier?

No chance. Taker looks in great shape
Yea, and I thought H's gut looked a little bigger. But not fat.

[clrj3514]

That silence spoke more than words ever could have.
AMEN!
That my friend is what you call epic.

[akgator1]

Yes Taker has lost even more muscle mass, hes getting old you can just see it. His body isnt responding to injuries as well, thats just what happens at that age. He probably hasnt been able to work upper body out much either with that type of injury.

[Iron Ape]

the nameless guy must be at home in shock going but whyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
He's probably off masterbating to some old VHS tapes of Nitro, using his tears as lubrication.

[Bodom]

I hated the thought of HHH vs Undertaker, but that moment sold me on the match.

[Trips88]

No not skinny in a bad way. As many of us know Taker trains and keeps in shape doing various MMA training and as anyone who's ever do it can tell you. it'll zap any body fat right off. As for HHH, I think he's just gotten a little bigger. Not from roids! I'm sure he's just hit the gym hard leading up to his comeback and when your muscles are that big to begin with and you work them that hard they tend to swell. Even abs.

[TakerMania]

I can't Deny that I hoped it's Sting The Moment The Door opened

but it's Ok and The Segment was pretty Epic

[Iron Ape]

I'm kind of disappointed, really. I basically knew this was where things were headed, but the effort they went into hyping those video teasers had me holding onto a glimmer of hope that maybe they were actually going to do something sneaky and special. This whole thing feels thrown together and like a last resort.

If this is the match that retires Triple H, though, that will be a big plus. I sincerely believe that he's a more valuable asset behind the scenes, so at least something good will come of it.

[Iron Ape]

No not skinny in a bad way. As many of us know Taker trains and keeps in shape doing various MMA training and as anyone who's ever do it can tell you. it'll zap any body fat right off. As for HHH, I think he's just gotten a little bigger. Not from roids! I'm sure he's just hit the gym hard leading up to his comeback and when your muscles are that big to begin with and you work them that hard they tend to swell. Even abs.
Ahem.

http://www.mma-extreme.com/images/roy-nelson-belly-rub.jpg

;)

[TakerMania]

and as a Taker Die-Hard Fan

I think that there shouldn't Be all That Hype in The promo

cuz I'm sure there are millions of people felt dissapointed by The Result

[Bodom]

and as a Taker Die-Hard Fan

I think that there shouldn't Be all That Hype in The promo

cuz I'm sure there are millions of people felt dissapointed by The Result

The only disappointed people are the ones who swore it was anybody but Taker.

[Trips88]

Ahem.

http://www.mma-extreme.com/images/roy-nelson-belly-rub.jpg

;)

LMFAO! That's not exactly the mental picture you get when you think MMA though lol

P.S. He's probably off masterbating to some old VHS tapes of Nitro, using his tears as lubrication was the funniest shit I've herd all day!

[Robstar]

WORST. LAMEST. LAZIEST. WRESTLEMANIA. MATCH. BUILDUP. EVER.

What? These guys couldn't have managed a few pre-recorded vignettes - no in-ring challenge promos for a few weeks to build the hype - basically nothing but a stare down and a couple of age old taunts???

Still, I'm psyched for it! Damn! I only read it on the news page, it won't screen here until tomorrow, but I'm pretty much buying Wrestlemania for this match, if nothing else. ;) I don't know if it'll be Trip's last match though - I'd tip semi-retirement, but not a full blown "never coming back" thing.

[cato79]

I'm happy with the way things went down....

Mic Skills..???? There are Legends that don't need a mic to address millions and millions of people... Not a single word and the message was very clear... as some of you like to say, and I quote: EPIC.

Did anyone else noticed that Taker was wearing pants, instead of his usual in-ring gear... I guess it was just to make sense with the videos... Thoughts....??

[THEKEVINBRAND]

He's probably off masterbating to some old VHS tapes of Nitro, using his tears as lubrication.

i found out sting changed his name legally to triple h lol

[Iron Ape]

WORST. LAMEST. LAZIEST. WRESTLEMANIA. MATCH. BUILDUP. EVER.

What? These guys couldn't have managed a few pre-recorded vignettes - no in-ring challenge promos for a few weeks to build the hype - basically nothing but a stare down and a couple of age old taunts???

Still, I'm psyched for it! Damn! I only read it on the news page, it won't screen here until tomorrow, but I'm pretty much buying Wrestlemania for this match, if nothing else. ;) I don't know if it'll be Trip's last match though - I'd tip semi-retirement, but not a full blown "never coming back" thing.
You're right- if Trips "retires", it won't be permanent. He will probably still insert himself into big PPV storylines like Vince used to.

I still think his focus being behind the scenes is the best way that he could contribute. Not only has he done just about everything there is to do in the ring, but making a move that helps to get McMahon out of the thick of things can do nothing but benefit the company at this point in time.

[TakerMania]

I wanna ask just one quistion

did Those Returns and Match build up really needed that kind of promos and hype?!

I mean promos like that are meant to be for a Debut or a Huge return for some one that haven't been there for at least a year

and the Triple H return is a little bit weak

they should've made Taker stand there for a while with silence and then hit the song

I hope really bad that this turns out to be an amzing feud leading to a match to remember

[Trips88]

i found out sting changed his name legally to triple h lol

He sure as fuck would make a lot more money that way....just not by making kids movies lmao

[Rich Cranium]

anyone notice how taker looks skinner now and hhh looked more built than usual age vs roids

Skinner is back?
http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/180/275/Skinner_display_image.jpg?1269234728

[Robstar]

Skinner is back?
http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/180/275/Skinner_display_image.jpg?1269234728

Pmsl!

http://blog.acton.org/uploads/Skinner1.gif

[The Brown One]

The only disappointed people are the ones who swore it was anybody but Taker.

To all those who believed it was Sting, even after solid proof that it was Taker in the vignettes: Wheres Sting now? Not on Raw, that's for sure.

I knew this wasn't going to be a big return, for either of them, but their returns were more disappointing than I first thought. They didn't talk much, if at all about Taker's symbol coming down. A door opens, and they show Taker..which I think could have been done better. They could have shown Triple H in the video too. But I guess that what his live-return was for. When Taker showed up, he didn't give any explanation as to how he "came back from the dead" this time. I liked that they didn't say a word, but gazed at the Wrestlemania sign, signalling a match beetween them. The rest wasn't done very well.

[Iron Ape]

To all those who believed it was Sting, even after solid proof that it was Taker in the vignettes: Wheres Sting now? Not on Raw, that's for sure.

I knew this wasn't going to be a big return, for either of them, but their returns were more disappointing than I first thought. They didn't talk much, if at all about Taker's symbol coming down. A door opens, and they show Taker..which I think could have been done better. They could have shown Triple H in the video too. But I guess that what his live-return was for. When Taker showed up, he didn't give any explanation as to how he "came back from the dead" this time. I liked that they didn't say a word, but gazed at the Wrestlemania sign, signalling a match beetween them. The rest wasn't done very well.
*hugs Brown One*

We can be minorities together. :D

[Androo]

hey i thought it was one person in the promos! the undertaker! so they done me!! but we kinda knew there was gonna be a face off of sorts between the two didnt we? hmmmm i duno if im that captivated by it. anyway at least we know now that it was Triple h's boots that were outside! yay!! coz the ones he had on tonight were heely cowboyish booty things!! yayyyy!

[THEKEVINBRAND]

He sure as fuck would make a lot more money that way....just not by making kids movies lmao

i saaw the chaperone and i felt really bad for trips, he was literally horrible and shouldn't consider that career, randy's movie on the other hand looks pretty good

[Scottland]

Triple H vs. The Undertaker? Well, at least there will be a quality main event type match as Cena vs. Miz & Edge vs. Del Rio are about as exciting as paint drying. Sorry but Miz & Del Rio are really not worthy of main event title matches at Wrestlemania as neither one draws in the crowds plus I could go on several reasons why Miz & Del Rio truly don't really deserve such spots at this time of their careers in WWE. Wrestlemania 27 has only 3 things going for it: 1.) The Rock [which is a HUGE reason why non-wrestling fans might if not order it], 2.) Triple H vs. The Undertaker [expect HBK to be involved which would be a plus] & 3.) Money In The Bank. I can see why Vince is worried about buyrates & is bring back some of the true stars because today's roster talent is so DAMN weak. It's no wonder WWE has gone to become a niche demographic (little kiddies) because it's the least intelligent grouping let alone you don't need much talent or depth with that demographic (there is a ton of evidence to prove that). Props Vince.

[Iron Ape]

As badass as The Undertaker is supposed to be, I find it kind of hilarious that he makes people take their shoes off before coming into his cabin.

[THEKEVINBRAND]

Triple H vs. The Undertaker? Well, at least there will be a quality main event type match as Cena vs. Miz & Edge vs. Del Rio are about as exciting as paint drying. Sorry but Miz & Del Rio are really not worthy of main event title matches at Wrestlemania as neither one draws in the crowds plus I could go on several reasons why Miz & Del Rio truly don't really deserve such spots at this time of their careers in WWE. Wrestlemania 27 has only 3 things going for it: 1.) The Rock [which is a HUGE reason why non-wrestling fans might if not order it], 2.) Triple H vs. The Undertaker [expect HBK to be involved which would be a plus] & 3.) Money In The Bank. I can see why Vince is worried about buyrates & is bring back some of the true stars because today's roster talent is so DAMN weak. It's no wonder WWE has gone to become a niche demographic (little kiddies) because it's the least intelligent grouping let alone you don't need much talent or depth with that demographic (there is a ton of evidence to prove that). Props Vince.

we all know what's gonna happen after wrestlemania, hhh, hbk, the rock and undertaker will vanish once more from the wwe

[The Brown One]

we all know what's gonna happen after wrestlemania, hhh, hbk, the rock and undertaker will vanish once more from the wwe

And we will get the return/continuance of Evan Bourne, Christian, Goldust, Skip Sheffield, Trish Stratus, and Stone Cold Steve Austin(even though they are trainers).

[Robstar]

*hugs Brown One*

We can be minorities together. :D

Count ME in.



Triple H vs. The Undertaker? Well, at least there will be a quality main event type match as Cena vs. Miz & Edge vs. Del Rio are about as exciting as paint drying. A)Sorry but Miz & Del Rio are really not worthy of main event title matches at Wrestlemania as neither one draws in the crowds plus I could go on several reasons why Miz & Del Rio truly don't really deserve such spots at this time of their careers in WWE. Wrestlemania 27 has only 3 things going for it: 1.) The Rock B)[which is a HUGE reason why non-wrestling fans might if not order it], 2.) Triple H vs. The Undertaker [expect HBK to be involved which would be a plus] & 3.) Money In The Bank. I can see why Vince is worried about buyrates & is bring back some of the true stars because today's roster talent is so DAMN weak. It's no wonder WWE has gone to become a niche demographic (little kiddies) because it's the least intelligent grouping let alone you don't need much talent or depth with that demographic (there is a ton of evidence to prove that). Props Vince.

A) Agreed, although I can see it one day
B) If you're not a wrestling fan, even a smidge, The Rock's popularity outside of wrestling isn't enough to attract new people to watch, I don't think. You're either some sort of fan of wrestling or you just are not and never will be.

[MrNolan]

Taker has looked thinner over the last few years but thats natural. Look at Shawn Michaels. He used to be pretty solid, and as he aged the muscle dwindled probably due to lack of care for continuous weight training. Trips looked same as usual, I bet hes gonna be in phenomenal shape for Mania.

On a side note talking about this reminds me of how Stone Cold would have the beer belly for Raw and Smackdown but come PPV time he was always in shape with a six pack lol. That always gave me a chuckle.

[THEKEVINBRAND]

Taker has looked thinner over the last few years but thats natural. Look at Shawn Michaels. He used to be pretty solid, and as he aged the muscle dwindled probably due to lack of care for continuous weight training. Trips looked same as usual, I bet hes gonna be in phenomenal shape for Mania.

On a side note talking about this reminds me of how Stone Cold would have the beer belly for Raw and Smackdown but come PPV time he was always in shape with a six pack lol. That always gave me a chuckle.

no no you got it alllll wrong, he was sucking it in at the ppvs and let it go by the time raw rolled around the next night :P

[THEKEVINBRAND]

And we will get the return/continuance of Evan Bourne, Christian, Goldust, Skip Sheffield, Trish Stratus, and Stone Cold Steve Austin(even though they are trainers).

lets hope hhh and taker stick around for abit, they have been gone for a long time, give them a chance to build new programs and put the new stars over

[Trips88]

HHH vs Taker is gonna be epic!

[Scottland]

A) Agreed, although I can see it one day
B) If you're not a wrestling fan, even a smidge, The Rock's popularity outside of wrestling isn't enough to attract new people to watch, I don't think. You're either some sort of fan of wrestling or you just are not and never will be.

Actually Rob, The Rock was the biggest draw of non-wrestling fans (it's well proven). Also, The Rock had the biggest impact when he left then any other wrestler having a 8% decrease effect on WWE viewership which is the biggest to this day. If you went to pretty much any media non-wrestling outlet on the internet of his return had a big impact in viewership let alone non-wrestling fans actually tuning in. I went to a comment board that was non-wrestling related but had an article up of The Rock's WWE Return & the amount people who said they might order Wrestlemania because of him was shocking. Yes, most of them were either non-wrestling fans or fans who lost interest years ago in wrestling.

[Rich Cranium]

I just rewatched the vid and why did Taker sort of snarl and walk off on HHH before he returned to the staredown? Here it is:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rcx2h7fOZy8

[The Brown One]

I just rewatched the vid and why did Taker sort of snarl and walk off on HHH before he returned to the staredown? Here it is:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rcx2h7fOZy8

I think it was written in the script. He was meant to look like he thought that Triple H wasn't a worthy challenger to his streak, since he had already beaten him before.

[Scottland]

I think it was written in the script. He was meant to look like he thought that Triple H wasn't a worthy challenger to his streak, since he had already beaten him before.

True.

One thing though, it's well known that Taker & HHH don't exactly get along behind-the-scenes. To some extent it's a little surprising they are going to do another feud when there was some problems with them working together feuding back then. I'm sure Vince was probably strongly involved with this match up as Taker & HHH have not been one's who've wanted to work together in storylines.

[Trips88]

True.

One thing though, it's well known that Taker & HHH don't exactly get along behind-the-scenes. To some extent it's a little surprising they are going to do another feud when there was some problems with them working together feuding back then. I'm sure Vince was probably strongly involved with this match up as Taker & HHH have not been one's who've wanted to work together in storylines.

I still don't know what the beef is between those two...

[Rich Cranium]

One thing though, it's well known that Taker & HHH don't exactly get along behind-the-scenes.

Is it ego driven?

[Robstar]

I still don't know what the beef is between those two...

Could be the retiring Shawn angle, along the lines of Botchtista/HBK/Flair story. And it's convenient timing anyway. Fact remains they are both the biggest backstage players of the wrestlers in WWE

[Rick BoA]

they had an amazing match at wm17 so i expect this to be a good one, as long as HHH doesnt do the whole "if i lose i retire" angle. Its been done alot, and i think that HHH still can give alot to the fans. It would be cool if HHH became the General Manager and wrestled on occasion, but he has alot to offer still.

[THEKEVINBRAND]

I just rewatched the vid and why did Taker sort of snarl and walk off on HHH before he returned to the staredown? Here it is:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rcx2h7fOZy8

one of the reasons why i miss JR on commentary, it was totally dead when both Taker and HHH returned, and JR would've sold it like crazy

[Scottland]

I still don't know what the beef is between those two...

It's really never been said what the issues are between the two as the only thing that's been said is they don't see eye-to-eye on things.

[Scottland]

Is it ego driven?

I'm sure somewhere between the lines, ego plays a part into the beef between the two. The issue between the two has stayed within the company & has never really got out to the public which is surprising. I do know Vince takes Taker's input more so then any other wrestler, so that may play a part as well. Many within WWE say Taker is the top of the food chain.

[Trips88]

I'm sure somewhere between the lines, ego plays a part into the beef between the two. The issue between the two has stayed within the company & has never really got out to the public which is surprising. I do know Vince takes Taker's input more so then any other wrestler, so that may play a part as well. Many within WWE say Taker is the top of the food chain.

As well he should be. I just hope that if, God willing, Taker stays around a few more years and HHH takes control that we don't see a crap fest.

[Xv DREWBIE vX]

im glad to see the deadman back, tbh i really was hoping a motorcycle roar storm through the arena but im still happy with the whole deadman thing but i just wish they would of closed the show with that staredown seriously it would have been way better than that tag team match idk what the writers are thinking but they need to lay off the peyote

[Nay_Than]

Where the hell is nameles?? i wanna laugh in his face... Or did he hang himself?

[Ryan57]

Although i'm not really looking forward to HHH vs Taker match at mania, i did like the way that it was done. The only thing i can't understand is why they put so much hype into it.

[TheBoogeyMan]

Triple H has been gone since shortly after WM last, yr......and Taker since November

Both return last night......with nary a word spoken.

I am hugely dissappointed

and could honestly care less they just set their match up at WM.

Worst segment I have seen in a LONG LONG time.

[WH Punk 26]

Triple H has been gone since shortly after WM last, yr......and Taker since November

Both return last night......with nary a word spoken.

I am hugely dissappointed

and could honestly care less they just set their match up at WM.

Worst segment I have seen in a LONG LONG time.

IMO I think it made it better but i cant really explane why.
But i don't really care for a match (been there, done that) and i would have like some one on the up to fight Taker and not some one who is about to pack it in.

[Kashdinero]

Triple H has been gone since shortly after WM last, yr......and Taker since November

Both return last night......with nary a word spoken.

I am hugely dissappointed

and could honestly care less they just set their match up at WM.

Worst segment I have seen in a LONG LONG time.

I whole heartedly agree with this.

That they never said a word was probably designed to add some sort of intensity, but, to me, it just came off as a bit desperate.

[HeelTurn]

It was a bit of an anti climax. The promo videos have been going for weeks, they even hyped it during the night and then, well nothing.

[Kashdinero]

It was a bit of an anti climax. The promo videos have been going for weeks, they even hyped it during the night and then, well nothing.

Maybe they'll explain everything next week!

[HeelTurn]

Maybe they'll explain everything next week!

Hopefully, still it was never going to beat The Rock's segment last week.

[Rassling_Fan]

Honestly, I did enjoy the segment. I expected the Undertaker to return but didn't expect Triple H to be there. And honestly, they didn't need words. Anyone who follows wrestling knows Triple H and HBK are friends and by the looks of it HHH wants revenge by being the one who ended his streak.

You can say a lot of things by saying nothing at all.

[Tommy Thunder]

It was probably done like this to make us watch RAW next week (and possibly Smackdown this week). Guys will tune in next time to see what happens next with the angle. Will HHH explain why he came out? Will Taker explain why he returned on RAW instead of Smackdown?

[jaxxvsyou]

Worst segment? nah FAR from it...HHH isnt going ANYWHERE he will have Gray hair and sagging skin..but if Vince dies..and eventually he will.he will be the man in charge..Shane is doing other things...Who is he married to? it makes absolute since..ANY of those other talents could win at WM and go to TNA in the summer or when their contract is up..Vince wont let that happen. Whomever beats undertaker MUST be inhouse FOR LIFE or its a nogo..They made it tooo big of a deal

[FaceOfSpades]

It could have been better but it wasn't the worst. I saw when taker botched his entry and thought the botch was cooler than him just coming out. The smirk on takers face when trips pointed at the sign was priceless. Haven't seen the undertaker act cocky in a long time. Trips is huge. Every time he comes back and the song is playing and the crowd goes nuts I actually feel like I missed him. In my opinion the segment was 3.5 out of 5 AND I feel if taker would have talked the segment would have only been a 2.5 (have yall seen "the underbotcher" vid?) Tune in next week and they'll have an explaination. Maybe shawn will come out and not say shit. j/k but this is gonna get better.

[Stihltygre]

wow.... just wow... now i liked the Rock's promo last week, and Cena's last night... but honestly what Taker and Trips did last night took a special kind of Talent, they owned that crowd, and without a word got a storyline out. Wll they use words to flesh it out, hell yeah, but last night any promo one or the other of them cut would have been dimmed by Cena and Rock, so no promo just the stare down from hell. I was impressed as hell.

[captainmoonlight]

when was the last time these two wrestled? i'm looking forward to it.

[Rated_R(ob)KO]

Last night on RAW we experienced something magical. Something grand. We experienced the great art of story telling. WITHOUT a microphone. The segment was already gold when Undertaker came out, Then Trips hit, all hell breaks loose and. Not. One. Word. Is. Spoken. Only true masters of the craft can pull off something so distinctive. In a business where the loudest person is the one you pay attention to the most, these guys had us in the palm of their hands while they gestured and glared. We knew what they were saying. We knew what was going on. We knew they were going to face each other at Wrestlemania XXVII.

I see some people complaining about the lack of verbiage between the two. I 100% applaud it. The Rock came in last week and taught the younger guys how to hold a mic and speak. This week Undertaker and Triple H came out there and proved no mic is even needed sometimes. In one full week, the old stars came back and showed all the young talent what they were doing wrong. And in one full week we realized just how bad we actually have it when it truly comes to being "entertained".

Yes. We have a bunch of guys coming up and the future of THE 'E is very bright but, there are always those trendsetters, those people who came before and not only broke ground on the road to Wrestlemania, they helped pave the bumps and helped repair it along the way. This road is as strong as it's ever been this year. Wrestlemania season never fails to disappoint. For one minute, can't we all stop complaining about the now, stop living in the past and just accept it for what it is? THE 'E is doing a ton of fan service recently and I for one am very proud to be a member of the WWE Universe.

Here's to a great six more weeks and an even better year after Wrestlemania has come and gone and we're Miami bound.

[SaberToothTigerz]

Where the hell is nameles?? i wanna laugh in his face... Or did he hang himself?

he hang himself

[SaberToothTigerz]

when i looked at this thread tittle i thought it was concerning michael cole insulting jerry lawler at the expenses of his dead mother
that was the worst segment of the night
HHH and taker sold good and i loved their confronation, maybe last week trips will reveal why taker and if he is the raw gm or not

[JoMo's Mojo]

Last night on RAW we experienced something magical. Something grand. We experienced the great art of story telling. WITHOUT a microphone. The segment was already gold when Undertaker came out, Then Trips hit, all hell breaks loose and. Not. One. Word. Is. Spoken. Only true masters of the craft can pull off something so distinctive. In a business where the loudest person is the one you pay attention to the most, these guys had us in the palm of their hands while they gestured and glared. We knew what they were saying. We knew what was going on. We knew they were going to face each other at Wrestlemania XXVII.

I see some people complaining about the lack of verbiage between the two. I 100% applaud it. The Rock came in last week and taught the younger guys how to hold a mic and speak. This week Undertaker and Triple H came out there and proved no mic is even needed sometimes. In one full week, the old stars came back and showed all the young talent what they were doing wrong. And in one full week we realized just how bad we actually have it when it truly comes to being "entertained".

Yes. We have a bunch of guys coming up and the future of THE 'E is very bright but, there are always those trendsetters, those people who came before and not only broke ground on the road to Wrestlemania, they helped pave the bumps and helped repair it along the way. This road is as strong as it's ever been this year. Wrestlemania season never fails to disappoint. For one minute, can't we all stop complaining about the now, stop living in the past and just accept it for what it is? THE 'E is doing a ton of fan service recently and I for one am very proud to be a member of the WWE Universe.

Here's to a great six more weeks and an even better year after Wrestlemania has come and gone and we're Miami bound.

JMMJ approves this message. Very well said.

[vbirwin]

It's amusing how there are two threads going, one saying this was one of the best segments ever and one saying it was one of the worst segments ever. My take, it was OK. I've never been a big fan of segments where two guys just stand nose to nose for a long time and I thought this one went on too long. It bothers me a bit that for weeks they have been pushing the 2/21/11 promo as this huge comeback for Taker and then when he finally get's in the ring he is immediately cut off in favor of HHH. It killed the payoff of such a big buildup. I guess we'll see how they build it from here but at this point I'm not overly excited for the match. Taker has been out for weeks and HHH has been out for months and with only a short time before Mania I can't see these two putting on a top tier match. But I'll give them the benefit of the doubt for now. I hope I'm wrong.

[Rassling_Fan]

when i looked at this thread tittle i thought it was concerning michael cole insulting jerry lawler at the expenses of his dead mother
that was the worst segment of the night

I agree. They were perfectly fine to not bring it up to do cheap heat for the Miz but they had to do it a week later. Really hated that. Why bother when he could just make fun of his Wrestlemania dream being over for good? Why go so low?

[PrimusSucks]

I agree. They were perfectly fine to not bring it up to do cheap heat for the Miz but they had to do it a week later. Really hated that. Why bother when he could just make fun of his Wrestlemania dream being over for good? Why go so low?

I agree with this, that was sick, on par with Orton saying Guerrero was going to hell.

[Heels Have More Fun]

That Triple H kind of spit up the water in the beginning of his entrance, instead of letting it mist over his head? Now, I believe there are four possible explanations.

A. He just messed up, pure and simple, possibly because its been so long since he's done his entrance.
B. He didn't want to get water on his leather jacket.
C. He accidentally opened his mouth and it kind of flowed out with his conscious intent.
D. The bad writing in The Chaperone made him literally mentally handicapped and he no longer has control over his motor functions, like opening and closing his mouth.

Did anyone else notice? If so, please give your opinion.

[Rated_R(ob)KO]

I mentioned this to my wife earlier today actually. Our son had fallen asleep before Taker and Haitch came out and upon watching it again, I noticed he just opened up his mouth and STOPPED dead in his tracks and it all came pouring out. I was wondering what the hell happened LMAO!

[jcagosto]

I second that.

[RomanFlare]

I agree, but I also find it hilarious that there is a thread loving what they did, and another booing it. Personally, it was my favorite Promo since HBK kicked Del Rio.

[SaberToothTigerz]

not even worth mentioning as a topic lol

[mosdope]

As a guy who has never been a big fan of either one of these guys(especially HHH), I thought the segment was awesome. IDK why everyone was begging for Sting, I'd rather see someone who has a chance of actually ending the streak. And the only two guys with any shot of doing that are HHH and John Cena.

[Lowki]

They have six weeks left to build Wrestlemania and this staredown just helped stretch it out. People can moan all they want but this is called build up! I do agree with anti-climax posts about the video promos though definitely, they could have saved those for a new wrestler because they were pretty good.

[SaberToothTigerz]

I agree. They were perfectly fine to not bring it up to do cheap heat for the Miz but they had to do it a week later. Really hated that. Why bother when he could just make fun of his Wrestlemania dream being over for good? Why go so low?

that generated alot of heat for michael cole but he didnt needed it
i dont know wether that part was scripted or cole just couldnt contain himself for doing that..
anyways with pg on i doubt very highly that THAT could ever be acknowledged as a family friendly product

[rko619]

it was a great segment of raw bit let down by nothing really becoming of 21 2 11 undertaker but still though 2 of the biggest names returned :)

[Deadman's_streak]

Well, I just missed it. I didn't get home till exactly after the segment. But, I heard what happened and it sounded pretty lame. Until I watched it for myself on Youtube.

You see, this is pretty simple and can all be explained..
I'm sure we'll get an explaination next monday or even this week on Smack Down.
But, what I think is that Taker might have came back to Raw to show the wwe universe that he's back, and then Triple h came out and disrupted him. At that point, Taker already knew why Triple H came out, for the streak.

The smirk by the Undertaker was one of those " you fool!"
And if you paid close attention, you see that after they stare at the wm logo and after the smirk, Taker stares at him and nods his head like saying "yes".

And the reason why Taker stepped off and came back was probably because after the nod, he was going to leave but decided that he would send that final message to Trips with that death taunt before he left.
Leading to Triple H giving taker the suck it taunt, which to me was pretty obvious that he was trying to say that he's doing it for Shawn.

Anyways, that's my take on it. But we'll see how this goes, and we should be seeing HBK soon now.

[Rich Cranium]

The part when Taker turned back around and sped towards HHH, and then the crotch chop was off the flippin chain!

[Rich Cranium]

This is like deja vu, I was just in a thread with a similar discussion but yeah, no words needed!

[SevenCagedTigers]

Maybe they'll explain everything next week!

They don't need to explain it, all us internet people already know the story. Triple H wants to end the streak because The Undertaker ended his best friends career. Its as simple as that.

Its a good story, but you're right. These two are some of the great mic men of the business. The Rock's promo created so much hype. Cena's retaliation promo was an instant classic. The Miz has been cutting great promos left and right. Hell, even MICHAEL COLE cut a great heel promo with Jerry Lawler. So it is a HUGE disappointment, in this time of great promos, to see two of the biggest names in the business come out and not explain wtf their beef is about. Wassupwithdat???

Yes, you just pictured Gregory Helms in your mind. INCEPTION BABY!

[TakerMania]

Taker and Triple H don't get along backstage BECAUSE Taker hates The politics That HHH is using Backstage and Taker is angry about The Stars That HHH buried

and Taker is The only one in The Roster that his word is more important to Vince than HHH's Word

that's just a big speculation which actually makes a lot of sense

[Rich Cranium]

I'm can't see neither Taker losing his streak or HHH retiring so what gives? Just for the streak then? An HBK swerve perhaps?

[HeelTurn]

The retirement hasnt been officially announced and I dont see Taker losing, Im sure Triple H can do the job.

[TakerMania]

But I really wanna know What in the hell happened To Kane ,Pau Bearer and NEXUS Burying Tha Undertaker Alive and Sheamus Beating The Hell out of HHH ?!!


some body have got to tell me

[thejman93]

First off the wordless staredown was more impactful than any promo the two could've cut. I think Undertaker might retire HHH so that Trips can begin the process of taking the regins from Vince. HBK will probably be the special guest ref and cut promos before the match saying that he'll call it right down the middle because he respects both men too much to do it any other way. Somthing I woke up thinking about this morning was if the storyline above does happen who will be Undertaker's 2oth, and most likley last, WrestleMania victim?

[Scottland]

But I really wanna know What in the hell happened To Kane ,Pau Bearer and NEXUS Burying Tha Undertaker Alive and Sheamus Beating The Hell out of HHH ?!!


some body have got to tell me

The Sheamus/HHH storyline will probably start up again after Mania but WWE executive Kevin Dunn has some issues with Sheamus which is why Sheamus is getting a push down at the moment. As for Taker/Kane/Bearer? That storyline is officially done. The Nexus/Taker situation was scrapped a few weeks ago as originally planned Wade Barrett was suppose to take on Taker but some within WWE didn't feel Barrett was a worthy match up at this time in his career especially in terms of Wrestlemania as Barrett will either be facing Big Show (but Big Zeke has been discussed for a match up with Big Show at Mania as well) or Barrett will be involved with the Money In The Bank match.

[merhardt03]

Wassupwithdat???

Yes, you just pictured Gregory Helms in your mind. INCEPTION BABY!

Woo woo woo! You know it!

[THEKEVINBRAND]

Where the hell is nameles?? i wanna laugh in his face... Or did he hang himself?

didn't he say he wanted to jump off a bridge?

[merhardt03]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7_7qsMHDiA

Stand Back!!!! Theres a Hurricane comin thru

[Nay_Than]

didn't he say he wanted to jump off a bridge?

Touché dude...

[Tommy Thunder]

HHH vs Taker isn't going to be as good as HBK vs Taker, but let's face it, no match was going to be close to that. It should be good thoough, especially with HBK as the special guest ref (if that happens)!!

[Deadman's_streak]

First off the wordless staredown was more impactful than any promo the two could've cut. I think Undertaker might retire HHH so that Trips can begin the process of taking the regins from Vince. HBK will probably be the special guest ref and cut promos before the match saying that he'll call it right down the middle because he respects both men too much to do it any other way. Somthing I woke up thinking about this morning was if the storyline above does happen who will be Undertaker's 2oth, and most likley last, WrestleMania victim?

The way I see it, his opponent nect year has to be someone big and this has to be a big deal bevause not only would it be for the big 20, but it might be his last match period. So the only guy left that's big enough to take on Taker next year for 20-0 is Cena. So that might happen, and it's a match we've all been waiting to see.

[Outsider]

I have a question...

If the 2nd man in the promo was Triple H then why he didn't come with the trench coat on him?

[Deadman's_streak]

I have a question...

If the 2nd man in the promo was Triple H then why he didn't come with the trench coat on him?


Because there was no second man in the promos. It was just Taker.

[Bodom]

Because there was no second man in the promos. It was just Taker.

This^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Get it though your heads people.

[Outsider]

Because there was no second man in the promos. It was just Taker.
If it was just Taker then why the first (even all) promo(s) was so mysterious?

[Bodom]

If it was just Taker then why the first (even all) promo(s) was so mysterious?

It's called building interest. Get to people to WANT to tune into Raw on 2/21

[Outsider]

At the 2/21/11 Monday Night RAW show, none other than Steve Borden aka STING was supposed to descend from the rafters and interrupt the staredown between The Undertaker and Triple H. However, part of the wired equipment malfunctioned and Sting was unable to make his scheduled entrance. The Stinger ended up hanging from the rafters for several minutes, completing less than a quarter of his descent, until the WWE staff found a way to pull him back up.

[Nay_Than]

At the 2/21/11 Monday Night RAW show, none other than Steve Borden aka STING was supposed to descend from the rafters and interrupt the staredown between The Undertaker and Triple H. However, part of the wired equipment malfunctioned and Sting was unable to make his scheduled entrance. The Stinger ended up hanging from the rafters for several minutes, completing less than a quarter of his descent, until the WWE staff found a way to pull him back up.

Still in denial?

[Rich Cranium]

At the 2/21/11 Monday Night RAW show, none other than Steve Borden aka STING was supposed to descend from the rafters and interrupt the staredown between The Undertaker and Triple H. However, part of the wired equipment malfunctioned and Sting was unable to make his scheduled entrance. The Stinger ended up hanging from the rafters for several minutes, completing less than a quarter of his descent, until the WWE staff found a way to pull him back up.

http://newspirates.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/are-you-on-drugs.jpg

[Nay_Than]

I think this is a better image to use for that quote -

http://implied.facepalm.de/facepalm_implied.jpg

[Outsider]

Just kidding guys. Calm down

[Necroyeti]

If I'm being honest, I really don't care much about HHH vs. Taker, and I don't think it'lll be very good either.

If it weren't a WrestleMania match, the whole "guy who almost never jobs cleanly vs. guy who almost never jobs cleanly" thing might have piqued my interest... but even Haitch isn't that much of a cunt to break the streak to put himself over.

[Outsider]

This segment was retarded. They advertise 2.21.11 for 3 weeks as a BIG BIG THING only to be a 2 minute segment with a face off?

Why in the world WWE have not left the Undertaker to say something? 2-3 words and then Triple H could interrupt him.

[Trips88]

This segment was retarded. They advertise 2.21.11 for 3 weeks as a BIG BIG THING only to be a 2 minute segment with a face off?

Why in the world WWE have not left the Undertaker to say something? 2-3 words and then Triple H could interrupt him.

Because I was supposed to be one of those iconic moments where nothing needed to be said. Like the old sayin goes, actions speak louder than words.

[PJaybe]

Sometimes isn't it nice to have a little bit of suspense about who'll win a match.........

Philip

[THEKEVINBRAND]

This segment was retarded. They advertise 2.21.11 for 3 weeks as a BIG BIG THING only to be a 2 minute segment with a face off?

Why in the world WWE have not left the Undertaker to say something? 2-3 words and then Triple H could interrupt him.

but it still gave raw its biggest rating in years, next week it'll be back to the same old shit, and after wrestlemania everyone will disappear again

[TakerMania]

but it still gave raw its biggest rating in years, next week it'll be back to the same old shit, and after wrestlemania everyone will disappear again

Wow you're Proabably The most Positive person I've ever seen

good 4 you

[clrj3514]

It's called building interest. Get to people to WANT to tune into Raw on 2/21
Thank God!

[SantiPain]

The only disappointed people are the ones who swore it was anybody but Taker.

Those people who thought than a song saying ain't no grave that can hold my body?? Jesus it was so obvious. Song, boots.......

[Flyyisha]

I can't wait to see this match.. there are ENDLESS possibilities

[Roy]

Triple H and The Undertaker are the ones putting together their current program for WrestleMania 27, with minimal input from WWE creative.

Taker was originally scheduled to face Wade Barrett and Triple H was set to face Sheamus at WrestleMania but the two got together and realized that WrestleMania 27 had no special match. As WWE’s two most power political forces, they felt they could take control of their own angle without much in the way of outside influence.

Shawn Michaels is still expected to be introduced into the storyline and have a role at WrestleMania, possibly as a referee or an enforcer. The idea behind the storyline is that Triple H is going at Taker for revenge after Taker ended his best friend’s career.

Source: http://www.prowrestlingscoops.com/wwe/wwe-news/photos-backstage-maryse-personal-shots/

[HuGrad]

i never saw this coming, but i guess they could not build a different rivalry since Taker was out. Kane already fought him twice. hhh and taker would be great but hhh better not win that match. if he does and doesnt get the world title, then what did he really accomplish???

[Automatic]

Well it's official WWE.com confirms that Undertaker vs HHH will happen, but it's not streak vs career (yet maybe).

[TheMiz]

but its actually been 10 wrestlemanias/years since Taker Vs HHH at WM17

[SaberToothTigerz]

yea they could use that as a build up

[K2Jelly]

I don't know about that. Maybe as a fun fact for HHH from the Undertaker to discourage him, but not as the main source of build up.

[The Brown One]

They have so much to use, other than that little fact for hype for this year's Mania. e.g. They are both old, have carried the company, have carried their respective brands, are both retiring soon, Triple H feels that he must break the streak to add to his list of accomplishments, Taker wants to beat the corporate son, and so forth.

[TakerMania]

in WWE.com they're using the (10 years sinse their WM17 ecounter) and (Taker Ended Shawn's Career ) and ( they're the Top legends in The Company Today ) to Build up The Match

damn this match is Big

[Ladygodiva]

HHH is such a letdown. Always carried by more entertaining stars.

I'd like to see Taker fighting someone new or another legend like Sting.

[SaberToothTigerz]

HHH is such a letdown. Always carried by more entertaining stars.

I'd like to see Taker fighting someone new or another legend like Sting.

oh hai there
are u perhaps from 2 weeks ago when u thought sting was coming to play?
well sorry but dixxie carter and bischoff pissed on all of u

[Ladygodiva]

oh hai there
are u perhaps from 2 weeks ago when u thought sting was coming to play?
well sorry but dixxie carter and bischoff pissed on all of u

Settle down Princess. New member.

Anyone with any sense knew Sting wouldn't sell out to WWE, would love to see Sting V Taker but won't happen.

[thejman93]

In order to be special do you guys think this match needs to be Streak vs. Career or is there enough history between the two men to build a good story without putting HHH's career on the line?

Personally I'd like to see HBK as the special ref rather than Streak vs. Career.

Thoughts?

[Deadman's_streak]

In order to be special do you guys think this match needs to be Streak vs. Career or is there enough history between the two men to build a good story without putting HHH's career on the line?

Personally I'd like to see HBK as the special ref rather than Streak vs. Career.

Thoughts?

There's more than enough history to make this a good storyline and match. Triple H has faced Taker before and as stated earlier, 10 years ago at wm aswell. Not to mention Taker ended hbk's career last year.

I don't think this needs to be a career vs streak match but if Trips really wants to be done, then it's going to happen. It all depends wether he wants to continue wrestling or not.

If the rumors are indeed true, the way I see this playing out is that hbk's career will be the reason why trips wants Taker's streak. And possibly we will get to see Shawn on Raw trying to convince H not to do it because Taker is unbeatable.

Shawn was shown respect by Taker after their match, so I doubt he would be angry at Taker. So I don't think he will be taking any sides although Trips will probably get mad at him or ask him to support him. Thus leading to hbk being the ref at wm and calling the match down the line and Taker winning.

After the match I possibly see Shawn telling Trips he's sorry but had to do it leaving Trips angry with Shawn and pedigreeing him for his final and farewell Heel turn that he's always wanted to end his career with.

Or they could just hug it out and leave gracefully. It could go either way but this should definatly be interesting...

[Trips88]

HHH has stated that he wont wrestle till he's 100 but this is not his last Mania by far.

[Reloval]

Yes or no and why?

[The Grand Wizard]

It would be good but they have not said anything about that yet.

[SilverGhost]

His wrestling career but not his business career.

[samoan619]

i hope he does, wrestlemania is a good way to bow out, get the shawn and ric flair goodbye treatment..

[Leggo]

Is the match at mania between taker & hhh career vs streak?

[Sinliner]

Okay im not on this website everyday so forgive me if this has been covered,
The undertaker is still injured! jeez its so obvious thats the reason undetaker and triple h have only progressed this storlyine through promos and vignettes is because undertaker is injured. I know its making this build up pretty piss poor, but what else could they do? risk undertaker getting injured again before the biggest ppv of the year? something else that seems to be upsetting people is the fact that the undertaker/HHH match from 10 years ago isnt being acknowledged, and all i can say about that is..............meh, who cares? i mean i noticed they left it out too but cummon is it really that big a deal? not really.
In closing, Yes the fued is alittle "boring" "repetetive" but im not really sure how else they couldve built this fued? except if they kept taker off the card completely?

[GoldSpirit]

Undertaker v HHH no holds barred.
I believe HHH will win.

To list Undertaker's wrestlemania matches (details from WWE.com):

Shawn Michaels - in a Career vs. Streak Match, The Undertaker defeated Shawn Michaels - for the second year in a row - and not only extended his legendary streak to 18-0, but also ended the storybook career of The Icon...

Shawn Michaels. it proved to be a battle between darkness and light when Undertaker faced off against "Mr. WrestleMania" Shawn Michaels to improve his legendary record to 17-0 in what many would argue was the greatest match in WWE history.

Edge. Undertaker had never beaten Edge, so his perfect WrestleMania streak was in dire jeopardy. The Rated-R Superstar proved that he was up to the task of withstanding The Phenom’s mightiest blows, including a Tombstone Piledriver and Last Ride, until Undertaker locked Edge in his mysterious submission hold. Edge finally tapped out, relinquishing both his World Heavyweight Title and unbeaten record against The Phenom.

Batista. Undertaker defeats Batista. After a hard-fought battle, the Phenom put the Animal away with a Tombstone Piledriver, in the process capturing the World Heavyweight Championship.

Mark Henry. Undertaker defeated Mark Henry in a Casket Match. After nailing Henry with a Tombstone, the Deadman rolled the World's Strogest Man into the casket to seal the victory.

Randy Orton. the legendary Deadman ran his record to 13-0 when he took on Legend Killer, Randy Orton.

Kane, the Deadman returned to the ring to renew his rivalry with brother Kane after the Big Red Monster buried him alive at Survivor Series 2003.

Big Show & A-Train. Undertaker was scheduled to team with Nathan Jones to take on Big Show & A-Train. Instead, a pre-match attack by the opponents left Nathan Jones injured, forcing the Deadman to go it alone.

Ric Flair. At No Way Out 2002, Ric Flair cost Undertaker his match against The Rock. The Deadman then challenge Flair to a match, a challenge "The Nature Boy" initially resisted.

Triple H. In early 2001, Triple H said that he had no one left to beat. Undertaker took offense to that, challenging The Game to a match

Big Boss Man. In early 1999, Undertaker was doing everything he could to torment Mr. McMahon. the WWE Chairman sent his personal henchman, Big Boss Man, to battle the Deadman inside Hell in a Cell.

Kane. In 1997, Kane debuted in WWE, costing his brother the first-ever Hell in a Cell Match at Badd Blood. Finally, after months of torment, Undertaker agreed to fight his brother.

Sycho Sid. Undertaker looked to improve his WrestleMania record to 6-0 when he took on Sid for the WWE Championship.

Diesel. In early 1996, Undertaker & Diesel each cost the other an opportunity to win the WWE Championship. the two big men settled their score as Undertaker looked to go 5-for-5 at WrestleMania.

King Kong Bundy. After Ted DiBiase's Corporation stole Undertaker's urn at the 1995 Royal Rumble, the Deadman was looking for revenge when he faced Corporation member King Kong Bundy

Giant Gonzales. In mid-1992, Undertaker began a lengthy rivalry with Harvey Wippleman. the crafty manager gave Undertaker his toughest challenge yet in the form of the nearly 8-foot tall Giant Gonzales.

Jake "The Snake" Roberts In 1991, Undertaker & Jake "The Snake" Roberts were allies, terrorizing the likes of Ultimate Warrior & Randy Savage. After the Deadman had a change of heart in early 1992, he was Roberts' opponent.

Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka Undertaker made his WWE debut at the 1990 Survivor Series. Four months later, he made his WrestleMania debut by defeating Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka

Obviously, The streak is not simply a gimmick but a testimony to the history of the undertaker, the WWE, Wrestlemania, and the wrestling business.

So, Why do i think HHH will break Undertaker's streak?
I don't believe that the match is a foregone conclusion. if so, all of the build up.all of the hype is for nothing.

The streak has taken on a life of it's own. As time has dragged it has become all but a certainty that Undertaker will win.
It's all about the streak. But it didn't start that way. There wasn't a plan in place that fateful night against Superfly, that 18 years later The Dead Man would be undefeated. The streak grew, at least at first, in a more organic way. At least as organic as Professional wrestling can grow. Only in the past few years has it gone from the streak to "THE STREAK".
Did anyone truly believe that HBK was going to beat 'Taker? no. we knew he was done. That was HBK's farewell. And it was one of a farewell at that.
But this brings me to a deceptively simple question. What's the point of the match if it's already a foregone conclusion as to the outcome?
They will put on one hell of a match, of that i have no doubt. These are two legends. These are pretty much the last two giants of the industry actively wrestling. Both are near the end of their in-ring careeers. What is to be gained or lost by an undertaker win? the same for HHH?
I will concede the point that The Undertakers streak is important. But does it define him? Is that his legacy? Or is his legacy his entire body of work? Would a loss at Wrestlemania mean that body of work is null and void? would a loss to HHH make Undertaker any LESS of a legend? Tough questions, really.
As for HHH. What would a win mean? Is it the most importantmatch of his career, as he stated on Raw last night? Will it tarnish his legacy to lose? What would it mean for him to win?
Does Undertaker beating HBK twice in a row and then HHH the year after automatically make Undertaker the Greatest wrestler in WWE History? If not, what does it mean?

I , personally, believe that The undertaker's career will be fine and his legacy intact even if he does end up losing to The Game. And, in fact, that's what I believe will happen.
HHH will beat The Dead Man.
I say this, not based on legacy or career. I say this because the WWE is a business. Yes, Undertaker going undefeated at Wrestlemania is good business. I believe HHH breaking the streak is better business.
The WWE has been pulling alot of tricks out of its proverbial bag as of late. If you have not noticed they have been slowly and , somewhat, quietly moving away from the extremes of PG programming. Though that may have little to do with the match on a superficial level, deeper down the WWE has been trying to create moments... Iconic moment, memorable moments, Shocking moments. I don't see why Wrestlemania should be any different. In fact, If they wanted to do something different...something outside of the box, WM is the grandest stage of them all. This is the Professional wrestling equivalent of the Superbowl.
However, the numbers for TV and PPV have been down and have been down for a long time. Without competition the WWE got stale. It rested on it's laurels. This caused the company to atrophy in a way. This is a publicly traded company. They need to deliver.A win by undertaker is great. I love the streak. However, i don't believe it is in the best interest of the company.
Tell me, is a match exciting if you know the result ahead of time? Sure you can appreciate it. Enjoy it. Waaatch it... but are you emotionally invested in it?
If the streak WEREN'T unbreakable. if you knew there was a chance HHH could actaully beat him, would you be more or less likely to watch?
I would definetely be more likely. Hell, I'd be on the edge of my seat, eyes glued to the set. As it stands, knowing that The Undertaker can't lose. That no matter how much story and build up their is, at the end of the day, 'Taker will win. Well, that takes aaway from what wrestling was and should be. Just because he is 18-0 doesn't mean he should win number 19.
Seeing "Undertaker vs. whoever" on the WM card is like seeing :The harlem globetrotters vs. the Washington generals". Yesm it;ll be a hell of a show. It'll entertain, but you know the outcome. i would rather see Jordan and the bulls in the finals with a CHANCE than Meadowlark Lemon and the globetrotters. Jordan won 6 rings. But he didn't win everytime. did that take away from his legacy? no.
I understand thats a bit of a clunky analogy. But you understand what I mean.
A Win by HHH would not tarnish Undertakers legacy.
A bold statement, but The undertaker's career is greater than the sum of it's parts. He is more than the streak.
What a HHH win would do is rock the wrestling world. i think it would help the business. It gives Wrestlemania an air of unpredictability and excitement that would, naturally, be carried over to it's television product. If your going to have Taker v HHH headline Wrestlemania in what is a "down" period in the business, I would like to believe the WWE would want more than a globetrotters game. This is, for all intents and purposes, a transitional period on the industry. Perhaps, in a waym it would be a sort of "rebirth" for Wrestlemania. Make it "Must see" televison again.
For a long time the Streak has put me off from Wrestlemania... If i know the outcome, why watch in the first place? Again, to use the globetrotter analogy, if you like basketball what would you rather see? A game you know will be entertaining, but it's outcome is already known, or an NBA finals game in which anyone can win? what would you be more invested in as a fan. Wrestlemania has been a string of Globetrotter games. I believe the WWE is going to "flip the script" and HHH will win out.
Now, this could set up a rematch between the two for next years WM... and THAT match would be absolute MUST SEE televison.
I have high hopes for the WM (even if i have posted otherwise.) I'm hoping the WWE makes this an unforgetable expirience for their fans. It can make and break careers. It can make stars out of guys. They can play it safe or they can make history.

[GoldSpirit]

had to edit this down. 1,500 characters too long at first. yikes.
Please feel free to tell me I'm wrong, or if you agree with me then please let me know. But I ask that you explain. This is something I am very curious about and have thought about at length. If you have anything to add, do so.
Please bear in mind, i wrote this at 4 am. It probably doesn't make alot of sense. i will add to my thoughts tomorrow...or is it now today? If there happens to be anything that needs to be clarified or maybe I'm just plain worng about.
Thanks guys.

-Pike

[THEKEVINBRAND]

Having Undertaker lose at WrestleMania? What kind of drugs have you been taking? Seriously, Undertaker's streak is the only thing that's keeping WrestleMania interesting these days, I seriously don't give a shit about Snooki wrestling or Cole vs Lawler, the only match that's kept me pumped for WM is Undertaker's streak. So having Undertaker lose at WM would make WrestleMania suck balls, the matchups don't excite me right now, so having this outcome would ruin wrestling for me. ome will agree saying that 'Taker's streak is the only thing that's keeping 'Mania alive these days.

[GoldSpirit]

the one match you know the outcome of?
tell the truth... did you even read my post or did you "TL:DR" me?

Thats the one match I'm least excited for because "UNDERTAKER WON'T LOSE". If he COULD lose, and I think it'd be a great year for it to happen, then it would be the th only thing keeping mania alive.
I'm more excited by ADR v Edge....(v christian?)
I WANT to be excited. I remember when undertaker debuted,,, I saved my allowance to by the issue of WWF magazine with him on the cover and brought it to school. good times.
The streak bores me, it takes the fun out of it. "Anyrhing can happen in the WWE!...except Undertaker losing at Wrestlemania." as if the ring is MADE out of that magical urn or something.

[THEKEVINBRAND]

the one match you know the outcome of?
tell the truth... did you even read my post or did you "TL:DR" me?

Thats the one match I'm least excited for because "UNDERTAKER WON'T LOSE". If he COULD lose, and I think it'd be a great year for it to happen, then it would be the th only thing keeping mania alive.
I'm more excited by ADR v Edge....(v christian?)
I WANT to be excited. I remember when undertaker debuted,,, I saved my allowance to by the issue of WWF magazine with him on the cover and brought it to school. good times.
The streak bores me, it takes the fun out of it. "Anyrhing can happen in the WWE!...except Undertaker losing at Wrestlemania." as if the ring is MADE out of that magical urn or something.
TL:DR? whatever, i'm saying edge vs. del rio doesn't excite me because well edge has been in the main event before and i'd rather see a world champion vs a contender both of whom that have never seen the light of day at wrestlemania. i don't know any outcome out of any match what am i, wwe creative? i am excited because this is the only time undertaker pulls out moves that we've never seen before (see: kills camera man at WM 25)...anyways im not gonna waste my time arguing who's right and who's wrong and acting like im 6

[RevolutionIcon]

I was thinking the same thing that it's almost time to shock people with the death of the streak and that there's not much time left to end the streak, Undertaker will be gone eventually. And surely as nice as it would be to let him retire with an undefeated streak, 18 WM Wins in a row looks just as good as 19, just as it looks just as good as Ric Flair's 16 title reigns. It won't take away from him.

I'll put it this way. Bret Hart wasn't allowed to retire with the WHC. Undertaker can keep his streak, but pass the torch down to someone before you go, by ending your streak, beating the Undertaker isn't enough, that's forgettable. But beating the Undertaker at WM, what a fucking push that would be.

I want him to drop the streak to someone who deserves it. To be honest, the sad thing is, nobody does deserve it. Not Cena, not Orton, not JOMO, not Punk, not Edge, not anybody. Because Undertaker should have passed it down to someone who was involved with his career long term, HBK was perfect for it, but these guys are aging too damn fast.

Out of anyone in that locker room, HHH deserves it the most. His legacy is well deserved, pussy on the side and all, he earned it. To deal with a woman, your children, and her fathers company, which is huge, give it to HHH. I'm still waiting for him to surpass Flair, just no more movies.

[ihearvoices]

I think HHH will lose this WM but Next year Taker will lose because IMO the one Match Taker hasn't have yet at WM was a 3way or 4way. IMO a 3way would be a perfect Set up to a HHH vs taker vs HBK....I know HBK keeps saying in interviews and on twitter he will stay retired but Come on with all the interviews on Raw...With HBk Speaking so Much about the Taker vs hhh saying "Nothing last Forever" it just Spells out a Screw Job...HBk Costing HHH the match or Maybe even Taker who knows...But i rather see Hbk Costing HHH the match so there could be a 3way next year WM...it would be a Epic Match between 3icons and plus a Great Send off For taker...

[jethro]

I dont want the streak to end honestly,before this I thought Orton was the one would end Taker's streak and after that HBK.Only two of them I thought can be a legit threat to Taker's streak.

[TheMiz]

he means TL; DR too long didnt read

[The Brown One]

I appreciate you thinking of "The Streak" as a business Gold, but I simply can't agree with your opinion about the outcome of the match. We don't know what will happen if Taker loses. Maybe he will continue to compete, and perhaps even compete at Wrestlemania again, or maybe he will retire after he loses at Wrestlemania. But if he was to stick around if he lost, then I would see that as a blemish on a...well perfect record. I'd much rather have the streak go on to 19-0, and if if Taker's up for it, 20-0. The streak has indeed evolved, from a match several years ago pitting The Undertaker against Jimmy Snuka. But its become so great, that at this point, it outweighs the prestige of any of the titles in the business. We have seen the prestige of those titles slip, including the world titles, as we have been witnesses to short title reigns, multiple title reigns, and everyone getting a shot at the title. And in this day, many more superstars can get a world title shot, if Vince sees money in them. The streak however, is something that cannot lose prestige, unless it is broken. It is something that will most likely never be done again, and won't be allowed to be done again anyway, since it is an honor to hold such a "feat".

[Lowki]

Too long to read all of that (especially after several hours of university study) but from flash reading i get the jist i think. You think Triple H will win because the streak is TOO predictable now?

If it was for Triple Hs career then i could see him pick the W up. But now the idea of a career on the line match has been scrapped i think Undertaker will probably win this. The streak isn't about who ends it these days, it's more about how close someone can get to ending it. I agree about the Streak only recently becoming "THE STREAK" though. I can remember that undertaker and Edge didn't seem that big of a deal. It wasn't until the HBK fued that it really became about ending the streak (although the streak was always included; the first HBK match really made the streak the main attraction of mania).

[GoldSpirit]

Your point :
"The streak isn't about who ends it these days, it's more about how close someone can get to ending it."

That sort of reaffirms my position. How can you get any closer than HBK did? He had TWO shots at The undertaker and came damn close to beating him. Watch last years match again, especially Taker's selling at the end. You can't get any closer than shawn did without actually beating him.
As for the notion of it being a "foregone conclusion". After 18 Wrestlemanias in which the Undertaker has wrestled in and won, it stands to reason he is going to win again. If they are going to let the streak remain undefeated, which seems to be the concensus in the wrestling fan community, then the result of the match is already set in stone. I was not referring to what would happen POST match, simply the result (i.e. winner) is going to be UT. That, to me, is boring, The match it self may be spectacular, but the result is boring. If everyone knows the result of your MAINEVENT then what suspense is there? It's like going to see a movie you already know the ending of. Thats why, when the result is known ahead of time, it's called a SPOILER.... because it SPOILS the movie. In this case, "knowing" UT is going to win "SPOILS" the match. That's why I don;t think it IS a foregone conclusion that he will win. That's why i think someone can and will beat him. And thats why I think HHH will win. UT barely survived the last two by HBK. Those matches were as good as it gets from those two. What more is there to do other than someone finally beating Taker? How do you top those performances? HHH wins.

i, personally, don't think "The streak" is really as impressive as it's made out to be. We are talking about scripted entertainment. It's not as if he actually beat these guys or anything. It's all "creatives" choice that The Dead Man doesn't lose.
I , too, would like to see him "pass the torch" as it were, but the point made about there being a legitimate wrestler to pass it to is correct. I suppose we could argue the merits of a number of guys. Tops on my list is CM Punk. I just think he is the total package. But I digress.

As far as this match goes, I am really feeling like HHH is going to do it. I think it's a case of "one to many" for Taker.
One interesting aspect is HBK's involvement. It would not surprise me in the least if he did interfere and cost HHH the match. Obviously it's no holds barred (great movie btw.) so the interference wouldn't allow for a win or loss by DQ. I think that their having made it NHB is an indication of what may happen. i.e. HBK.
In one scenario, and it seems to me the most likely, HBK "supports" HHH's attempt to beat Taker at Wrestlemania but, being the HBK we all know, cannot allow what should have been his to be HHH's. namely, being the one to end the streak. The HHH/Undertaker "feud" has lasted, what, a month? with a lackluster buildup? Shawn's feud with Taker was over the course of more than a year and "cost" him his career. It was an "obsession" (kayfabe) and to have lost, not only the match but his "livelihood" to UT, and then to see his best friend go out there and potentially "steal his thunder" for lack of a better term, is more than enough motivation for HBK to "get involved". What that involvement entails is a matter of conjecture, but the point is made. Shawn would have reason to get involved physically with this match.
However, outside of any HBK involvement, there is simply HHH. He has his motivations. He stated so last night on RAW (before punking the ever loving hell out of DiBiase. Great for him to get a push though.).
I think this years Wrestlemania is going to have more than one shocker (not THAT shocker). The biggest one of all is when HHH's hand is raised.

[GoldSpirit]

thanks for moving this and confusing the hell out of me. I hate when threads get moved. i understand it, but I hate it.

[GoldSpirit]

a more realistic scenario would be the involvement of HBK costing HHH the match. Taker keeps his streak, and we get a year to build up either HHH v UT streak v career OR HHH v HBK with HHH's career on the line. Those are the only two guys I can see HHH ending his career with at this point.
Perhaps a three way next year? HBKvHHHvTaker? Taker wins, gets 20, HBK retires for good, HHH retires because of the loss.
This is all speculation, obviously, as HBK has said he will not wrestle again (i don't believe a word out of ANY wrestlers mouth, especially regarding retirement. There are only so many deer to shoot in the face with a crossbow before you want to go out, slap on your sequined chaps, and kick someone in the face.)

[thejman93]

HBK 'll wrestle again no doubt in my mind about that. Not a full schedule but a WrestleMania 28 appearance seems very possible to me.

[tad locust]

Wade Barret would have made an intriging opponent if the original Nexus were still around because that would have been a fresh storyline. The HHH-Taker storyline is too similar to the HBK-taker feud. The new Nexus have become Punks whipping boys,and The Corre are entertaining but havent established themselves enough. And rather base the taker-HHH feud around the tenth anniversary of there first mania match there acting like it never happened.