Why WWE's Decision to Pass on a Taker vs STING Match Was a Mistake

For wrestling fans, nothing gets the blood boiling like the thought of a classic showdown between two of the greatest wrestlers in the business: The Undertaker and STING. This article delves into the reasons why WWE failed to capitalize on a potential match between these two legends and argues that such a showdown would have been a slam dunk hit for wrestling audiences.

Understanding the Legacy of STING and The Undertaker

STING and The Undertaker (Taker) were two of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling. Their unparalleled chemistry in the ring, both as heavy division champions and in various tag team partnerships, created some of the most memorable moments in wrestling history. The idea of bringing these two together for a monumental match could have seen the pinnacle of their careers and would have been a phenomenal spectacle for wrestling fans.

WWE's Misuse of STING

When WWE initially leased the services of STING, they clearly had no grand plan for integrating him into their roster. Instead of creating a storyline that would capitalize on the anticipation of a Taker vs STING showdown, which would have been an absolute dream for fans, WWE demonstrated little interest in meaningful storytelling. Instead, they focused on overshadowing STING's significance with their own roster.

Take, for example, how WWE used STING in their 2007 reboot. When they acquired STING, his storyline was subpar and only served to further highlight the perceived ego and hubris of WWE management. It's no longer surprising that when WWE needed to incorporate STING into their narrative, they overplayed their hand, reinforcing the notion that no one is bigger than WWE.

Potential for a Legendary Match: A Missed Opportunity

One of the most glaring missteps from WWE was their lack of vision for a Taker vs STING match. By the time WWE signed on to the concession of the WCW era, the opportunity for a grandiose moment had already slipped away. Even in the concert halls of World Wrestling Entertainment, there's an inherent lack of respect and regard for legends like STING, especially after their careers have seen the rise and fall of the Vince McMahon era.

A Looming Shadow: Vince McMahon's Influence

The debate over a Taker vs STING match is complicated by the influence of Vince McMahon, the patriarch of WWE. During the WCW era, McMahon's decision-making overruled all thought of a monumental showdown. Wrestling enthusiasts would have swooned to see Taker and STING take on the world in a WrestleMania match, even if their careers were already waning. Regardless of the physical condition of the wrestlers, a match between these two legends would have resonated with fans who yearn for a return to the golden age of wrestling.

The Current State and Future of WWE

However, it's essential to consider the current state and potentially the future of WWE with a new generation of leadership. Without Vince McMahon's oppressive influence, could we have seen a resurgence of nostalgia and fan satisfaction through matches like Taker vs STING? While such a match would require extraordinary narrative storytelling and the two wrestlers to be in peak physical condition, it's not beyond the realm of possibility. In the absence of Vince McMahon, WWE would have the freedom to explore new frontiers of storytelling and wrestling entertainment, potentially spawning a magical match that could please fans once again.

The Undeniable Power of Legends

In the end, the Undertaker's legacy is one of being a walking legend, with every appearance cementing his status in professional wrestling. However, insisting on a mainstream match between him and STING would be foolish. Both legends have a right to their legacies and the respect of wrestling fans. A match that would have united them in the ring would have certainly drawn heavy criticism from fans, regardless of the outcome. Ending such a match with both wrestlers sitting on the ground, unreachable by a referee, could be a unique solution, but it's a display more suited to a leaked video or a wild fan theory than a mainstream WWE storyline.

While the idea of a Taker vs STING match buzzes with excitement, it's clear that the potential for such a match was squandered due to WWE's lack of vision and strategic missteps. Fans can only speculate on what could have been, but the loss of a match between these two legends remains a haunting reminder of missed opportunities in professional wrestling.