The Undertaker Reflects on His Greatest “Smaller” Opponents
The Undertaker, a legendary figure in the WWE, recently shared his insights into the most impactful “smaller” wrestlers he has encountered throughout his illustrious 30-year career. On his “Six Feet Under” podcast, The Undertaker, also known as “The Phenom,” revealed his ‘Mount Rushmore’ of wrestlers under six feet tall, a list that includes some of the most skilled and revered names in the industry.
Celebrating Wrestling Greats: Eddie Guerrero, Kurt Angle, and AJ Styles
Late great Eddie Guerrero topped The Undertaker’s list, renowned for his charisma and in-ring prowess. Alongside Guerrero, The Undertaker named Kurt Angle and AJ Styles, both of whom are celebrated for their technical expertise and high-flying agility. These wrestlers, despite their smaller stature, have left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling.
The Controversial Inclusion of Chris Benoit
The Undertaker’s selection also included a more controversial name: Chris Benoit. Known in the ring as “The Crippler,” Benoit was a respected wrestler until his life took a tragic turn in 2007. The Undertaker acknowledged Benoit’s wrestling acumen, stating, “I’m gonna go with The Crippler, Chris Benoit. Again, a wrestling machine, [he] just, could go … He was that guy, he was not a big guy at all, but when he got going, you forgot. You forgot that he was such a small guy in stature.”
Addressing the Legacy of Benoit
Benoit’s inclusion on The Undertaker’s list opens a complex debate about the legacy of a wrestler whose end was mired in tragedy and controversy. Benoit, after committing a horrific crime, was found to have suffered from severe CTE, raising questions about the impact of wrestling on mental health. The Undertaker’s choice to include Benoit is a nod to his in-ring abilities, separate from the circumstances of his death.
Undertaker’s Personal Experiences with Benoit
Reflecting on his encounters with Benoit, The Undertaker praised his style, noting that Benoit’s in-ring performance made him appear larger than his physical stature. He shared, “I worked with him a few times and had some really, really outstanding matches with him. I did know when I worked with Chris that I needed to put my track shoes on because it was gonna be go time.”
A Legend’s Perspective on Wrestling’s Diverse Talents
The Undertaker’s choices for his ‘Mount Rushmore’ of “smaller” wrestlers provide a unique insight into the diverse talent pool within professional wrestling. His recognition of these wrestlers, including the controversial Chris Benoit, highlights the complex nature of legacy and the indelible impact these athletes have had on the sport.
