Undertaker Vs. Big Boss Man: A WWE Rivalry Breakdown

The rivalry between The Undertaker and The Big Boss Man in WWE is one that many fans remember, albeit sometimes with mixed feelings. This clash of titans, pitting the dark and supernatural against law and order (albeit a corrupt version), was a significant part of the WWE landscape during the late 1990s. Let's dive deep into what made this feud tick, its key moments, and its somewhat controversial ending.

The Genesis of the Conflict

The seeds of this rivalry were sown in the Attitude Era, a time when WWE was pushing the boundaries of sports entertainment. The Undertaker, already an established icon, was leading the Ministry of Darkness, a sinister group that terrorized the WWE roster. The Big Boss Man, on the other hand, was a member of The Corporation, a stable representing corporate greed and authority, led by Mr. McMahon. Their contrasting allegiances immediately set them on a collision course.

The initial interactions were typical of faction warfare. The Ministry and The Corporation were constantly at odds, and both Undertaker and Boss Man were key players in their respective groups. These clashes involved sneak attacks, backstage brawls, and interference in each other's matches. However, the rivalry became deeply personal when The Big Boss Man started targeting The Undertaker directly, escalating the feud to uncomfortable levels. He and the Corporation attempted to destroy the ministry and all it stood for, leading to even more brutal attacks. What made this feud unique was the personal nature of their conflict. It wasn't just about winning matches; it was about breaking the other man, both physically and mentally. The Big Boss Man repeatedly attacked The Undertaker, often ambushing him during or after matches. He used his nightstick with brutal efficiency, leaving The Undertaker battered and bruised. These assaults were not just random acts of violence; they were calculated attempts to undermine The Undertaker's aura of invincibility. But it was the kidnapping that truly set this rivalry apart.

The Infamous Kidnapping Angle

One of the most controversial and memorable moments of this feud was the kidnapping of The Undertaker's associate, Stephanie McMahon. Yes, you read that right. The Big Boss Man, under the orders of Mr. McMahon, kidnapped Stephanie to inflict psychological damage on The Undertaker. This storyline element was highly criticized for its dark and disturbing nature, even by the standards of the Attitude Era. The image of The Big Boss Man driving away with a distraught Stephanie McMahon is etched in the minds of many fans, representing a low point in WWE storytelling for some. The whole ordeal sparked a massive backlash, and understandably so. People questioned whether it was a step too far, even for the Attitude Era. The controversy surrounding the kidnapping angle undoubtedly added fuel to the fire of the Undertaker-Boss Man rivalry, intensifying the animosity between the two characters. Whether it was good for business is still debated today, but it certainly made headlines.

The Hell in a Cell Match at WrestleMania XV

The culmination of this heated rivalry arrived at WrestleMania XV, where The Undertaker and The Big Boss Man faced each other inside Hell in a Cell. This structure, a 16-foot high cage made of steel, is notorious for its brutality, and their match lived up to the reputation. The match itself was not a technical masterpiece but rather a showcase of raw aggression and violence. Both men unleashed a barrage of attacks on each other, utilizing the steel structure as a weapon. The Undertaker, fueled by vengeance, dominated much of the match, delivering his signature moves and punishing The Big Boss Man relentlessly. The Big Boss Man, known for his toughness and willingness to cheat, tried to mount a comeback, but The Undertaker proved too powerful.

The ending of the match is perhaps its most memorable aspect. The Undertaker defeated The Big Boss Man after delivering a Tombstone Piledriver. But what happened next shocked the world. After the match, The Brood (Gangrel, Edge, and Christian) descended from the rafters and hung The Big Boss Man from the cell. This visual was extremely controversial and remains a talking point among fans to this day. Some found it shocking and inappropriate, while others saw it as a fitting end for a villain who had committed heinous acts.

The Aftermath and Legacy

After WrestleMania XV, the rivalry between The Undertaker and The Big Boss Man effectively ended. The Undertaker continued his dark path, while The Big Boss Man eventually faded from the main event scene. While their feud was relatively short-lived, it left a lasting impact on WWE history, mainly due to its controversial and shocking moments. The Hell in a Cell match, in particular, remains infamous for its ending, solidifying its place in WrestleMania lore. The feud also highlighted the extremes that WWE was willing to go to during the Attitude Era, pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable on television. It's a reminder of a time when WWE was unafraid to take risks, even if those risks sometimes backfired. Looking back, the Undertaker-Big Boss Man rivalry is a mixed bag. It had its moments of intensity and drama, but it was also marred by questionable storylines and over-the-top violence. It's a feud that sparks debate and discussion, a testament to its enduring, if controversial, legacy.

Big Boss Man's Career Beyond the Undertaker Feud

Let's take a moment to appreciate The Big Boss Man's career beyond this specific rivalry. Before becoming entangled with The Undertaker and the Ministry of Darkness, The Big Boss Man had already established himself as a formidable force in WWE. He initially debuted as a heel, a corrupt prison guard, and quickly gained notoriety for his imposing size and aggressive tactics. His early feuds with Hulk Hogan and other top babyfaces solidified his status as a credible villain. However, The Big Boss Man later transitioned into a fan favorite, aligning himself with good guys and showcasing a more heroic side. This face turn allowed him to demonstrate his versatility as a performer and connect with the audience in a different way. He even had a memorable run as a tag team champion alongside Ken Shamrock. Throughout his career, The Big Boss Man was known for his dedication to his craft and his willingness to play any role asked of him. He was a reliable performer who consistently delivered solid matches and compelling storylines. While the Undertaker feud may be one of the most talked-about chapters of his career, it's important to remember the many other contributions he made to WWE.

The Undertaker's Continuing Evolution

Of course, The Undertaker's career is a story in itself. Even during and after his feud with The Big Boss Man, The Undertaker continued to evolve and redefine his character. He transitioned from the leader of the Ministry of Darkness to the American Badass, a biker persona that resonated with fans and showcased a different side of the Deadman. This constant reinvention allowed The Undertaker to remain relevant and exciting for decades. He continued to have memorable feuds with the likes of Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, Triple H, and Shawn Michaels, cementing his status as one of the greatest WWE superstars of all time. The Undertaker's ability to adapt and evolve is a testament to his talent and his understanding of the wrestling business. He was always willing to try new things and take risks, which is why he remained a top draw for so many years. His legacy extends far beyond any one feud, encompassing a career filled with championships, memorable matches, and unforgettable moments. His evolution shows how much someone can change, adapt and stay relevant in such a fast-paced environment.

Final Thoughts on a Controversial Clash

The Undertaker vs. Big Boss Man rivalry is a fascinating case study in WWE storytelling. It represents a time when the company was willing to push boundaries and take risks, even if those risks sometimes resulted in controversy. The feud had its strengths, including the intense animosity between the two characters and the spectacle of the Hell in a Cell match. However, it was also marred by questionable storylines and over-the-top violence. Ultimately, the legacy of this rivalry is one of debate and discussion. It's a reminder that not all wrestling storylines are created equal, and that some moments are more memorable for the wrong reasons. However, it's also a reminder of the power of wrestling to evoke strong emotions and spark passionate conversations. Whether you loved it or hated it, the Undertaker vs. Big Boss Man feud is a significant part of WWE history that continues to be talked about to this day. So, what do you guys think about this rivalry? Was it a classic example of Attitude Era storytelling, or a step too far? Let us know in the comments below! Ultimately, its impact on wrestling history remains undeniable. It serves as a potent example of the risks and rewards inherent in pushing the boundaries of sports entertainment, leaving fans and critics alike pondering its significance for years to come.