The Undertaker: Storytelling and Character Work Trump Athletic Ability in Wrestling Success

One Big Thing

WWE legend The Undertaker explains how he built a Hall of Fame career with just “five moves,” emphasizing the importance of storytelling over athletic ability in professional wrestling.

Key Details

• The Undertaker (Mark Calaway) shared his insights during a WrestleRant interview
• He stressed that connecting with audiences is more valuable than athletic prowess
• Calaway now coaches WWE recruits on the reality series “WWE LFG

Direct Quote

“If you make them care, you’ve won, and that is the biggest thing,” Calaway said. “I had a pretty decent career with five moves. But I evoked emotion and made people care, one way or another. That’s how you become a legend.”

Why It Matters

This perspective from one of wrestling’s most successful performers challenges the modern focus on high-flying moves and athletic spots, suggesting that character development and storytelling remain essential for long-term success in professional wrestling.

By the Numbers

• 30+ year career in professional wrestling
• 21-year WrestleMania winning streak
• 7-time world champion
• 2022 WWE Hall of Fame inductee

Current Role

The Undertaker now shares his expertise as a coach on “WWE LFG,” mentoring new talents including:

• Tamyra Mensah-Stock (Tyra Mae Steele) – Olympic Gold Medalist
• Thunder Justice Keck (Shiloh Hill) – Former Stanford defensive end

The Bottom Line

The Undertaker’s success with a limited moveset proves that creating emotional connections with fans through storytelling and character work can lead to sustained success in professional wrestling.

What do you think about The Undertaker’s approach to wrestling? Does today’s style focus too much on athletic ability and not enough on storytelling? Share your thoughts in the comments below.