Paul Bearer Interview with Insane Johnny:
Insane Johnny: How can you share your experience working for WCCW Owned by the Von Erichs?
Paul Bearer: I really enjoyed my six-years in Dallas. I loved The Sportatorium, and felt as though I was a part of The Von Erich Family. I actually had tears in my eyes the last time I walked out of that old arena. Even though I had been in the business over 10-years when I started in Dallas, everyday was a learning experience for me. I worked in the office in addition to my on-camera roll as a Manager. I wrote and published The Sportatorium Wrestling program for almost 5-years. I promoted my own shows under the WCCW and USWA banners, and I handled all the merchandising for both companies as well.
Insane Johnny: Who made the first call for you to work for the WWE?
Paul Bearer: My dear friend and former partner, 'Ravishing' Rick Rude put me in contact with Vince McMahon. I talked to Vince and was immediately hired as The Undertaker's Manager.
Insane Johnny: I know you have had a lot of them, but tell us some of your Greatest Highlights in the sport of wrestling.
Paul Bearer: Yes, I have so many memories. I really have been blessed. I will never forget the night The Undertaker beat Hulk Hogan for The WWF Title. Also the night at The Sportatorium when Eric Embry and myself tore The WCCW banner off the walls..
Insane Johnny: Is there any goals you have left you want to go after?
Paul Bearer: I have literally lived every dream I have ever had. The only thing left is opening my own independent federation in my home town. When the time is right, that will happen.
Insane Johnny: If Vince McMahon or Jim Ross called you in the next 5 Minutes to come back to the WWE, Would you?
Paul Bearer: If the deal was right, sure. I would be crazy not too. It's the only game around.
Insane Johnny: At one point in the WWE, Did WCW or ECW ever cross your mind to work for when the two companies were still in the Biz?
Paul Bearer: No. I had a solid job in The WWF for 12-straight years. I never need to think about working for anyone else.
Insane Johnny: If you can, can you share your experience, opinion, or anything that comes to mind when I name the following Wrestlers:
Paul Bearer:
The Von Erichs - A fine family that always gets a bad rap they really don't deserve.
"Stone Cold" Steve Austin - I helped train him in the very beginning and was his Manager and Tag-Team partner in Dallas.
The Undertaker - I managed him in his first pro match at The Sportatorium. He wore a mask as 'Texas Red'.
Brother Love - A dear friend. My best friend in the WWF.
Mick Foley - A class act.
Vader - A big teddy bear cry baby.
Kane - The nicest guy in The WWE. Too nice for his own good.
Vince McMahon - A business man. Do your job, he'll take care of you.
Million Dollar Man - Another dear friend, who is doing The Lord's work these days.
Insane Johnny: OK this is a little off the subject but a fan wants to know is Kane married.
Paul Bearer: I do not talk about the personal lives of my friends.
Insane Johnny: How is your career going now?
Paul Bearer: Good. I have more time off than I have had in 20 years. I really needed it.
Insane Johnny: Do you have a signed contract with the NWA/TNA Roster?
Paul Bearer: No.
Insane Johnny: Do you still follow the WWE and how do you feel about the rate it is going since you left?
Paul Bearer: If I know something is going to be on that interests me, I watch. If not, I don't watch anymore.
Insane Johnny: What in your opinion was the greatest Match of all time you have been a part of?
Paul Bearer: Every WRESTLEMANIA that I ever appeared in was great to me.
Insane Johnny: What are some of your favorite story lines you acted in?
Paul Bearer: The Kane/Undertaker story was a lot of fun.
Insane Johnny: What is the hardest thing you ever had to do in the WWE?
Paul Bearer: When the Undertaker and I split up for the first time.
Insane Johnny: Finally what advice do you have for young males including myself who dream of making it to the Sport of Wrestling?
Paul Bearer: If your heart tells you that it's for you. Reach for the stars!
Here is the link to Paul Bearer's Offical Site:
Paul Bearer
Interview took place: June 16, 2003.
Insane Johnny is a friend of mine who conducted this Interview with Paul Bearer.
Hope you enjoyed it,
Iceman
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