At times, WWE uses certain elements in their storytelling that divide opinion among the fans. In 2013, when they used the death of William Moody aka ‘Paul Bearer’ in the feud between The Undertaker and CM Punk, it was again divisive. Many at that time felt it was wrong, including The Undertaker himself.

Paul Bearer, who played the role of ‘Taker’s on-screen father for many years, passed away in March 2013. During that time, Mark Calaway was involved in a story line feud with CM Punk, which culminated in a match at WrestleMania 29.

However, WWE went ahead and included Bearer’s death into the feud, which upset some fans.

The Undertaker was conflicted about involving Bearer

At the time of his feud with CM Punk, ‘The Deadman’ had creative control over his character and stories.

During the feud, Punk took shots at the late Moody and even poured his “ashes” over an unconscious Undertaker while Paul Heyman dressed up in Bearer’s classic look.

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Fans criticized the angle and felt it was in poor taste. The Undertaker himself initially felt that way and was conflicted.

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A while ago, when WWE released the documentary ‘The Mortician: The Story of Paul Bearer’, Calaway spoke about how he felt during that time.

He explained, “At this point, I have a little bit more say on whether things happen or not. And I was conflicted.”

But he said he realized it was the character Bearer that was involved and not the real William Moody. He decided it was exactly what Bearer would have wanted, given his love towards the business.

Taker continued. “But then we kind of come to the conclusion like, Paul would love this,” he added. “We’re using the character. We’re not talking about Bill Moody, we’re talking about Paul Bearer. And he absolutely would have loved it. His character is still relevant at this point, and that we’re using it.”

From WWE and Calway’s point of view, they saw this as a tribute to the legendary manager and something to honor his memory.

Kane agreed with The Undertaker’s opinion

Glenn Jacobs, who played the role of Calaway’s on-screen brother Kane in WWE, also backed ‘The Phenom’.

Jacobs said, “That’s what he would’ve wanted,” “They built an entire WrestleMania angle around Paul Bearer. And some folks [are like], ‘Oh gosh, that’s disrespectful.’ No, that’s the biggest compliment, and that’s the biggest tribute that you could’ve given him.”

Paul Bearer served as manager for both The Undertaker and Kane during his time in WWE. He was involved in memorable story lines with them over two decades, often switching sides during their feuds.

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