In a recent episode of The Six Feet Under podcast, Bruce Prichard, a veteran WWE producer, opened up about his strong opposition to one of the most pivotal moments in wrestling history – the end of The Undertaker’s undefeated WrestleMania streak. The decision, made in 2014 at WrestleMania XXX, saw The Undertaker lose to Brock Lesnar, drawing a massive reaction from the audience.
Business Logic vs. Emotional Connection
According to Prichard, while he understood the business logic behind breaking The Undertaker’s streak – making Brock Lesnar a credible champion and creating a new dynamic in the WWE landscape – he couldn’t help but feel a strong emotional connection to the moment. “It was like taking a punch to the gut,” Prichard revealed, describing the sense of loss and disappointment he felt when the decision was made.
A Text to Vince McMahon
As it turns out, Prichard’s feelings weren’t just confined to his own personal emotions. He also made his stance clear to Vince McMahon, the WWE chairman, in a text message. Prichard explained that he sent a message to Vince, expressing his reservations about the decision, but ultimately, it was a call made with the best interests of the company in mind.
The Undertaker’s Reactions
The Undertaker, one of the most beloved and respected figures in WWE history, has also spoken publicly about the decision. In a recent interview, The Deadman expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of such an iconic moment, even if it meant losing to Brock Lesnar.
Backstage Reactions
Sources close to the WWE have revealed that the decision to end The Undertaker’s streak was met with a mix of emotions backstage. While some producers and writers saw it as a necessary step to create a new era in the WWE, others, like Prichard, felt a strong sense of loss and nostalgia for the classic era of professional wrestling.
According to a WWE insider, “There were definitely some people who were against ending The Undertaker’s streak. They felt it was a part of what made WrestleMania special, and that it was a risk to tamper with something that had become such an integral part of the event’s identity.”
A Legacy that Continues to Endure
Despite the controversy surrounding the decision, The Undertaker’s legacy continues to endure. His undefeated streak at WrestleMania remains one of the most iconic moments in WWE history, and his character continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.
As Prichard himself put it, “The Undertaker’s streak was a part of what made WrestleMania so special. It was a reminder that, even in a world of predetermined outcomes, there was still something magical and unpredictable about the event.”
Conclusion
The decision to end The Undertaker’s undefeated WrestleMania streak may have been a necessary step for the WWE, but it’s clear that it was a moment that still resonates with many of those who were a part of it. Bruce Prichard’s opposition to the decision, as expressed in his text message to Vince McMahon, highlights the emotional connection that many people had to this moment, and serves as a reminder of the impact that professional wrestling can have on fans and the people who work in the industry.