4. Begin The Signals
The other option for WWE is to not have The Undertaker return at Survivor Series, but begin a series of video vignettes and viral media which debuts at the event. In the past this has proved extremely effective in promoting a big return. For example, Chris Jericho's "SAVE_US" videos were excellent in promoting his comeback in 2007. WWE could do similar mystery videos for The Undertaker to promote his Wrestlemania 30 return, and they have done it in the past. But these videos could be different. They could promote Taker's return but also serve to signify his retirement. The lights could go out at Survivor Series and a message could come up on the titantron "IT ALL BEGAN HERE. THE END IS COMING." It would be an exciting prospect for WWE fans, and by promoting the news that Taker is retiring it would give the business a boost heading into Mania. There is money to be made from promoting the retirement in advance to look at a different industry, when Sir Alex Ferguson announced he would retire a week before Manchester United's final home game of the 2013 season. Tickets which had been trading for £90 online (to see the trophy presentation) suddenly rocketed up to £3,000. WWE can enjoy the same benefits. If it is known that Undertaker will retire at Wrestlemania 30, chances are ticket prices will go up and more people will be convinced to buy the pay per view. Survivor Series can start this sensationalism. The potential for creativity is varied. How about ending the Survivor Series show with the lights going out and coming back on to show a grave stone in the ring that states "1990 - 2014"". It's just an idea I'm sure the WWE can come up with something far more clever to tease the return and retirement of their biggest legend.