Inductee: Paul Bearer
Presenter: Kane
Kane says that before he got into the wrestling business, Paul was an undertaker in real life. He talks about his time in Mid-South and breaking into the business as “Mr. X” before becoming a manager, before finally arriving in WWE alongside The Undertaker, who he calls the greatest wrestling character of all time.
Kane puts over his saga with ‘Taker but says none of it would be possible without Paul. The crowd doesn’t like the reference of Alabama State football. He tells a funny story about having to wear a ski mask to conceal his identity, and driving to an arena with Bearer screaming “Kane can drive!” to fans waiting to get in. He welcomes his sons Michael and Daniel Moody who accept the award on behalf of their father. One of the kids does a SPOT ON “oh yes!” impression.
As the kids leave the stage, the lights go out in the arena, and the Undertaker slowly makes his way out to his traditional entrance. He raises an urn in the air as a “RIP William Moody” image is shown on the screen.
KILLAM: Really cool. Some people on Twitter seemed surprised at how well-spoken Kane was during that speech. Not many fans know, but Glen Jacobs is one of the smartest guys in pro wrestling. Nice touch with The Undertaker at the end. It would have been nice to hear him talk, but I understand the need to preserve the character.
