In 2004, Fertig pitched the idea of a religious character named Malachi to Vince McMahon. In late April 2004, Fertig was called up to the SmackDown! brand with vignettes playing on the show announcing his new character, Mordecai, a religious Zealot-type character, which was partially based on his previous Seven gimmick. During numerous promos, Mordecai claimed to be on a crusade to rid the world of sin. He consistently wore white and had blonde hair and a beard as a sign of his purity. Mordecai debuted in-ring for the SmackDown! brand on May 16, 2004, during the Judgment Day pay-per-view, defeating Scotty 2 Hotty. In later appearances, Mordecai condemned the audience for their sins, and led them in prayer.