JBL Calls 1996 Buried Alive WWE Match Horrible, Credits Undertaker's Impact

The Buried Alive match, first held in 1996 between The Undertaker and Mankind, remains one of WWE's most infamous gimmick matches and was critically reviewed by WWE Hall of Famer JBL, who called the concept "horrible" and "preposterous." Despite the idea's flaws, JBL credited its success entirely to The Undertaker's star power and the audience's genuine shock, who believed the burial was real, even fearing fans might intervene physically. JBL also recounted the logistical issues during the match, where wrestlers struggled to shovel enough dirt to convincingly bury The Undertaker, leading WWE to use machinery for subsequent matches. Separately, a 1998 casket match between The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels resulted in a severe back injury for Michaels, nearly ending his career, though he eventually returned after a hiatus. In addition, JBL praised Kane as an underrated big man wrestler, noting his intellectual nature and versatility, which contrasted with his monstrous character and may have hindered his legacy. These reflections highlight the blend of spectacle, physical risk, and character complexity that define WWE's storied history.