Normally, around this time of year, WWE Monday Night Raw is just a weekly build towards Wrestlemania. Last night, it was also a celebration of an old friend, Paul Bearer.
William Moody aka Paul Bearer's life in the WWE was celebrated from the opening of the show. Fans were asked to watch a video celebrating the life of one of WWE's most beloved characters, who WWE CEO Vince McMahon referred to as "the most unique manager" in the history of wrestling. There were highlights that made fans laugh and tear up, culminating in him receiving a standing ovation as they chanted Bearer's name.
But that was just the beginning:
The Undertaker gave tribute to his old friend, but was interrupted by CM Punk who talked trash about the Undertaker including mockingly saying that there will be no tributes to Bearer the night after Wrestlemania.
Big Show defeated Seth Rollins by DQ after interference by The Shield.
Dolph Ziggler defeated Daniel Bryan. After the match, Big E hits his finisher on Bryan.
Triple H challenged Brock Lesnar.
Tensai vs Fandango - Fandango left befor the start of the match because Tensai stopped Naomi from pronouncing his name.
Cody Rhodes and Damien Sandow vs. The New Age Outlaws - Match was interrupted when Brock Lesnar came out and destroyed the NAO.
Heyman says Lesnar will accept his challenge as long as they get to name the stipulations of the match.
Mark Henry defeats Kofi Kingston after catching him in mid-air for the World Strongest Slam.
The Bella Twins returned.
Ryback defeated Heath Slater. After the match, Drew McIntyre attacked Ryback. Not only did McIntryre get shellshocked, but Mark Henry entered the ring and they kept one-upping each other as for who could destroy McIntyre the most.
Alberto Del Rio defeated Antonio Cesaro.
Randy Orton and Sheamus defeated Danien Sandow and Cody Rhodes.
The Miz and Chris Jericho fought for the chance to face Wade Barrett for the Intercontental belt. Both were disqualified when Barrett interfered.
Jack Swagger defeated Sin Cara. After the match, Swagger kept his Patriot Lock on Cara. Alberto Del Rio came in for the save.
Kane defeated Punk. After the win, the Undertaker and Kane go down on one knee to pay tribute to Paul Bearer. Punk grabs Paul Bearer's urn and beats Kane with it and steals it before Taker can make the save.
Throughout the night, the WWE Universe were allowed to give their favorite memories of Paul Bearer by sending Tout videos. The night also featured vignettes of some of Paul Bearer's most memorable moments. You'd have to think that a consummate pro and all around character like Paul Bearer would've loved being the focal point of what could be the best match at Wrestlemania 29, if not the most anticipated.