By Bob Simpson
As a wrestling fan, I get a lot of eye-rolls, especially from my more sophisticated friends who view the world of professional wrestling as a bit of a joke. When asked why I'm such a fan of a sport that is so disrespected and dismissed by the intellectual elite, my answer is simple: I love great performers. Sure, watching guys fly off the top ropes or engage in 5 minute rest holds can be interesting, but it's the entertainment aspect, the drama of professional wrestling that has hooked me since I was a child watching the indecipherable promos of the Ultimate Warrior.
My most memorable wrestling moments haven't been spectacular matches, but the moments in between. Just a few of these are CM Punk's career-defining moment, now known only as "The Promo," the birth of Austin 3:16, and Jake Robert's epic, legendary promo about The Million Dollar Man.
Character is the other element that has captured my attention over the years, and this week the world lost one of the best. William Moody, aka Paul Bearer, was one of the best managers of all time, and created one of the sport's most lasting and unique characters. A mortuary owner, Paul Bearer was the on again/off again mentor for The Undertaker, Mankind and Kane, and was featured in some of professional wrestling's most memorable moments. With his high-pitched squeal and undeniable creep factor, Paul Bearer added an element of evil to a company known for flashy colors and over-the-top performers.
Here are some great moments from the man himself:
For wrestling fans everywhere, let me shout my appreciation to Paul Bearer, and let's hope he rests in peace.
