Teddy Long is celebrated as an iconic figure in WWE history, particularly for his tenure as the SmackDown General Manager from 2006 to 2012. Long, who initially entered the wrestling world as a referee in 1998 and later managed Mark Henry, became especially known for his entertaining catchphrase, “one-on-one with The Undertaker.” This phrase became a staple of the show, often marking the moment when he would pit a top heel against The Undertaker in memorable matches that captivated audiences.
Recently, on the ‘Road Trip After Hours’ podcast, Teddy Long recounted the origins of this famous catchphrase. He explained that it was inspired by a piece of advice he overheard from former WWE CEO Vince McMahon during an event at Madison Square Garden. Long recalled Vince emphasizing the need for greater energy in introductions. Taking that to heart, when tasked with introducing The Undertaker later that evening, Long added his twist with the enthusiastic declaration of “one-on-one with The Undertaker!”
The response from Vince was positive, as Long noted that McMahon gave him a thumbs up afterward. This catchphrase not only enhanced Long’s role on SmackDown but also helped solidify his legacy, culminating in his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2017.
This story illustrates how inspiration can strike in the most unexpected moments and how a single phrase can become a lasting part of wrestling lore. Teddy Long’s contribution to the WWE world has left a significant impact, and fans continue to cherish his work.