Sting vs. Undertaker is likely dead, so we should probably let it rest ... in ... peace

Steve Borden, known by his longtime pro wrestling moniker "Sting," turned 55 last March.

That makes him eligible for the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and gets him 20 percent off his Grand Slam breakfast at Denny's. Heck, there are all kinds of senior perks afforded to folks who are 55 and over.

Being a WWE wrestler should not be one of them.

What's important to note here, is that Sting still has value in the wrasslin' business. I hope he (eventually) signs a legends contract, one that will not only get him back on television, but also bring closure to a career that to date, still feels incomplete.

I understand why he never wanted to work for Vince McMahon, but the idea of having TNA bookend his memorable body of work is unsettling.

Having said that, I think it's time to close the door on a big-money bout against The Undertaker. While "The Deadman" is a couple of years younger than Stinger, his WrestleMania 30 match against Brock Lesnar was a clear sign that he's one bump away from resting in peace.

The idea is to have Sting go out looking good.

I'm not sure that's possible since Taker's streak has expired. Removing the suspense of whether or not the record will be broken, in my estimation, will uncloud our vision, and leave nothing but two aging performers who would need to have a great match to make it worthwhile.

When's the last time you saw a great match from Sting?

That's not to suggest the door should be slammed shut. There are plenty of instances where he could be used in-ring that would not compromise his image. There is the tried-and-true tag team or triple-threat match, where he gets tagged in, lands a few power shots or cleans house on a hot tag, then tags back out.

Protect him, make him look strong, generate some pops.

It's what Creative had in mind for Hulk Hogan upon his return from the TNA wasteland, until his back went into business for itself. Understandably, the WWE doctor didn't want to have the signature on the medical release match the one on the death certificate.

And so Hulkster has been relegated to the role of tongue-tied emcee.

But Sting can be more than that in a limited legends role. I'm sure his pride will want more, but it's unlikely the organization would agree to a prominent position at his age, when you also consider the creative limitations Sting would impose upon his character.

I doubt he wants to come back to the squared circle just to get gored by El Torito.

Sting is a bona fide badass, and a good one at that, who carries with him the glory days of WCW. Back then, you could repel from the rafters, wield a baseball bat and wreck shop at will. Times have changed, and so has Sting, but there's still plenty of time left for a curtain call.

He doesn't need The Undertaker for that.

In fact, if Sting is going to take one "last ride," it should be straight into the WWE hall of fame.