WATCH: The Undertaker, Who Once Wanted to Have a Career in Basketball, Channels His Inner Kobe Bryant in This Perfect Shot

For better or for worse, we know and love Mark Calaway, the man behind The Undertaker, only for his work in WWE. But the man has many talents hidden behind The Phenom character. For instance, before following the path of wrestling, Calaway was looking to go pro in basketball. And years later, it seems like he is reminiscing about those high school days.

The Undertaker is one of the biggest legends that WWE has ever seen. His work ethic and love for the sport are evident from the way he wrestles. Also, he was from a select few wrestlers who completely reinvented themselves multiple times. From the Deadman to the American Badass, people often compare the Undertaker to the late great NBA legend, Kobe Bryant.

READ MORE: The Undertaker Goes Back to His Basketball Roots By Pulling Off an Awe-inspiring Trick

Kobe Bryant was one of the most decorated players in the sport’s history. At his death ceremony, not only basketball fans but people from all industries came to honor the legend. He was a true trailblazer and redefined what it took to be an athlete.

WWE Legend The Undertaker calls out Kobe Bryant while throwing trash into the bin

The Undertaker was interviewed for his documentary ‘The Last Ride’, in which he abruptly threw something into the trash, saying, “I don’t think it takes too big a brain surgeon to figure out what’s gonna happen. Kobe.” Even WWE chimed in the joke tweeting:

We could trace the basketball love that The Undertaker has all the way back when he graduated from high school. After studying college on a basketball scholarship, Calaway was set to make a career of playing basketball. But when an $80,000 contract was presented to the young Mark, he declined and decided to go the wrestling route.

Recreating moments from the WWF or imitating Hogan, The Iron Sheik, and Roddy Piper, Calaway discovered his love for wrestling. And we’re very glad that he did. Because without The Undertaker, WWE wouldn’t have become the billion-dollar company that it is today. While Steve Austin and The Rock may have boosted the ratings, The Phenom was right beside them holding the pillars when they left.

WATCH THIS STORY: LeBron James Once Refused to Meet WWE Legend The Undertaker Despite Him Being At His Door

His continued loyalty and discipline to the sport also attracted many wrestlers to join the brand. Not to mention his over-the-top theatrics with the character of The Undertaker, which bring to life fascinating characters like The Fiend or House of Black to this day.