Percy Pringle, known worldwide as Paul Bearer, carved a niche in the wrestling world that few could shadow. His journey began under the bright lights of World Class Championship Wrestling, where he first made his mark managing champions amidst the turbulent times of wrestling's territorial days. As the effervescent manager of WWE's iconic Undertaker, Pringle transformed into Paul Bearer, a character as memorable for his haunting presence as his eerie, drawn-out call of "Ohhh yesss!" Bearer's unique, ghostly persona, complete with ashen face and dark, circled eyes, became a staple of WWE programming through some of its most pivotal years. His tenure in wrestling spanned over three decades, during which he witnessed and contributed to the evolution of the sport from its regional territorial roots to its status as a global spectacle. Pringle's deep, personal connections with wrestling royalty like the Von Erich family and his pivotal role in the careers of numerous wrestlers underscored his importance behind the scenes as much as on screen. His candid reflections on the industry, combined with poignant recollections of personal and professional highs and lows, painted a picture of a man deeply embedded in the fabric of professional wrestling. Despite the challenges, including shifts in audience perception and personal tragedies, Pringle's passion for wrestling never waned. His move to managing The Undertaker transformed his career, aligning him with one of wrestling's most enduring figures. This partnership not only defined his career but also reshaped wrestling's narrative, giving rise to some of the most memorable moments in WWE history. Paul Bearer remains a beloved figure, remembered as much for his significant impact on the wrestling industry as for his distinctive character work that captivated millions worldwide. His legacy is a testament to the enduring allure of wrestling's theatrical magic, a blend of performance, personality, and storytelling that continues to enchant fans across generations. - **(00:02-01:07)** Percy Pringle discusses how the wrestling landscape changed when Fritz Von Erich broke away from the NWA, creating their own champion, and his own excitement at managing a world champion for the first time. - **(01:36-02:11)** Reflecting on the decline of the World Class Championship Wrestling, Pringle believes the territory declined after several key events and tragic family incidents that led to bad publicity, contrasting with his personal career success during that period. - **(04:23-05:54)** Pringle shares personal anecdotes about his relationship with the Von Erich family, particularly his close bond with Kerry Von Erich and the impact of the family’s tragedies on public perception and their careers. - **(06:36-07:38)** Discusses the shift in his viewing habits due to changes in wrestling product quality and his reduced interest in contemporary wrestling shows, except for notable matches like those involving Ric Flair. - **(16:10-25:15)** Recounts his transition from the wrestling scene in Texas to joining the WWF (now WWE), including how he became the manager of The Undertaker as Paul Bearer, highlighting the creative process behind his character and the significant impact of his role on his life and career.