“I Thought He Was CRAZY” Undertaker’s former coach reveals how The Deadman once declined a big 6-digit offer by a Basketball Scout
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The Undertaker is perhaps the most iconic character in WWE history. Mark Callaway, better known as The Undertaker is one of the few superstars that have changed the aura of professional wrestling.
The conviction with which Callaway has dedicated his life to Undertaker is impeccable. But, we often say life is about choices and choices are what make all the difference. The Phenom also had a choice 30 years ago, a choice which was difficult, an offer that was tempting, but Callaway chose what he wanted to do.
Undertaker’s former coach reveals how The Phenom rejected a whopping amount to choose his passion
Many aren’t aware of Callaway’s love for Basketball, and how a Basketball scout gave Undertaker one of the biggest offers at that time to recruit him. Undertaker’s former coach Richard Hoogendoorn revealed in an interview with Bleacher Report that a European basketball scout was ready to pay a blistering amount of $80000 to recruit Taker.
This was much higher than what was being offered to other NBA players at that time, as the scout saw an undeniable potential in Taker. Standing over 6’9″ inches tall, Taker was an extraordinary basketball talent as he had also dropped out of college to pursue a career as a professional basketball player.
Therefore, Taker’s decision to choose professional wrestling over basketball caught his coach off guard as he said- “I thought he was crazy.” Well, seeing the amount that he was offered, anyone would say so.
But, Taker’s decision ultimately proved to be a blessing in disguise as he went to become one of the most respected wrestlers throughout the professional wrestling industry.
The Undertaker was recently inducted into The Hall of Fame, The Class of 2022, by none other than Vince McMahon himself. Just Imagine if Taker would have gone on to take that offer, we wouldn’t have gotten the legendary character of The Undertaker.
At that time, when he was still struggling to make a name for himself, he chose morals over money. He listened to his instinct and followed what he thought was right for him. This goes on to show the metal which Taker is made of and surely deserves everything that he has achieved today.
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Chirag Goyal
(438 Articles Published)