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Dutch Mantel Shoot Interview (2012) 10/10/12

In this revealing 2012 shoot interview hosted by Dr. Tom Prichard, Dutch Mantel reflects on a wrestling career that spanned nearly five decades as a wrestler, manager, booker, and creative mind. Mantel discusses his rise through the territorial system, working in promotions such as Mid-South Wrestling, Memphis Wrestling, Puerto Rico’s WWC, and the Continental territory, where he became known as one of wrestling’s sharpest talkers and most respected veterans. He shares stories about working alongside legends including Jerry Lawler, Bill Dundee, Jerry Jarrett, Bruiser Brody, Randy Savage, and The Von Erichs, while offering insight into the successes and failures of the territory era.

Mantel also discusses his transition into wrestling’s creative side, including his influential booking work in Puerto Rico and TNA Wrestling, where he helped shape some of the promotion’s most successful periods. Never one to shy away from controversy, Dutch gives candid opinions on Vince McMahon, WWE’s corporate culture, and many of the company’s biggest stars. He also addresses his return to WWE as the outspoken Zeb Colter alongside Jack Swagger, discussing the highly controversial character, fan reactions, media backlash, and the creative process behind one of the most talked-about gimmicks of the era. Filled with blunt opinions, behind-the-scenes stories, and decades of wrestling knowledge, the interview showcases why Mantell remains one of the industry’s most respected and outspoken personalities.