Shawn Michaels: Difference between revisions
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Hickenbottom later worked as a sole performer, taking on a new persona of "The Heartbreak Kid." He was the leader of a backstage group known as [[The Kliq]], which was known for performing an unscripted act during the [[Madison Square Garden]] "[[The Kliq#Curtain Call: The MSG Incident|Curtain Call]]" incident in 1996. The following year, he teamed up with Hunter Hearst Hemsley, who often was referred to as Triple H (HHH), and [[Chyna]] to form [[D-Generation X]] (DX). This [[List of professional wrestling terms#S|group of wrestlers]] was known for their sophomoric crude humor. That same year, Hickenbottom took part in one of the most controversial matches in wrestling history, dubbed as the "[[Montreal Screwjob]]." After a back injury forced him to retire following his [[WWE Championship|WWF Championship]] loss at [[WrestleMania XIV]], Hickenbottom opened a wrestling academy, called [[Texas Wrestling Academy|The Shawn Michaels Wrestling Academy]], in which he trained upcoming wrestlers. He made his in-ring return at [[SummerSlam (2002)|SummerSlam]] in 2002. In 2006, Hickenbottom and Triple H briefly reformed DX, but after an injury that Triple H sustained, Hickenbottom returned to singles wrestling. Although as of 2009, the duo reunited as a tag team once more. |
Hickenbottom later worked as a sole performer, taking on a new persona of "The Heartbreak Kid." He was the leader of a backstage group known as [[The Kliq]], which was known for performing an unscripted act during the [[Madison Square Garden]] "[[The Kliq#Curtain Call: The MSG Incident|Curtain Call]]" incident in 1996. The following year, he teamed up with Hunter Hearst Hemsley, who often was referred to as Triple H (HHH), and [[Chyna]] to form [[D-Generation X]] (DX). This [[List of professional wrestling terms#S|group of wrestlers]] was known for their sophomoric crude humor. That same year, Hickenbottom took part in one of the most controversial matches in wrestling history, dubbed as the "[[Montreal Screwjob]]." After a back injury forced him to retire following his [[WWE Championship|WWF Championship]] loss at [[WrestleMania XIV]], Hickenbottom opened a wrestling academy, called [[Texas Wrestling Academy|The Shawn Michaels Wrestling Academy]], in which he trained upcoming wrestlers. He made his in-ring return at [[SummerSlam (2002)|SummerSlam]] in 2002. In 2006, Hickenbottom and Triple H briefly reformed DX, but after an injury that Triple H sustained, Hickenbottom returned to singles wrestling. Although as of 2009, the duo reunited as a tag team once more. |
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Among other accolades, Hickenbottom is a four-time [[World Heavyweight Championship (professional wrestling)|world champion]]: a |
Among other accolades, Hickenbottom is a four-time [[World Heavyweight Championship (professional wrestling)|world champion]]: a three-time [[WWE Championship|WWF Champion]] and a former [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE)|World Heavyweight Champion]]. He was also the winner of the [[Royal Rumble (1995)|1995]] and [[Royal Rumble (1996)|1996]] [[Royal Rumble]]s and was the company's first [[Grand Slam Championship|Grand Slam Champion]]. He has also won the [[Slammy Award]] a record 10 times. Aside from professional wrestling, Hickenbottom is a [[Born again (Christianity)|born-again Christian]], husband, and father of two children. |
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==Early life== |
==Early life== |
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==Professional wrestling career== |
==Professional wrestling career== |
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===Early career (1984–1988)=== |
===Early career (1984–1988)=== |
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Hickenbottom began to train under Mexican professional wrestler [[Jose Lothario]].<ref name=stopper>{{cite web|url= http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/Wrestlemania20/2004/03/14/381421.html|title=Shawn Michaels, still the show-stopper|first=Jaya| |
Hickenbottom began to train under Mexican professional wrestler [[Jose Lothario]].<ref name=stopper>{{cite web|url= http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/Wrestlemania20/2004/03/14/381421.html|title=Shawn Michaels, still the show-stopper|first=Jaya|last=Roopansingh|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|work=Slam! Sports|accessdate=2008-03-29}}</ref><ref name=sm57>{{harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=57}}</ref> During his training, Hickenbottom adopted the ring name, Shawn Michaels.<ref name="HAT"/> After his training with Lothario, he debuted as Shawn Michaels with [[Universal Wrestling Federation (Bill Watts)|Mid-South Wrestling]] and [[Southwest Championship Wrestling|Texas All-Star Wrestling]] (TASW) [[Professional wrestling promotion|promotions]] in 1984.<ref name="HAT">{{cite video|date=2007|title=The Shawn Michaels Story: Heartbreak & Triumph|medium=DVD|publisher=[[WWE Home Video]]}}</ref> During his time with TASW, Michaels replaced [[Nick Kiniski]] in the [[American Force (wrestling)|American Breed]] [[tag team]], teaming with [[Paul Diamond]]. Michaels and Diamond were awarded the [[Texas All-Star USA Tag Team Championship|TASW Tag Team Championship]] by [[Chavo Guerrero, Sr.]]<ref name="slam"/> The team was later renamed American Force.<ref>{{harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=88}}</ref> He also worked for [[Heart of America Sports Attractions|Central States Wrestling]].<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=75–77}}</ref> There, he and tag team partner [[Marty Jannetty]] defeated The Batten Twins for the [[NWA Central States Tag Team Championship|Central States Tag Team Championship]], later losing it back to the Battens.<ref name="slam"/> Michaels also made several appearances in the [[Dallas|Dallas, Texas]]-based [[World Class Championship Wrestling]] throughout 1985. |
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Michaels made his national-level debut at the age of twenty in [[American Wrestling Association]] (AWA), once again teaming with Marty Jannetty.<ref name=stopper/> The pair were billed as "[[The Rockers|The Midnight Rockers]]" and held the [[AWA |
Michaels made his national-level debut at the age of twenty in [[American Wrestling Association]] (AWA), once again teaming with Marty Jannetty.<ref name=stopper/> The pair were billed as "[[The Rockers|The Midnight Rockers]]" and held the [[AWA World Tag Team Championship]], defeating [[Doug Somers]] and [[Buddy Rose]].<ref name=stopper/> In 1987, The Rockers were signed by a competing promotion: the [[World Wrestling Entertainment|World Wrestling Federation]] (WWF).<ref name=stopper/> They were fired from WWF two weeks later, for a bar incident (a misunderstanding, according to Michaels' autobiography).<ref name=stopper/><ref name="sm116"/> They then returned to AWA, but were re-signed by WWF a year later.<ref name="sm116">{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=116–118}}</ref> |
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===World Wrestling Federation=== |
===World Wrestling Federation=== |
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====The Rockers (1988–1991)==== |
====The Rockers (1988–1991)==== |
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{{Main|The Rockers}} |
{{Main|The Rockers}} |
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The Rockers redebuted at a WWF [[house show]] on July 7, 1988.<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=133}}</ref> Due to WWF chairman [[Vince McMahon]]'s desire to have his performers carry WWF-exclusive ring names, Michaels and Jannetty were renamed, as simply "[[The Rockers]]."<ref name="HAT"/> The team proved popular with both children and women.<ref name=stopper/> The team was a mid-card stalwart of television and [[pay-per-view]] shows for the next two years.<ref name=sm148>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=148–150}}</ref> |
The Rockers redebuted at a WWF [[house show|live event]] on July 7, 1988.<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=133}}</ref> Due to WWF chairman [[Vince McMahon]]'s desire to have his performers carry WWF-exclusive ring names, Michaels and Jannetty were renamed, as simply "[[The Rockers]]."<ref name="HAT"/> The team proved popular with both children and women.<ref name=stopper/> The team was a mid-card stalwart of television and [[pay-per-view]] shows for the next two years.<ref name=sm148>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=148–150}}</ref> |
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In October 1990, The Rockers were scheduled to win the [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE)|WWF Tag Team Championship]] from [[The Hart Foundation]] ([[Bret Hart]] and [[Jim Neidhart]]), as Neidhart, half of the championship team, was in the process of negotiating his release from the company.<ref name=sm148/> The match was taped with The Rockers winning the belts, but soon after, Neidhart came to an agreement with management and was rehired.<ref name=sm148/> The belts were returned to the Hart Foundation, while the title change was never broadcast or even acknowledged on television.<ref name=sm148/> When news spread, WWF explained that the original result was void due to a collapsed [[turnbuckle]] in the ring during the bout. A buckle had indeed broken, but not to a noticeable or dangerous extent during the match.<ref name="HAT"/> The Rockers continued their partnership, eventually splitting on December 2, 1991 during an incident on [[Edward Leslie|Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake's]] televised ''Barber Shop'' talk show [[List of professional wrestling terms#P|promotional segment]].<ref name=sm159>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=157–159}}</ref> Michaels [[superkick]]ed Jannetty and [[Defenestration|threw him]] through a [[Sugar glass|glass]] window on the set of Beefcake's talk show.<ref name=stopper/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://sports.ign.com/articles/583/583410p1.html|title=IGN: Shawn Michaels Interview| last=Robinson|first=Jon|date=2005-01-28|publisher=[[News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]] Sports|accessdate=2008-08-06}}</ref> Jannetty disappeared from the company, and Michaels became a villain as "The Boy Toy."<ref name=sm159/> |
In October 1990, The Rockers were scheduled to win the [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE)|WWF Tag Team Championship]] from [[The Hart Foundation]] ([[Bret Hart]] and [[Jim Neidhart]]), as Neidhart, half of the championship team, was in the process of negotiating his release from the company.<ref name=sm148/> The match was taped with The Rockers winning the belts, but soon after, Neidhart came to an agreement with management and was rehired.<ref name=sm148/> The belts were returned to the Hart Foundation, while the title change was never broadcast or even acknowledged on television.<ref name=sm148/> When news spread, WWF explained that the original result was void due to a collapsed [[turnbuckle]] in the ring during the bout. A buckle had indeed broken, but not to a noticeable or dangerous extent during the match.<ref name="HAT"/> The Rockers continued their partnership, eventually splitting on December 2, 1991 during an incident on [[Edward Leslie|Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake's]] televised ''Barber Shop'' talk show [[List of professional wrestling terms#P|promotional segment]].<ref name=sm159>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=157–159}}</ref> Michaels [[superkick]]ed Jannetty and [[Defenestration|threw him]] through a [[Sugar glass|glass]] window on the set of Beefcake's talk show.<ref name=stopper/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://sports.ign.com/articles/583/583410p1.html|title=IGN: Shawn Michaels Interview| last=Robinson|first=Jon|date=2005-01-28|publisher=[[News Corporation]]|work=[[IGN]] Sports|accessdate=2008-08-06}}</ref> Jannetty disappeared from the company, and Michaels became a villain as "The Boy Toy."<ref name=sm159/> |
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====The Heartbreak Kid (1992–1995)==== |
====The Heartbreak Kid (1992–1995)==== |
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{{See also|Shawn Michaels and Kevin Nash}} |
{{See also|Shawn Michaels and Kevin Nash}} |
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At the suggestion of [[Curt Hennig|"Mr Perfect" Curt Hennig]], Michaels adopted the nickname "The Heartbreak Kid."<ref name=stopper/> Along with his new name came a new [[List of professional wrestling terms#G|gimmick]] as a vain, cocky villain.<ref name=shining>{{cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0FCO/is_5_2/ai_68951382?tag=artBody;col1|title=7 Superstars Shining Brightly|first=Anderson|last=Steve|publisher=Find Articles.com|work=Wrestling Digest|accessdate=2008-07-17|month=February| |
At the suggestion of [[Curt Hennig|"Mr Perfect" Curt Hennig]], Michaels adopted the nickname "The Heartbreak Kid."<ref name=stopper/> Along with his new name came a new [[List of professional wrestling terms#G|gimmick]] as a vain, cocky [[heel (professional wrestling)|villain]].<ref name=shining>{{cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0FCO/is_5_2/ai_68951382?tag=artBody;col1|title=7 Superstars Shining Brightly|first=Anderson|last=Steve|publisher=Find Articles.com|work=Wrestling Digest|accessdate=2008-07-17|month=February|year=2001}}</ref> He was put together with mirror-carrying [[Manager (professional wrestling)|manager]], [[Sherri Martel|Sensational Sherri]], who, according to the storyline, had become infatuated with him.<ref name=sm159/> Sherri even sang the first version of his new [[theme music]], "Sexy Boy."<ref name="HAT"/> During that period, Michaels normally wrestled during the first half of live events, and his departure was announced with the words, "Shawn Michaels has left the building" (alluding to the phrase "[[Elvis Presley|Elvis]] has left the building").<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=165–166}}</ref> |
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[[Image:Shawn Michaels in 1994.jpg|thumb|right|175px|Michaels at a live event in 1994]] |
[[Image:Shawn Michaels in 1994.jpg|thumb|right|175px|Michaels at a live event in 1994]] |
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Michaels failed to win the [[WWE Intercontinental Championship|Intercontinental Championship]] from Bret Hart in July 1992, even losing the WWF's first-ever [[ladder match]] |
Michaels failed to win the [[WWE Intercontinental Championship|WWF Intercontinental Championship]] from Bret Hart in July 1992, even losing against him at a live event in the WWF's first-ever [[ladder match]].<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=161–162}}</ref> He, however, won the title from [[Davey Boy Smith|The British Bulldog]] on the [[Saturday Night's Main Event results#Saturday Night's Main Event XXXI|October 27, 1992 edition]] of ''[[Saturday Night's Main Event]]'', which aired on November 14.<ref name=IC-title>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/intercontinental/|title=Title History: Intercontinental|accessdate=2008-07-17|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Shortly thereafter, he was in a pay-per-view main event for the first time, in which he lost to Hart, for the [[WWE Championship|WWF Championship]] at the [[Survivor Series (1992)|1992 Survivor Series]].<ref>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year= 2007|pages=90–91}}</ref> Michaels and Hart were moved to the main event after [[Warrior (wrestler)|The Ultimate Warrior]] was unable to compete in the tag team match that involved [[Randy Savage]] against the team of [[Ric Flair]] and [[Scott Hall|Razor Ramon]].<ref>{{cite book|title=Wrestlecrap: The Very Worst of Pro Wrestling|last=Baer| first=Randy|coauthors=Reynolds, R.D.|publisher=[[ECW Press]]|year=2003|isbn=1-55022-584-7|page=74}}</ref> During this time, Michaels and Sherri split and he engaged himself in a feud with former tag team partner Marty Jannetty.<ref name=stopper/> Michaels lost the Intercontinental Championship to Jannetty on ''[[WWE Raw|Monday Night Raw]]'' on May 17, 1993.<ref name=IC-title/> He then regained it on June 6 with the help of his debuting "[[bodyguard]]" (and off-air friend) [[Kevin Nash|Diesel]].<ref name="HAT"/><ref name=IC-title/> |
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In September 1993, Michaels had quit the company, after it was announced that he had failed to defend his title enough times during a set period; in reality, he had been suspended for testing positive for [[steroid]]s – a charge that Michaels denies to this day.<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=182}}</ref> After turning down [[World Championship Wrestling]] (WCW)'s advances, Michaels returned to the WWF and made several appearances in the [[United States Wrestling Association]] (USWA) during a WWF/USWA cross-promotion. He returned to WWF television |
In September 1993, Michaels had quit the company, after it was announced that he had failed to defend his title enough times during a set period; in reality, he had been suspended for testing positive for [[steroid]]s – a charge that Michaels denies to this day.<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=182}}</ref> After turning down [[World Championship Wrestling]] (WCW)'s advances, Michaels returned to the WWF and made several appearances in the [[United States Wrestling Association]] (USWA) during a WWF/USWA cross-promotion. He returned to WWF television in November at the [[Survivor Series (1993)|Survivor Series]] pay-per-view, substituting for [[Jerry Lawler]], who was dealing with legal issues, in a match pitting himself and three of Lawler's "Knights" against the Hart brothers, Bret, [[Bruce Hart (wrestler)|Bruce]], [[Keith Hart (wrestler)|Keith]], and [[Owen Hart|Owen]].<ref name=pwi92>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|pages=91–92}}</ref> |
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He soon entered a [[Feud (professional wrestling)|staged rivalry]] with Razor Ramon, who had won the vacated Intercontinental Championship, during Michaels' absence.<ref name="ladderbegin">{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=182–187}}</ref> Since Michaels had never been defeated in the ring for the title, he claimed to be the rightful champion and even carried around his old title belt.<ref name="ladderbegin"/> This feud culminated in a ladder match between the two at [[WrestleMania X]].<ref name="ladderbegin"/> Michaels lost the match, which featured both his and Ramon's belts suspended above a ladder in the ring.<ref name=pwi92/><ref name="ladderbegin"/> This match was voted by fans as "[[PWI |
He soon entered a [[Feud (professional wrestling)|staged rivalry]] with Razor Ramon, who had won the vacated Intercontinental Championship, during Michaels' absence.<ref name="ladderbegin">{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=182–187}}</ref> Since Michaels had never been defeated in the ring for the title, he claimed to be the rightful champion and even carried around his old title belt.<ref name="ladderbegin"/> This feud culminated in a ladder match between the two at [[WrestleMania X]].<ref name="ladderbegin"/> Michaels lost the match, which featured both his and Ramon's belts suspended above a ladder in the ring.<ref name=pwi92/><ref name="ladderbegin"/> This match was voted by fans as "[[PWI Match of the Year]]" by ''[[Pro Wrestling Illustrated]]''.<ref name=stopper/> It also received a [[Dave Meltzer#Rating system|5-star rating]] from ''Wrestling Observer Newsletter'' member [[Dave Meltzer]], one of four WWE matches to do so. Over the next few months, Michaels battled various injuries and launched the ''[[WWE Raw#Recurring segments|Heartbreak Hotel]]'' television talk show segment, mainly shown on ''[[WWF Superstars of Wrestling|WWF Superstars]]''.<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=190}}</ref> |
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On August 28, 1994, Michaels and Diesel captured the Tag Team Championship from [[The Headshrinkers]] ([[Samula Anoa'i|Samu]] and [[Solofa Fatu|Fatu]]).<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=195}}</ref> The next day, at [[SummerSlam (1994)|SummerSlam]], Diesel lost the Intercontinental |
On August 28, 1994, Michaels and Diesel captured the Tag Team Championship from [[The Headshrinkers]] ([[Samula Anoa'i|Samu]] and [[Solofa Fatu|Fatu]]).<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=195}}</ref> The next day, at [[SummerSlam (1994)|SummerSlam]], Diesel lost the Intercontinental Championship to Ramon when Michaels accidentally superkicked Diesel.<ref name=pwi92/> This triggered a split between Michaels and Diesel, a storyline that was drawn out until [[Survivor Series (1994)|Survivor Series]] that November.<ref>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards| publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|pages=92–93}}</ref> Michaels went on to win the [[Royal Rumble (1995)|Royal Rumble]] in 1995,<ref name=sm196>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=196–199}}</ref> which set up a championship grudge match at [[WrestleMania XI]] against Diesel (who had gone on to win the WWF Championship from [[Bob Backlund]]).<ref name=sm196/> As part of the storyline, Michaels recruited [[Sid Eudy|Sycho Sid]] as his bodyguard for the build-up, lost the match,<ref>{{cite news|last=Martin|first=Finn|title=Power Slam Magazine, issue 10|work=Tough luck Shawn (WrestleMania XI)|publisher=SW Publishing|date=1995-04-24|pages=20–25}}</ref> and was attacked by Sid the following night.<ref name="Sid attack">{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=204}}</ref> After this, Michaels took time off,<ref name="Sid attack"/> because Vince McMahon wanted Michaels to become a [[Face (professional wrestling)|fan favorite]].<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=203–204}}</ref> |
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====Clique's influence (1995–1997)==== |
====Clique's influence (1995–1997)==== |
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Michaels returned to the ring, as a |
Michaels returned to the ring, as a fan favorite, in May 1995. He went on to defeat [[Jeff Jarrett]] in July at the [[In Your House 2: The Lumberjacks|In Your House]] pay-per-view event, to win his third Intercontinental Championship.<ref name=stopper/><ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=209}}</ref> This led to a title defense against Razor Ramon at [[SummerSlam (1995)|SummerSlam]], in a ladder match, which Michaels won.<ref name=stopper/> Around this time, Michaels became the alleged leader of a backstage group known as [[The Kliq|The Clique]].<ref name=stopper/> Others perceived the group to have sufficient clout with WWF owner Vince McMahon, becoming dominant wrestling figures in the WWF for several years in the mid-1990s. Michaels disputes the perception, saying that McMahon pushed only deserving wrestlers.<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=206–208}}</ref> Michaels' fan base was later nicknamed "The Kliq" as an inside reference to the real "Clique".<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=230}}</ref> In October 1995, he was [[wiktionary:legitimate|legitimately]] attacked by several men outside a bar in [[Syracuse, New York]].<ref name="HAT"/> Shortly afterwards, at the [[In Your House#In Your House 4: Great White North|In Your House: Great White North]] pay-per-view, Michaels forfeited the Intercontinental Championship to staged rival [[Shane Douglas|Dean Douglas]] because he was, according to WWF, unable to compete.<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=213}}</ref> Later in the night, Douglas lost the championship to Clique member Razor Ramon.<ref>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|page=94}}</ref> The next month, during a match with [[Owen Hart]] on an episode of ''[[WWE Raw|Monday Night Raw]]'', Owen performed an [[Professional wrestling attacks#Enzuigiri|enzuigiri]] that struck the back of Michaels' head.<ref name=sm215>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=215}}</ref> They continued the match, but Michaels collapsed in the ring, supposedly because he had suffered a concussion.<ref name="HAT"/><ref name=sm215/> The concussion was scripted, which was kept from most fans at the time.<ref name="HAT"/> A retirement angle was written so that Michaels could take some time off, after he came back from an injury too soon.<ref name="HAT"/> |
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[[Image:Hug MSG Incident.jpg|thumb|left|165px|[[The Kliq#Curtain Call: The MSG Incident|The MSG Incident]].]] |
[[Image:Hug MSG Incident.jpg|thumb|left|165px|[[The Kliq#Curtain Call: The MSG Incident|The MSG Incident]].]] |
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After teasing a retirement, Michaels returned to WWF at the [[Royal Rumble (1996)|Royal Rumble]] match in 1996, which he wound up winning for a second year in a row, to receive a [[WWE Championship|WWF Championship]] match in the main event at [[WrestleMania XII]].<ref>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing| |
After teasing a retirement, Michaels returned to WWF at the [[Royal Rumble (1996)|Royal Rumble]] match in 1996, which he wound up winning for a second year in a row, to receive a [[WWE Championship|WWF Championship]] match in the main event at [[WrestleMania XII]].<ref>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|page=95}}</ref> Around this time, Jose Lothario became Michaels' on-screen manager.<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=219}}</ref> At WrestleMania XII, Michaels defeated Bret Hart in the 'sudden death' overtime of their sixty minute [[Iron Man match]], which had ended in a 0–0 tie.<ref name=stopper/> On May 19, 1996 in an incident known as "[[The Kliq#Curtain Call: The MSG Incident|Curtain Call: The MSG Incident]]," Michaels won a [[Professional wrestling match types#Cages|steel cage match]] against Diesel. After the match ended, Razor Ramon, who was about to leave WWF to company rival WCW, came to the ring and hugged Michaels.<ref name=assael156>{{harv|Assael|Mooneyham|2002|p=156}}</ref> Although [[Triple H|Hunter Hearst Helmsley]] and Nash were seen as villains at the time, in contrast to Michaels and Hall, they were also members of The Clique, and joined in the good-bye hug as a group.<ref name=assael156/> The incident was seen as a rare breach in "[[kayfabe]]", the faux action and storylines that promoters wanted the fans to see as real.<ref name=assael156/> As WCW gained momentum due to the signings of Hall and Nash, Michaels held the championship for most of the year. Michaels' championship reign ended at the [[Survivor Series (1996)|1996 Survivor Series]] event, where he lost to Sycho Sid, his former bodyguard.<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=234}}</ref> Michaels recaptured the championship from Sid in January 1997 at the [[Royal Rumble (1997)|Royal Rumble]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/wwechampionship/304454115|title=HBK's second WWE title reign|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2009-08-25}}</ref> |
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On a special episode of ''Raw'' dubbed ''Thursday Raw Thursday'', Michaels vacated the WWF Championship;<ref name="HAT"/> he explained to fans that he was informed by doctors that he had conjured a knee injury, and that he had to retire.<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=239–240}}</ref> His speech was regarded as controversial, as Michaels was allegedly unwilling to lose to Bret Hart at [[WrestleMania 13]] (since it was noted that he was going to have a rematch with Hart at WrestleMania).<ref name=stopper/> Michaels contemplated thoughts of retirement and stated that he "had to find his smile again," which he had "lost" somewhere down the line.<ref name=stopper/> After knee surgery by [[James Andrews (physician)|Dr. James Andrews]], Michaels returned a few months later, briefly teaming with [[Stone Cold |
On a special episode of ''Raw'' dubbed ''Thursday Raw Thursday'', Michaels vacated the WWF Championship;<ref name="HAT"/> he explained to fans that he was informed by doctors that he had conjured a knee injury, and that he had to retire.<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=239–240}}</ref> His speech was regarded as controversial, as Michaels was allegedly unwilling to lose to Bret Hart at [[WrestleMania 13]] (since it was noted that he was going to have a rematch with Hart at WrestleMania).<ref name=stopper/> Michaels contemplated thoughts of retirement and stated that he "had to find his smile again," which he had "lost" somewhere down the line.<ref name=stopper/> After knee surgery by [[James Andrews (physician)|Dr. James Andrews]], Michaels returned a few months later, briefly teaming with [[Stone Cold Steve Austin]] to win the WWF Tag Team Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/304454132122112|title=Stone Cold & Shawn Michaels first World Tag Team title reign|accessdate=2007-07-12|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> In his autobiography, Michaels reveals about his real-life feud with Bret Hart, claiming that Bret did interviews on live television claiming that he [Michaels] was faking his whole injury.<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=243–244}}</ref> |
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At [[SummerSlam (1997)|SummerSlam]], Michaels officiated the WWF Championship match between |
At [[SummerSlam (1997)|SummerSlam]], Michaels officiated the WWF Championship match between WWF Champion [[The Undertaker]] and Bret Hart.<ref name="takerSS">{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=247–249}}</ref> The match ended in controversial fashion, with Michaels hitting Undertaker with a chair (unintentionally, as he was aiming for Bret after he spat in his face).<ref name="takerSS"/> Michaels was then forced to award the championship to his nemesis, Bret Hart.<ref name="takerSS"/> At [[WWF One Night Only]], held in [[Birmingham|Birmingham, England]] in September, Michaels defeated The British Bulldog to capture the [[WWE European Championship|WWF European Championship]].<ref name="takerSS"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/euro/358418|title=HBK's first European title reign|accessdate=2007-07-11}}</ref> The fans at the event were so appalled at the result of the match they booed Michaels out of the building, to the extent that they littered the ring with rubbish.<ref name="takerSS"/><ref name=pwi99>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|pages=99–100}}</ref> With this win, Michaels became the first [[Grand Slam Championship|Grand Slam Champion]].<ref name="WWEProfile"/> During the [[SummerSlam (1997)|1997 SummerSlam]] event, a feud culminated between Michaels and The Undertaker, after Michaels struck The Undertaker with the usage of a [[folding chair|steel chair]]. At the October pay-per-view event, [[WWE Bad Blood#1997|In Your House: Badd Blood]], Michaels and Undertaker participated in the first [[Hell in a Cell]] match. During the match, it saw Michaels fall off the side of the {{convert|15|ft|m|0|sing=on}} high structure through a table and saw him as the winner in the match.<ref name="HIAC1">{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=257–259}}</ref> The match received a 5-star rating from Dave Meltzer. |
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In the summer, Michaels joined forces with real-life friend, Hunter Hearst Helmsley, Hunter's then-girlfriend, [[Chyna]], and [[Rick Rude]] to form the [[List of professional wrestling terms#S|stable]] |
In the summer, Michaels joined forces with real-life friend, Hunter Hearst Helmsley, Hunter's then-girlfriend, [[Chyna]], and [[Rick Rude]] to form the [[List of professional wrestling terms#S|stable]], [[D-Generation X]] (DX).<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=252}}</ref> Moving away from the family-oriented product, this marked the beginning of the [[History of professional wrestling#Monday Night Wars 1990s|WWF Attitude Era]].<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=255}}</ref> Michaels continued his rivalry with Bret Hart and his reformed [[The Hart Foundation#The (New) Hart Foundation|Hart Foundation]], which was now a pro-Canada stable. Michaels taunted the group and Canada by engaging in acts, such as blowing his nose with and humping the [[Flag of Canada|Canadian Flag]]. Michaels later claimed the flag desecration was Bret's idea.<ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=274–275}}</ref> Michaels' feud with the Hart Foundation culminated in a championship match at [[Survivor Series (1997)|Survivor Series]] in 1997 against Bret Hart. Michaels came out of this match, dubbed by fans the "[[Montreal Screwjob]]", as the WWF Champion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/wwechampionship/30445415|title=HBK's third WWE title reign|accessdate=2007-07-13|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Michaels now held both the WWF and European championship at the same time. Michaels, however, lost the European Championship to D-Generation X member, Hunter Hurst Hemsley, who often was referred to as Triple H (HHH), when he pinned him during a [[farce|farcical]] match, making Triple H the European Champion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/euro/|title=Title History: European|accessdate=2008-07-16|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> |
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====Retirement, commissioner and departure (1998–2000)==== |
====Retirement, commissioner and departure (1998–2000)==== |
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[[Image:Shawn-Michaels-on-RAW-08.jpg|thumb|left|125px|Michaels was the WWF Commissioner in 1998.]] |
[[Image:Shawn-Michaels-on-RAW-08.jpg|thumb|left|125px|Michaels was the WWF Commissioner in 1998.]] |
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At the [[Royal Rumble (1998)|1998 Royal Rumble]], Michaels received a legitimate back injury in a [[professional wrestling match types#Container-based variations|Casket match]] against The Undertaker |
At the [[Royal Rumble (1998)|1998 Royal Rumble]], Michaels received a legitimate back injury in a [[professional wrestling match types#Container-based variations|Casket match]] against The Undertaker.<ref name=stopper/> Michaels took a [[Professional wrestling throws#Back body drop|back body drop]] to the outside of the ring and smashed his lower back on the [[coffin|casket]], causing him to [[Spinal disc herniation|herniate two discs]] and crush one completely.<ref name=stopper/><ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=283}}</ref> This forced Michaels into retirement after losing the WWF Championship to Steve Austin at [[WrestleMania XIV]].<ref>{{Harv|Assael|Mooneyham|2002|p=202}}</ref> |
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Michaels returned to the WWF on November 23, 1998, but not as a wrestler; instead, he replaced [[Sgt. Slaughter]] as the [[Professional wrestling authority figures#Commissioners|WWF Commissioner]], a portrayed match maker and rules enforcer, joining Vince McMahon's group of wrestlers called the [[The Corporation (professional wrestling)|Corporation]] as a villain.<ref>{{cite episode|title=Raw is War|serieslink=WWE Raw|series=WWE Raw|network=[[USA Network]]|airdate=1998-11-23|season=6|number=47}}</ref> Throughout late 1998 and early 1999, Michaels made regular television appearances on ''Raw'', in which he scheduled matches, throwing around his authority, and sometimes even deciding the outcome of matches.<ref>{{cite episode|title=Raw is War|serieslink= |
Michaels returned to the WWF on November 23, 1998, but not as a wrestler; instead, he replaced [[Sgt. Slaughter]] as the [[Professional wrestling authority figures#Commissioners|WWF Commissioner]], a portrayed match maker and rules enforcer, joining Vince McMahon's group of wrestlers called the [[The Corporation (professional wrestling)|Corporation]] as a villain.<ref>{{cite episode|title=Raw is War|serieslink=WWE Raw|series=WWE Raw|network=[[USA Network]]|airdate=1998-11-23|season=6|number=47}}</ref> Throughout late 1998 and early 1999, Michaels made regular television appearances on ''Raw'', in which he scheduled matches, throwing around his authority, and sometimes even deciding the outcome of matches.<ref>{{cite episode|title=Raw is War|serieslink=WWE Raw|series=WWE Raw|network=[[USA Network]]|airdate=1998-11-30|season=6|number=48}}</ref><ref>{{cite episode|title=Raw is War|serieslink=WWE Raw|series=WWE Raw|network=[[USA Network]]|airdate=1998-12-21|season=6|number=51}}</ref><ref>{{cite episode|title= Raw is War|serieslink=WWE Raw|series=WWE Raw|network=[[USA Network]]|airdate=1998-12-28|season=6|number=52}}</ref> In early 1999, Michaels re-joined DX as a fan favorite, but disappeared from WWF television for a few months to have back surgery,<ref>{{cite web|author=Mr. X|title=Foley win Rocks WWF|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/SlamWrestlingArchive/jan9_fol.html|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|work=Slam! Sports|date=1999-01-09|accessdate=2008-07-17|quote=Michaels, who brought Degeneration X along with him, was later betrayed by his comrades, when he was locked out of the building and pounded by the corporate thugs. That allows Michaels to be absent for awhile and he'll have back surgery.}}</ref> and by the time he had returned, DX had broken up. |
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Michaels made occasional appearances on WWF television as the |
Michaels made occasional appearances on WWF television as the Commissioner during the spring and summer of 1999. Michaels was absent from WWF television until May 21, 2000 when he returned to officiate the Iron Man match between [[Dwayne Johnson|The Rock]] and Triple H.<ref>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|page=106}}</ref> One month later, Michaels briefly reappeared to hand over the role of Commissioner to [[Mick Foley]] and afterwards was absent from television for nearly a year.<ref>{{cite episode|title=Raw is War|serieslink=WWE Raw|series=WWE Raw|network=[[USA Network]]|airdate=2000-06-26|season=8|number=26}}</ref> During this time, believing that his wrestling career was over, Michaels was interested in training individuals who wanted to become professional wrestlers.<ref name="training academy">{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|pp=299–302}}</ref> He saw potential in using his name and opening the [[Texas Wrestling Academy|Shawn Michaels Wrestling Academy]], after his lawyer, Skip McCormick, suggested the idea.<ref name="training academy"/> Michaels eventually left the academy.<ref name="training academy"/> During this time, Michaels was a sportscaster for [[San Antonio]]'s local news for a short time during his retirement.<ref name="training academy"/> |
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===Return to WWE=== |
===Return to WWE=== |
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====Return to wrestling and various feuds (2002–2005)==== |
====Return to wrestling and various feuds (2002–2005)==== |
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In 2002, Michaels returned to wrestling and was brought into the [[New World Order (professional wrestling)|New World Order]] (nWo) by Kevin Nash as a new member of the group.<ref>{{cite book|first=Michael|last=McAvennie| |
In 2002, Michaels returned to wrestling and was brought into the [[New World Order (professional wrestling)|New World Order]] (nWo) by Kevin Nash as a new member of the group.<ref>{{cite book|first=Michael|last=McAvennie|title=WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition|publisher=[[WWE Books]]|year=2003|month=April|isbn=0-7434-6373-0|pages=140–141|quote=The Black and White seemed complete after Kevin Nash announced the New World Order's latest recruitment at the June 3 ''Raw:'' the king of WWE "Attitude," Shawn Michaels!}}</ref> After the nWo had disbanded, Triple H appeared to make amends with Michaels. This was solidified when Michaels pleaded Triple H to return to ''Raw''.<ref name="Raw - July 22"/> Later on, they came down to the ring sporting their DX music and attire. When the pair was about to perform their trademark "Suck It" taunt, Triple H turned on Michaels by performing a [[Facebuster#Double underhook facebuster|Pedigree]] on him.<ref name="Raw - July 22">{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/83.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - July 22, 2002|first=Adam|last=Martin|accessdate=2008-07-17|date=2002-07-22|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> Continuing the angle, a week later, Triple H attacked Michaels from behind in a parking lot and put his head through a car window, in storyline.<ref>{{cite web| first=Adam|last=Martin|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/84.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - July 29, 2002|accessdate= 2008-07-17|date=2002-07-29|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> In response, Michaels challenged Triple H to "a fight" (a non–sanctioned match) at [[SummerSlam (2002)|SummerSlam]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/85.shtml|title=Full WWE Raw Results - 8/05/02|last=Nemer|first=Paul|date=2002-08-05|publisher=WrestleView.com|accessdate=2008-09-15}}</ref> which Triple H accepted, laying the foundation for a rivalry that lasted for years. Michaels won at SummerSlam, but was attacked by Triple H with a [[sledgehammer]] after the match.<ref>{{cite book|first=Michael|last=McAvennie| title=WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition|publisher=[[WWE Books]]|year=2003|month=April|isbn=0-7434-6373-0|page=212}}</ref> At [[Survivor Series (2002)|Survivor Series]], Michaels won the [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE)|World Heavyweight Championship]] from Triple H in the first-ever [[Elimination Chamber]] match.<ref>{{cite book|first=Michael|last=McAvennie|title=WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition|publisher=[[WWE Books]]|year=2003|month=April|isbn=0-7434-6373-0|page=314}}</ref> Michaels' reign as champion came to an end when he lost the championship to Triple H in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Two out of three falls match|Three Stages of Hell match]], a series of three matches in which wrestlers attempt to win the majority of matches, at [[Armageddon (2002)|Armageddon]].<ref>{{cite book|first=Michael|last=McAvennie|title=WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition|publisher=[[WWE Books]]|year=2003|month=April|isbn=0-7434-6373-0|page=330}}</ref> |
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[[Image:Jerichomichaels.jpg|right|thumb|Michaels' match with Chris Jericho at WrestleMania XIX in March 2003 was his first match at a WrestleMania since his back surgery in 1998.]] |
[[Image:Jerichomichaels.jpg|right|thumb|Michaels' match with Chris Jericho at WrestleMania XIX in March 2003 was his first match at a WrestleMania since his back surgery in 1998.]] |
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Michaels then began a rivalry with [[Chris Jericho]], after Jericho claimed that he was the next Shawn Michaels.<ref>{{cite web| |
Michaels then began a rivalry with [[Chris Jericho]], after Jericho claimed that he was the next Shawn Michaels.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/news/1048567703.shtml|title=Full WWE Raw Results - 3/24/03|last=Moore|first=Wesley|date=2003-03-24| publisher=WrestleView.com|accessdate=2008-09-15}}</ref> On January 13, 2003, after Jericho won a [[Battle royal (professional wrestling)|battle royal]] to select his entry number for the [[Royal Rumble (2003)|Royal Rumble]], choosing number two in order to start the match with Michaels,<ref>{{cite web|first=Michael|last=Barrett|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/news/1042517288.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - January 13, 2003|accessdate=2008-07-17|date=2003-01-13|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> who had already been named number one. At the Royal Rumble, Jericho, with the help of [[Jason Reso|Christian]], eliminated Michaels.<ref>{{cite news|last= Hurley|first=Oliver|title=Power Slam Magazine, issue 104|work=Every Man for himself (Royal Rumble 2003)|publisher=SW Publishing| date=2003-02-21|pages=16–19}}</ref> Michaels defeated Jericho at [[WrestleMania XIX]].<ref name="WM19"/> After the match, Michaels offered his hand to Jericho, who instead of shaking it, hugged Michaels. At first it seemed like good sportsmanship by Jericho until he quickly kicked Michaels in the groin.<ref name="WM19">{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2003/03/31/55003.html|title=WWE shines at WrestleMania XIX|first=John|last=Powell|accessdate=2008-06-13|date=2003-03-31|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|work=Slam! Sports}}</ref> |
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As a part of an ongoing feud with Triple H, the two competed alongside [[Chris Benoit]] in the main event match at [[WrestleMania XX]] for the World Heavyweight Championship. The former DX partners both came up short in the match, however, as Benoit |
As a part of an ongoing feud with Triple H, the two competed alongside [[Chris Benoit]] in the main event match at [[WrestleMania XX]] for the World Heavyweight Championship. The former DX partners both came up short in the match, however, as Benoit won the championship.<ref name=pwi115>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Dacts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|page=115}}</ref> At [[Bad Blood (2004)|Bad Blood]] in June, Michaels lost to Triple H in a Hell in a Cell match.<ref name=pwi115/> Four months later, he lost a World Heavyweight championship match against Triple H, after [[Adam Copeland|Edge]] interfered at [[Taboo Tuesday (2004)|Taboo Tuesday]], when the fans voted for him ahead of Edge and Chris Benoit to face Triple H one more time.<ref>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|page=116}}</ref> Following this, Michaels was out of action for a few months with a [[List of professional wrestling terms#L|legitimate]] torn [[Meniscus (anatomy)|meniscus]].<ref name="WWEProfile"/><ref>{{Harv|Michaels|Feigenbaum|2005|p=333}}</ref> |
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At the [[Royal Rumble (2005)|Royal Rumble]] in 2005, Michaels competed in the Rumble match and eliminated [[Kurt Angle]]. In seeking revenge, Angle re-entered the ring and eliminated Michaels, and thus placed him in an [[Professional wrestling holds#Ankle lock|ankle lock]] submission hold, outside of the ring.<ref name=RR2005>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|page=117}}</ref> Michaels issued a challenge to Angle for a match at [[WrestleMania 21]], which Angle accepted when he appeared on ''Raw'' to attack Michaels.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2005/1109657210.shtml|title=Dream match made|accessdate=2008-07-17|date=2005-02-28|work= WrestleView.com|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> The following week on ''Raw'', Marty Jannetty and Michaels had a one time reunion as The Rockers and defeated [[La Résistance (professional wrestling)|La Résistance]] ([[Rob Conway|Robért Conway]] and [[Sylvain Grenier]]).<ref>{{cite web|first=Hunter|last=Golden|url= http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2005/1110863071.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - March 14, 2005|accessdate=2008-07-17|date= |
At the [[Royal Rumble (2005)|Royal Rumble]] in 2005, Michaels competed in the Rumble match and eliminated [[Kurt Angle]]. In seeking revenge, Angle re-entered the ring and eliminated Michaels, and thus placed him in an [[Professional wrestling holds#Ankle lock|ankle lock]] submission hold, outside of the ring.<ref name=RR2005>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|page=117}}</ref> Michaels issued a challenge to Angle for a match at [[WrestleMania 21]], which Angle accepted when he appeared on ''Raw'' to attack Michaels.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2005/1109657210.shtml|title=Dream match made|accessdate=2008-07-17|date=2005-02-28|work= WrestleView.com|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> The following week on ''Raw'', Marty Jannetty and Michaels had a one time reunion as The Rockers and defeated [[La Résistance (professional wrestling)|La Résistance]] ([[Rob Conway|Robért Conway]] and [[Sylvain Grenier]]).<ref>{{cite web|first=Hunter|last=Golden|url= http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2005/1110863071.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - March 14, 2005|accessdate=2008-07-17|date=2005-03-14|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> Three days later on ''[[WWE SmackDown|SmackDown!]]'', Angle defeated Jannetty, after Angle made Jannetty submit to the ankle lock.<ref>{{cite web|first=L. Anne|last=Carrington|url= http://www.wrestleview.com/results/smackdown/smackdown2005/1111123561.shtml|title=WWE SmackDown Results - March 17, 2005|accessdate =2008-07-17|date=2005-03-17|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> To send a "message" to Michaels, Angle also humiliated Michaels' former manager, Sensational Sherri, when he applied the ankle lock hold on her.<ref>{{cite web|first=L. Anne|last=Carrington|url= http://www.wrestleview.com/results/smackdown/smackdown2005/1111728681.shtml|title=WWE SmackDown Results - March 24, 2005|accessdate =2008-07-17|date=2005-03-24|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> At WrestleMania 21, Angle defeated Michaels by submission, again with an ankle lock.<ref name=RR2005/> |
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[[Image:Shawn-Michaels-signature-pose.jpg|thumb|left|225px|Michaels performing his signature pose.]] |
[[Image:Shawn-Michaels-signature-pose.jpg|thumb|left|225px|Michaels performing his signature pose.]] |
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The next night on ''Raw'', [[Mark Copani|Muhammad Hassan]] and [[Shawn Daivari|Daivari]] came out to confront and assault Michaels.<ref>{{cite web|first=Paul|last=Nemer|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2005/1112670613.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - April 4, 2005|accessdate=2008-07-17|date=2005-04-04|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> On the April 11 episode of ''Raw'', Michaels approached [[Professional wrestling authority figures#Raw brand authorities|authority figure]] [[Eric Bischoff]], in which he demanded a [[Professional wrestling match types#Handicap match|handicap match]] with Hassan and Daivari, a match consisting of one wrestler or team of wrestlers facing off against a team of wrestlers with numerical superiority such as two against one, or three against two. Bischoff refused to schedule the match, but informed Michaels to find a partner and he would grant him the match. Michaels then made a plea for [[Hulk Hogan]] to come back and team with him.<ref>{{cite web|first=Hunter|last=Golden|url= http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2005/1113279748.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - April 11, 2005|accessdate=2008-07-17|date= |
The next night on ''Raw'', [[Mark Copani|Muhammad Hassan]] and [[Shawn Daivari|Daivari]] came out to confront and assault Michaels.<ref>{{cite web|first=Paul|last=Nemer|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2005/1112670613.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - April 4, 2005|accessdate=2008-07-17|date=2005-04-04|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> On the April 11 episode of ''Raw'', Michaels approached [[Professional wrestling authority figures#Raw brand authorities|authority figure]] [[Eric Bischoff]], in which he demanded a [[Professional wrestling match types#Handicap match|handicap match]] with Hassan and Daivari, a match consisting of one wrestler or team of wrestlers facing off against a team of wrestlers with numerical superiority such as two against one, or three against two. Bischoff refused to schedule the match, but informed Michaels to find a partner and he would grant him the match. Michaels then made a plea for [[Hulk Hogan]] to come back and team with him.<ref>{{cite web|first=Hunter|last=Golden|url= http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2005/1113279748.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - April 11, 2005|accessdate=2008-07-17|date=2005-04-11|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> On the April 18 episode of ''Raw'', Hassan again led an attack on Michaels until Hogan appeared to save Michaels and accept his offer.<ref>{{cite web|first=Hunter|last=Golden|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2005/1113883992.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - April 18, 2005|accessdate=2008-07-17|date=2005-04-18|publisher= WrestleView.com}}</ref> At [[Backlash (2005)|Backlash]], Hassan and Daivari lost to Hogan and Michaels when Daivari was pinned.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/history/backlash2005/results/|title=WWE Backlash 2005 results|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-07-16}}</ref> On the July 4 episode of ''Raw'', Michaels and Hulk Hogan had a tag team match, which they won.<ref name="july4" /> During the post-match pose, Michaels hit Hogan with his superkick, knocking Hogan to the ground and making Michaels a villain for the first time since returning in 2002.<ref name="july4">{{cite web|first=Hunter| last=Golden|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2005/1120520901.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - July 4, 2005|accessdate=2008-07-17|date=2005-07-04|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> The following week on ''Raw'', Michaels appeared on ''[[Piper's Pit]]'' where he superkicked [[Roddy Piper]] and then challenged Hogan to a match at [[SummerSlam (2005)|SummerSlam]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2005/1121140355.shtml|title=Raw Results - July 11, 2005|last=Golden|first=Hunter|date=2005-07-11|publisher=WrestleView.com|accessdate=2008-08-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Hunter|last=Golden|url= http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2005/1121745844.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - July 18, 2005|accessdate=2008-07-17|date= 2005-07-18|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> Hogan defeated Michaels at SummerSlam, and after the match Michaels extended his hand to him, saying "I needed to know, and I found out" and he and Hogan shook hands. Michaels left the ring to allow Hogan to celebrate with the crowd, and Michaels once again became a fan favorite.<ref>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|page=118}}</ref> |
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====Feuding with McMahon; reforming DX (2006–2007)==== |
====Feuding with McMahon; reforming DX (2006–2007)==== |
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{{See also|D-Generation X#Shawn Michaels and Triple H (2006–present)|l1=D-Generation X reunion}} |
{{See also|D-Generation X#Shawn Michaels and Triple H (2006–present)|l1=D-Generation X reunion}} |
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On the December 26, 2005 episode of ''Raw'', Vince McMahon lauded Michaels for his part in the Montreal Screwjob. Michaels said he was only being loyal to his company, he had moved on, and McMahon should move on as well. McMahon then began setting unusual stipulations for Michaels' matches and interfering on behalf of Michaels' opponents.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/01022006/|title=The Chamber awaits|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2006-01-02|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> During the [[Royal Rumble (2006)|Royal Rumble]], McMahon made his way to the ring, and as Michaels stared at McMahon, [[Shane McMahon]] made a surprising appearance, eliminating Michaels from the match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2006/01/30/1418142.html|title=Mysterio claims Rumble; Cena reigns again|last=Plummer|first=Dale| |
On the December 26, 2005 episode of ''Raw'', Vince McMahon lauded Michaels for his part in the "Montreal Screwjob". Michaels said he was only being loyal to his company, he had moved on, and McMahon should move on as well. McMahon then began setting unusual stipulations for Michaels' matches and interfering on behalf of Michaels' opponents.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/01022006/|title=The Chamber awaits|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2006-01-02|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> During the [[Royal Rumble (2006)|Royal Rumble]], McMahon made his way to the ring, and as Michaels stared at McMahon, [[Shane McMahon]] made a surprising appearance, eliminating Michaels from the match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2006/01/30/1418142.html|title=Mysterio claims Rumble; Cena reigns again|last=Plummer|first=Dale|coauthors=Nick Tylwalk|date=2006-01-30|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|accessdate=2008-08-06}}</ref> On the February 13 episode of ''Raw'', McMahon tried unsuccessfully to force Michaels to sign retirement papers.<ref name="WM22"/> The following week, Michaels won a handicap match against the [[Spirit Squad]] ([[Kenny Dykstra|Kenny]], [[Johnny Jeter|Johnny]], [[Nick Mitchell|Mitch]], [[Nick Nemeth|Nicky]] and [[Michael Brendli|Mikey]]) and after the match, Michaels' former partner, Marty Jannetty, came down to help Michaels from the assault by the Spirit Squad. After the two reunited, McMahon offered Jannetty a contract if he "kissed his ass."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/02202006/|title="Big Time" Pedigree|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2006-02-20|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> The following week, Jannetty refused McMahon's offer and instead took [[Chris Mordetzky|Chris Masters]]' "[[WWE Raw#Recurring segments|Masterlock challenge]]."<ref name="February 27">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/02272006/|title=Joining the Club|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2006-02-27|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Michaels tried to help Jannetty, which ultimately resulted in Shane attacking Michaels and forcing him to kiss his father's ass.<ref name="February 27"/> At ''[[Saturday Night's Main Event results#Saturday Night's Main Event XXXII|Saturday Night's Main Event]]'', Shane defeated Michaels in a [[professional wrestling match types#Hardcore-based variations|Street Fight]], a match without disqualifications and where scoring conditions can occur anywhere, after he applied a sharpshooter on Michaels, which led to McMahon immediately ordering for the bell to be rung, even though Michaels did not submit, which was an allusion to the "Montreal Screwjob".<ref>{{cite news|title=Power Slam Magazine, issue 142|work=Looking at WWE: SNMW (March 18, 2006)|publisher=SW Publishing|date=2006-04-20|page=25}}</ref> Despite interference from the Spirit Squad and Shane, Michaels defeated McMahon at [[WrestleMania 22]] in a [[professional wrestling match types#No Disqualification match|No Holds Barred match]], a match where there are no disqualifications.<ref name="WM22">{{cite video|date=2006|title=WrestleMania 22|medium=DVD|publisher=[[WWE Home Video]]}}</ref> At [[Backlash (2006)|Backlash]], [[Team McMahon|The McMahons]] (Vince and Shane) defeated Michaels and "[[God in Christianity|God]]" in a tag team match, with help from the Spirit Squad in a no disqualification match.<ref>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|page=121}}</ref> On the May 22 episode of ''Raw'', the Squad was scripted to injure Michaels' knee.<ref>{{cite web|first=Louie|last=Dee|date=2006-05-22|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/05222006/|title=Apology Accepted?|accessdate=2008-07-16|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> This was angle was written so that Michaels could have surgery on his knee, which had been legitimately injured for some time.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Injuries shelve Benoit, HBK|accessdate=2009-08-09|date=2006-05-28|work=[[Chicago Sun-Times]]|page=A70}}</ref> |
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[[Image:D-Generation X.jpg|thumb|220px|right|Triple H and Michaels as DX on an episode of ''[[WWE Raw|Raw]]''.]] |
[[Image:D-Generation X.jpg|thumb|220px|right|Triple H and Michaels as DX on an episode of ''[[WWE Raw|Raw]]''.]] |
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In 2006, a series of events took place which suggested a reunion of Michaels and Triple H as DX. They began at WrestleMania 22, where both Michaels and Triple H performed the crotch chop, during their matches.<ref name="WM22"/> On ''Raw'', the two continued to deliver chops, as Michaels feuded with Vince McMahon and Triple H went for the [[WWE Championship]], repeatedly butting heads with Vince McMahon in the process. On the June 12 episode of ''Raw'', DX officially reunited.<ref name="June12"/> During Triple H's [[Professional wrestling match types#Gauntlet match|gauntlet match]], which had him compete against the Spirit Squad |
In 2006, a series of events took place which suggested a reunion of Michaels and Triple H as DX. They began at WrestleMania 22, where both Michaels and Triple H performed the crotch chop, during their matches.<ref name="WM22"/> On ''Raw'', the two continued to deliver chops, as Michaels feuded with Vince McMahon and Triple H went for the [[WWE Championship]], repeatedly butting heads with Vince McMahon in the process. On the June 12 episode of ''Raw'', DX officially reunited.<ref name="June12"/> During Triple H's [[Professional wrestling match types#Gauntlet match|gauntlet match]], which had him compete against the Spirit Squad. Michaels came in to help Triple H, and the two did the DX "crotch chops."<ref name="June12">{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2006/1150169113.shtml|title=Raw Results - 6/12/06 - Penn State University (DX returns & more)|last=Golden|first=Hunter|date=2006-06-12|publisher=WrestleView.com|accessdate=2008-08-06}}</ref> At [[Vengeance (2006)|Vengeance]], DX defeated the Spirit Squad in a 5–on–2 [[professional wrestling match types#Handicap match|handicap match]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2006/06/21/1646013.html|title=DX returns with a Vengeance|first=Dale|last=Plummer|coauthors=Tylwalk, Nick|accessdate=2008-07-16|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|work=Slam! Sports}}</ref> They also defeated the Spirit Squad at ''[[Saturday Night's Main Event results#Saturday Night's Main Event XXXIII|Saturday Night's Main Event]]'' in a 5-on-2 elimination match and defeated The McMahons at [[SummerSlam (2006)|SummerSlam]].<ref>{{cite web|title=DX beats the odds|first=Jen|last=Hunt|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/history/2006/matches/29444901/results/|accessdate=2008-07-13|date=2006-08-20|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> At [[Unforgiven (2006)|Unforgiven]], DX once again defeated the McMahons and [[ECW Championship|ECW World Champion]] [[Paul Wight|The Big Show]] in a Hell in a Cell match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2006/09/18/1857195.html|title=Unforgiven just averages out|last=Elliott|first=Brian|date=2006-09-18|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|accessdate=2008-08-06}}</ref> |
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At [[Cyber Sunday (2006)|Cyber Sunday]], DX took on [[Rated-RKO]] (Edge and [[Randy Orton]]). The fan-selected referee Eric Bischoff allowed the illegal use of a |
At [[Cyber Sunday (2006)|Cyber Sunday]], DX took on [[Rated-RKO]] (Edge and [[Randy Orton]]). The fan-selected referee Eric Bischoff allowed the illegal use of a steel chair to give Rated-RKO the ill-gotten win and the plaudit of being the first tag team to defeat DX in a tag team match since their reformation in June 2006.<ref>{{cite news|title=2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts|work=Wrestling’s Historical Cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|page=122}}</ref> At [[Survivor Series (2006)|Survivor Series]], however, Team DX emerged victorious against Team Rated-RKO.<ref>{{cite web|first=Adam|last=Martin|title=Survivor Series Results|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/news2006/1164599352.shtml|publisher=WrestleView.com|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2006-11-26}}</ref> At [[New Year's Revolution (2007)|New Year's Revolution]], Triple H suffered a [[List of professional wrestling terms#L|legitimate]] torn right [[quadriceps femoris muscle|quadriceps]] during their match with Rated-RKO.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/newyearsrevolution/exclusives/triplehinjury|title=Triple H tears quadriceps tendon|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2007-01-08|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Rated-RKO claimed victory over DX, citing Triple H's injury, as the "end" of DX.<ref>{{cite web|first=Noah|last=Starr|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/01082007/|title=Umaga spikes back|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2007-01-08|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> On January 15, Michaels lived up to his word of "dealing" with Rated-RKO, from his comments the previous week before,<ref>{{cite web|last=Golden|first=Hunter|date=2007-01-08|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2006/1168318587.shtml|title=Raw Results - 1/8/07 - St. Louis, MO - (Fallout from ''NY Revolution'')|accessdate=2008-09-21|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/01082007/|title=Umaga spikes back|date=2007-01-08|last=Starr|first=Noah|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-09-21}}</ref> when he took out Randy Orton with a [[Professional wrestling attacks#One man con-chair-to|con-chair-to]] after a handicap match against Edge and Orton.<ref>{{cite web|first=Noah|last=Starr|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/01152007/|title=DX lives|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2007-01-15|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> |
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====Various feuds (2007–2009)==== |
====Various feuds (2007–2009)==== |
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[[Image:Michaels-Cena.jpg|thumb|left|Michaels confronting [[John Cena]] on an episode of ''Raw'']] |
[[Image:Michaels-Cena.jpg|thumb|left|Michaels confronting [[John Cena]] on an episode of ''Raw'']] |
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On the January 29 episode of ''Raw'', Michaels captured the [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE)|World Tag Team Championship]] with |
On the January 29 episode of ''Raw'', Michaels captured the [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE)|World Tag Team Championship]] with WWE Champion [[John Cena]] after defeating Rated-RKO.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/4065380|title=John Cena & Shawn Michaels first World Tag Team title reign|accessdate=2007-07-12|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> He then defeated both Edge and Orton in a Triple Threat number one contender's match on another episode of ''Raw'' to earn a shot at the WWE Championship.<ref>{{cite news|title=Pro Wrestling Illustrated, May 2007|work=Arena Reports|publisher=Kappa Publishing|year=2007|month=May|page=130}}</ref> At [[WrestleMania 23]], Cena retained the championship, after he made Michaels submit to the [[Professional wrestling holds#STS|STFU]].<ref>{{cite web|first=Louie|last=Dee|title=Detroit, Champ City|date=2007-04-01|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/wrestlemania23/matches/39161841/results/|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-07-16}}</ref> The next night on ''Raw'', Michaels and Cena competed in two back-to-back ten team battle royals, winning the first and losing the titles in the second to [[Hardy Boyz|The Hardys]] ([[Matt Hardy|Matt]] and [[Jeff Hardy|Jeff]]) when Michaels threw Cena over the top rope.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/04022007/|title=HBK dumps Cena|first=Noah|last=Starr|accessdate=2007-04-05|date=2007-04-02|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Michaels' feud with Cena continued and he faced off with Cena, Edge and Randy Orton in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Basic non-elimination matches|Fatal Four-Way Match]] at [[Backlash (2007)|Backlash]] for the WWE Championship. Cena retained the championship when Michaels performed Sweet Chin Music on Cena causing him to fall on Orton, which gained Cena the pinfall.<ref>{{cite web|first=Brian|last=Elliott|date=2007-04-29|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/04/29/4140920.html|title=No filler makes for a consistent Backlash|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|work=Slam! Sports|accessdate=2008-07-16}}</ref> |
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Michaels then entered a feud with Randy Orton when Orton claimed that he could beat Michaels.<ref name="May 14">{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2006/1179200969.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - May 14, 2007|accessdate=2008-07-17|date=2007-05-14|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> The week before their scheduled match at [[Judgment Day (2007)|Judgment Day]], after Michaels won a match against Edge, Orton interfered, [[Professional wrestling attacks#Punt|punting]] Michaels in the head.<ref name="May 14"/> Orton assaulted Michaels again, just prior to their match at Judgment Day, interrupting Michaels' interview segment.<ref name="JD">{{cite web|first=Louie|last=Dee|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/judgmentday/history/2007/exclusives/hbkconcussions|title=Is it over for HBK?|accessdate=2007-05-25|date=2007-05-21|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Michaels collapsed during the course of their match, causing Orton to win by referee stoppage.<ref name="JD"/> Afterwards, Orton continued the beating, when he performed an |
Michaels then entered a feud with Randy Orton when Orton claimed that he could beat Michaels.<ref name="May 14">{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2006/1179200969.shtml|title=WWE Raw Results - May 14, 2007|accessdate=2008-07-17|date=2007-05-14|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> The week before their scheduled match at [[Judgment Day (2007)|Judgment Day]], after Michaels won a match against Edge, Orton interfered, [[Professional wrestling attacks#Punt|punting]] Michaels in the head.<ref name="May 14"/> Orton assaulted Michaels again, just prior to their match at Judgment Day, interrupting Michaels' interview segment.<ref name="JD">{{cite web|first=Louie|last=Dee|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/judgmentday/history/2007/exclusives/hbkconcussions|title=Is it over for HBK?|accessdate=2007-05-25|date=2007-05-21|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Michaels collapsed during the course of their match, causing Orton to win by referee stoppage.<ref name="JD"/> Afterwards, Orton continued the beating, when he performed an [[Cutter (professional wrestling)|RKO]] to a fallen Michaels. Michaels was then removed out of the ring in a stretcher.<ref name="JD"/> During the feud, Michaels conjured a storyline concussion. This injury was used to keep Michaels out of action, as he required surgery for his knee.<ref>{{cite journal|first=John|last=Mihaly|title=The Showstopper Must Go On|journal=[[WWE Magazine]]|year=2008|month=February|pages=18–20}}</ref> Michaels made his return on the October 8 episode of ''Raw'', performing a superkick to newly-crowned WWE Champion, Randy Orton, during his title ceremony at the end of the show and then celebrating over the knocked-out champion as Vince McMahon watched.<ref>{{cite web|first=Bryan|last= Robinson|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/10082007/articles/hbkreturns|title=HBK shows Orton his 'appreciation'|accessdate=2007-10-09| date=2007-10-08|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> At [[Cyber Sunday (2007)|Cyber Sunday]], Michaels was voted by the fans to face Orton for the WWE Championship; though he won via disqualification when Orton hit Michaels with a [[Groin attack|low blow]], which resulted in Orton retaining the championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/cybersunday/history/2007/matches/52676102/results/|title=Sweet Chin Grand Slam|first=Bryan|last=Robinson|date=2007-10-28|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-07-16}}</ref> Michaels got another opportunity at the WWE Championship, when he was granted his rematch against Orton at [[Survivor Series (2007)|Survivor Series]].<ref name=ss07>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/11/18/4666920.html|title=Survivor Series ends with an Edge|accessdate=2008-01-29|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|work=Slam! Sports|date=2007-11-19|first=Dale|last=Plummer|coauthor=Tylwalk, Nick}}</ref> In their match, Michaels was banned from using Sweet Chin Music upon request by Orton, referring to as Michaels superkicking Orton week after week.<ref>{{cite web|first=Bryan|last=Robinson|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/history/2007/exclusives/hbkhandcuffed|title=The music is silenced|accessdate=2008-02-07|date=2007-11-07|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Michaels lost the match, when Orton performed an RKO for the win.<ref name=ss07/> |
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[[Image:Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XXIV.jpg|right|thumb|Michaels interacting with the fans at [[WrestleMania XXIV]] before his match with [[Ric Flair]].]] |
[[Image:Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XXIV.jpg|right|thumb|Michaels interacting with the fans at [[WrestleMania XXIV]] before his match with [[Ric Flair]].]] |
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As part of the storyline involving Ric Flair, Michaels faced Flair in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Retirement match|Career Threatening match]] at [[WrestleMania XXIV]], in which he won by performing Sweet Chin Music and thus ending Flair's career.<ref>{{cite web|first=Bryan|last=Robinson|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/2008/matches/6464438/results/|title=The End|accessdate=2008-03-31|date=2008-03-30|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Afterwards, [[Dave Batista|Batista]] confronted Michaels about his actions at WrestleMania, calling him selfish and egotistical.<ref>{{cite web|first= Mitch|last=Passero|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/04042008/|title=Mixed Emotions|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2008-04-04|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> The two faced off at [[Backlash (2008)|Backlash]] with Chris Jericho as the [[Professional wrestling match types#Special referee|guest referee]]. Michaels won after faking a knee injury and performing Sweet Chin Music.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/news2008/1209351283.shtml|title=Backlash PPV Results - 4/27 - Baltimore, MD ('New WWE Champion')|last=Martin|first=Adam|date=2008-04-27|publisher=WrestleView.com|accessdate=2008-08-06}}</ref> Jericho then confronted Michaels on this matter, in which Michaels admitted to faking the injury in order to defeat Batista.<ref>{{cite web|first=Andrew|last=Rote|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/05122008/|title=No time wasted|accessdate= |
As part of the storyline involving Ric Flair, Michaels faced Flair in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Retirement match|Career Threatening match]] at [[WrestleMania XXIV]], in which he won by performing Sweet Chin Music and thus ending Flair's career.<ref>{{cite web|first=Bryan|last=Robinson|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/2008/matches/6464438/results/|title=The End|accessdate=2008-03-31|date=2008-03-30|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Afterwards, [[Dave Batista|Batista]] confronted Michaels about his actions at WrestleMania, calling him selfish and egotistical.<ref>{{cite web|first= Mitch|last=Passero|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/04042008/|title=Mixed Emotions|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2008-04-04|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> The two faced off at [[Backlash (2008)|Backlash]] with Chris Jericho as the [[Professional wrestling match types#Special referee|guest referee]]. Michaels won after faking a knee injury and performing Sweet Chin Music.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/news2008/1209351283.shtml|title=Backlash PPV Results - 4/27 - Baltimore, MD ('New WWE Champion')|last=Martin|first=Adam|date=2008-04-27|publisher=WrestleView.com|accessdate=2008-08-06}}</ref> Jericho then confronted Michaels on this matter, in which Michaels admitted to faking the injury in order to defeat Batista.<ref>{{cite web|first=Andrew|last=Rote|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/05122008/|title=No time wasted|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2008-05-12|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Michaels then defeated Jericho at [[Judgment Day (2008)|Judgment Day]].<ref>{{cite web|first=Bob|last=Kapur|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2008/05/18/5609326.html|title=Judgment Day spoils streak of good shows|accessdate=2008-06-16|date=2008-05-18|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|work=Slam! Sports}}</ref> At [[One Night Stand (2008)|One Night Stand]], Michaels lost to Batista in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Container-based variations|stretcher match]], thus ending their feud.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/onenightstand/matches/7117260/results/|accessdate=2008-07-16|title=Promise kept|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|date=2008-06-01}}</ref> On the June 9 episode of ''Raw'', Michaels was attacked by Chris Jericho during his talk show segment, ''[[WWE Raw#Recurring segments|The Highlight Reel]]'', being thrown directly through a television screen.<ref>{{cite web|first=Aubrey|last=Sitterson|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/06092008/|title=Cash and Burn|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2008-06-09|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> The following week, it was revealed that, within the context of the storyline, Michaels had suffered a detached retina.<ref name="eye">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/08042008/articles/michaelsinjuryupdate|title=Truth revealed: Michaels' double injury|accessdate=2008-08-12|date=2008-08-04|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> At [[The Great American Bash (2008)|The Great American Bash]], a match between Michaels and Jericho was scheduled, in which Jericho assaulted Michaels' eye, which caused Jericho to win by referee stoppage.<ref name="eye"/> A month later at [[SummerSlam (2008)|SummerSlam]], Michaels was scripted to announce his retirement from professional wrestling, though the staged rivalry between Jericho and himself continued after Jericho punched Michaels' wife in the face.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2008/08/17/6484406.html|title=SummerSlam comes close to 'blockbuster' status|last=Plummer|first=Dale|coauthors=Nick Tylwalk|date=2008-08-17|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|accessdate=2009-07-28}}</ref> On the August 25 episode of ''Raw'', Michaels denounced his decision to retire and challenged Jericho to an unsanctioned match at [[Unforgiven (2008)|Unforgiven]], which Jericho accepted.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/08252008/|title=Championship Scramble scrambled|last=Sitterson|first=Aubrey|date=2008-08-25|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-09-11}}</ref> The following week, Michaels and Jericho held a scripted official contract signing for the unsanctioned match. During the contract signing, a confrontation with Jericho occurred.<ref name="triceps"/> A predicament ensued when Michaels suffered a small tear on his [[Triceps brachii muscle|left triceps]],<ref name="triceps">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/09012008/articles/shawnmichaelsinjurestricep|title=Triceps injury won't stop HBK from going to Unforgiven|date=2008-09-02|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-09-15}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/sports/wrestling/blog/2008/09/|title=Unforgiven thoughts|last=Eck|first=Kevin|date=2008-09-08|work=[[The Baltimore Sun]]|accessdate=2008-09-15}}</ref> though Michaels was medically cleared to compete in the match.<ref name="triceps"/> At Unforgiven, Michaels defeated Jericho, after the referee stopped the match, due to the severity of the beating Michaels was giving Jericho.<ref name="scramble">{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2008/09/08/6698911.html|title=Scramble matches make for wild Unforgiven|last=Bishop|first=Matt|date=2008-09-08|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|accessdate=2008-09-15}}</ref> It was at the same September event that Jericho replaced [[CM Punk]] in the [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE)|World Heavyweight Championship]] scramble match, which saw him win the match and become World Heavyweight Champion.<ref name="scramble"/> The following month at [[No Mercy (2008)|No Mercy]], Michaels met Jericho in a ladder match in which Jericho defended the championship against Michaels.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/results/raw/raw2008/1221538363.shtml|title=Raw Results - 9/15/08 - Memphis, TN (Jericho vs. Punk & 'No Mercy')|last=Golden|first=Hunter|date=2008-09-15|publisher=WrestleView|accessdate=2009-03-24}}</ref> At the event, Jericho defeated Michaels to retain the title.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/matches/8091418/results/|title=Crook and ladder|last=Tello|first=Craig|date=2008-10-05|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2009-03-24}}</ref> |
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In December 2008, Michaels accepted an offer to become an employee of [[John Layfield|John "Bradshaw" Layfield]] (JBL). The storyline was that Michaels had lost his family's personal savings due to the global recession, forcing him to accept JBL's offer of employment.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2008/12/14/7749336.html|title=Armageddon: Hardy finally breaks through|last=Bishop|first=Matt|date=2008-12-14|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|accessdate= 2009-03-12}}</ref> After failing to secure JBL the World Heavyweight Championship against John Cena at the [[Royal Rumble (2009)|Royal Rumble]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/history/2009/matches/9029646/results/|title=Beating the odds|date=2009-01-25|last=Sitterson|first=Aubrey|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2009-03-12}}</ref> Michaels agreed to take part in an "All or Nothing" match at [[No Way Out (2009)|No Way Out]] in February.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/02022009/|title=Missouri loves company|last=Adkins|first=Greg|date=2009-02-02|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2009-03-12}}</ref> Michaels won the match, letting Michaels out of his one-year contract with JBL immediately while still receiving full payment.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/matches/8281270/results/|title=Sweet Chin Music to our ears|last=Vermillion|first= |
In December 2008, Michaels accepted an offer to become an employee of [[John Layfield|John "Bradshaw" Layfield]] (JBL). The storyline was that Michaels had lost his family's personal savings due to the global recession, forcing him to accept JBL's offer of employment.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2008/12/14/7749336.html|title=Armageddon: Hardy finally breaks through|last=Bishop|first=Matt|date=2008-12-14|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|accessdate= 2009-03-12}}</ref> After failing to secure JBL the World Heavyweight Championship against John Cena at the [[Royal Rumble (2009)|Royal Rumble]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/history/2009/matches/9029646/results/|title=Beating the odds|date=2009-01-25|last=Sitterson|first=Aubrey|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2009-03-12}}</ref> Michaels agreed to take part in an "All or Nothing" match at [[No Way Out (2009)|No Way Out]] in February.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/02022009/|title=Missouri loves company|last=Adkins|first=Greg|date=2009-02-02|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2009-03-12}}</ref> Michaels won the match, letting Michaels out of his one-year contract with JBL immediately while still receiving full payment.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/matches/8281270/results/|title=Sweet Chin Music to our ears|last=Vermillion|first=James|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2009-03-12}}</ref> Michaels became the first person to successfully defeat [[Oleg Prudius|Vladimir Kozlov]] on the March 2 episode of ''Raw'', and as a result earned the right to face The Undertaker at [[WrestleMania XXV]] in April.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/03022009/|title=Breaking the news|last=Sitterson|first=Aubrey|date=2009-03-02|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|accessdate=2009-03-03}}</ref> At the event, The Undertaker defeated Michaels to extend his WrestleMania winning streak to 17-0.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/04/06/9019551.html|title=WrestleMania 25: HBK steals the show|last=Plummer|first=Dave|date=2009-04-06|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|accessdate=2009-04-06}}</ref> After WrestleMania, Michaels took a hiatus from WWE. |
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====Return of D-Generation-X (2009–present)==== |
====Return of D-Generation-X (2009–present)==== |
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Michaels returned to WWE programming in a series of segments that aired on the August 10, 2009 episode of ''Raw'', where he had [[Kayfabe|scripted]] left the WWE. Triple H met with Michaels at an office cafeteria in Texas where he was working as a chef; throughout the segments, Triple H would try to convince Michaels to return to WWE and reform DX. After several incidents during the segments, Michaels agreed to team with Triple H to face [[The Legacy (professional wrestling)|The Legacy]] ([[Cody Rhodes]] and [[Ted DiBiase, Jr.|Ted DiBiase]]) at [[SummerSlam (2009)|SummerSlam]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/results/|title=North of disorder|date=2009-08-10first=Greg|last=Adkins||accessdate=2009-08-10|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> At the pay-per-view event, DX defeated Legacy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/matches/11196552/results/|title=Results: How DX won the war|last=Sitterson|first=Aubrey|date=2009-08-23|accessdate=2009-08-24|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> The two teams would exchange victories, with their feud concluding in October. Two months later, at [[WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs|TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs]], DX defeated [[Chris Jericho]] and [[Paul Wight|The Big Show]] to win the [[Unified WWE Tag Team Championship]] in a [[Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match |
Michaels returned to WWE programming in a series of segments that aired on the August 10, 2009 episode of ''Raw'', where he had [[Kayfabe|scripted]] left the WWE. Triple H met with Michaels at an office cafeteria in Texas where he was working as a chef; throughout the segments, Triple H would try to convince Michaels to return to WWE and reform DX. After several incidents during the segments, Michaels agreed to team with Triple H to face [[The Legacy (professional wrestling)|The Legacy]] ([[Cody Rhodes]] and [[Ted DiBiase, Jr.|Ted DiBiase]]) at [[SummerSlam (2009)|SummerSlam]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/results/|title=North of disorder|date=2009-08-10first=Greg|last=Adkins||accessdate=2009-08-10|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> At the pay-per-view event, DX defeated Legacy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/matches/11196552/results/|title=Results: How DX won the war|last=Sitterson|first=Aubrey|date=2009-08-23|accessdate=2009-08-24|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> The two teams would exchange victories, with their feud concluding in October. Two months later, at [[WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs|TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs]], DX defeated [[Chris Jericho]] and [[Paul Wight|The Big Show]] to win the [[Unified WWE Tag Team Championship]] in a [[Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match]] (TLC).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_37357.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE TLC PPV Report 12/13: Complete PPV report on Cena vs. Sheamus, DX vs. JeriShow, Taker vs. Batista|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2009-12-13|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|accessdate=2009-12-14}}</ref> On the January 4 episode of ''Raw'', Michaels buried the hatchet with long-time rival [[Bret Hart]], as they shook hands and hugged in the ring. In contrast to the storylines featured on the show, this was in fact a real-life reconciliation which laid to rest animosities surrounding the "Montreal Screwjob". While some cast doubts on its sincerity, Hart has confirmed that it was indeed genuine.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.calgaryherald.com/sports/Back+Ring/2425695/story.html|title=Back in the Ring: Hart seeks closure in comeback|work=[[Calgary Sun]]|first=Heath|last=McCoy|accessdate=2010-01-11}}</ref><!--DO NOT ADD WEEK BY WEEK EVENTS, RUMORS OR SPECULATION. THIS INCLUDES ANNOUNCED MATCHES THAT HAVE NOT YET OCCURRED. WIKIPEDIA IS NOT A NEWS SITE BUT AN ONLINE ENCYCLOPEDIA. Please see the articles "Wikipedia:Recentism", "Wikipedia:What Wikipedia is not" and "Wikipedia:Guide to writing better articles" for more information. --> |
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==Personal life== |
==Personal life== |
Revision as of 08:37, 16 January 2010
Shawn Michaels | |
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![]() | |
Born | Chandler, Arizona[1] | July 22, 1965
Professional wrestling career | |
Ring name(s) | Shawn Michaels Sean Michaels[2] |
Billed height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)[3][4] |
Billed weight | 225 lb (102 kg)[3] |
Billed from | San Antonio, Texas[5] |
Trained by | Jose Lothario[6] |
Debut | October 16, 1984[7] |
Michael Shawn Hickenbottom (born July 22, 1965), better known by his ring name Shawn Michaels, is an American professional wrestler. He performs for World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), formerly the World Wrestling Federation, on its Raw brand as one half of the Unified WWE Tag Team Champions along with Triple H. Hickenbottom is one of the senior performers in WWE, having joined in 1988.
Hickenbottom began his wrestling career with Mid-South Wrestling, now known as Universal Wrestling Federation, and American Wrestling Association (AWA). During his time with AWA, he performed in partnership with Marty Jannetty, as The Midnight Rockers; winning the AWA World Tag Team Championship twice. Hickenbottom and Jannetty then signed with World Wrestling Federation (WWF), while in contract with AWA. They returned to AWA, only to go back to the WWF in 1988.
Hickenbottom later worked as a sole performer, taking on a new persona of "The Heartbreak Kid." He was the leader of a backstage group known as The Kliq, which was known for performing an unscripted act during the Madison Square Garden "Curtain Call" incident in 1996. The following year, he teamed up with Hunter Hearst Hemsley, who often was referred to as Triple H (HHH), and Chyna to form D-Generation X (DX). This group of wrestlers was known for their sophomoric crude humor. That same year, Hickenbottom took part in one of the most controversial matches in wrestling history, dubbed as the "Montreal Screwjob." After a back injury forced him to retire following his WWF Championship loss at WrestleMania XIV, Hickenbottom opened a wrestling academy, called The Shawn Michaels Wrestling Academy, in which he trained upcoming wrestlers. He made his in-ring return at SummerSlam in 2002. In 2006, Hickenbottom and Triple H briefly reformed DX, but after an injury that Triple H sustained, Hickenbottom returned to singles wrestling. Although as of 2009, the duo reunited as a tag team once more.
Among other accolades, Hickenbottom is a four-time world champion: a three-time WWF Champion and a former World Heavyweight Champion. He was also the winner of the 1995 and 1996 Royal Rumbles and was the company's first Grand Slam Champion. He has also won the Slammy Award a record 10 times. Aside from professional wrestling, Hickenbottom is a born-again Christian, husband, and father of two children.
Early life
Hickenbottom was born on July 22, 1965 in Chandler, Arizona.[1][8] The last of four children – Randy, Scott, and Shari are his older siblings – he was raised in a military family and spent a brief part of his early years in Reading, Berkshire, England,[1] but grew up in San Antonio, Texas. As a child, Hickenbottom disliked the name "Michael," so his family and friends just called him "Shawn."[9] Ever since, he has been referred to as Shawn. Additionally, Hickenbottom moved around frequently since his father was in the military.[9]
He knew he wanted to become a professional wrestler at the age of twelve.[8] Hickenbottom was already an athlete; his career began at the age of six when he started playing football.[10] He was a stand-out linebacker at Randolph High School and eventually became captain of the football team.[3][11] After graduating, Hickenbottom attended Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas, but soon realized that college life was not for him.[12] Then he began pursuing a career in professional wrestling, a type of sports entertainment in which theatrical events are combined with a competitive sport.[3]
Professional wrestling career
Early career (1984–1988)
Hickenbottom began to train under Mexican professional wrestler Jose Lothario.[6][7] During his training, Hickenbottom adopted the ring name, Shawn Michaels.[2] After his training with Lothario, he debuted as Shawn Michaels with Mid-South Wrestling and Texas All-Star Wrestling (TASW) promotions in 1984.[2] During his time with TASW, Michaels replaced Nick Kiniski in the American Breed tag team, teaming with Paul Diamond. Michaels and Diamond were awarded the TASW Tag Team Championship by Chavo Guerrero, Sr.[8] The team was later renamed American Force.[13] He also worked for Central States Wrestling.[14] There, he and tag team partner Marty Jannetty defeated The Batten Twins for the Central States Tag Team Championship, later losing it back to the Battens.[8] Michaels also made several appearances in the Dallas, Texas-based World Class Championship Wrestling throughout 1985.
Michaels made his national-level debut at the age of twenty in American Wrestling Association (AWA), once again teaming with Marty Jannetty.[6] The pair were billed as "The Midnight Rockers" and held the AWA World Tag Team Championship, defeating Doug Somers and Buddy Rose.[6] In 1987, The Rockers were signed by a competing promotion: the World Wrestling Federation (WWF).[6] They were fired from WWF two weeks later, for a bar incident (a misunderstanding, according to Michaels' autobiography).[6][15] They then returned to AWA, but were re-signed by WWF a year later.[15]
World Wrestling Federation
The Rockers (1988–1991)
The Rockers redebuted at a WWF live event on July 7, 1988.[16] Due to WWF chairman Vince McMahon's desire to have his performers carry WWF-exclusive ring names, Michaels and Jannetty were renamed, as simply "The Rockers."[2] The team proved popular with both children and women.[6] The team was a mid-card stalwart of television and pay-per-view shows for the next two years.[17]
In October 1990, The Rockers were scheduled to win the WWF Tag Team Championship from The Hart Foundation (Bret Hart and Jim Neidhart), as Neidhart, half of the championship team, was in the process of negotiating his release from the company.[17] The match was taped with The Rockers winning the belts, but soon after, Neidhart came to an agreement with management and was rehired.[17] The belts were returned to the Hart Foundation, while the title change was never broadcast or even acknowledged on television.[17] When news spread, WWF explained that the original result was void due to a collapsed turnbuckle in the ring during the bout. A buckle had indeed broken, but not to a noticeable or dangerous extent during the match.[2] The Rockers continued their partnership, eventually splitting on December 2, 1991 during an incident on Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake's televised Barber Shop talk show promotional segment.[18] Michaels superkicked Jannetty and threw him through a glass window on the set of Beefcake's talk show.[6][19] Jannetty disappeared from the company, and Michaels became a villain as "The Boy Toy."[18]
The Heartbreak Kid (1992–1995)
At the suggestion of "Mr Perfect" Curt Hennig, Michaels adopted the nickname "The Heartbreak Kid."[6] Along with his new name came a new gimmick as a vain, cocky villain.[20] He was put together with mirror-carrying manager, Sensational Sherri, who, according to the storyline, had become infatuated with him.[18] Sherri even sang the first version of his new theme music, "Sexy Boy."[2] During that period, Michaels normally wrestled during the first half of live events, and his departure was announced with the words, "Shawn Michaels has left the building" (alluding to the phrase "Elvis has left the building").[21]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8b/Shawn_Michaels_in_1994.jpg/175px-Shawn_Michaels_in_1994.jpg)
Michaels failed to win the WWF Intercontinental Championship from Bret Hart in July 1992, even losing against him at a live event in the WWF's first-ever ladder match.[22] He, however, won the title from The British Bulldog on the October 27, 1992 edition of Saturday Night's Main Event, which aired on November 14.[23] Shortly thereafter, he was in a pay-per-view main event for the first time, in which he lost to Hart, for the WWF Championship at the 1992 Survivor Series.[24] Michaels and Hart were moved to the main event after The Ultimate Warrior was unable to compete in the tag team match that involved Randy Savage against the team of Ric Flair and Razor Ramon.[25] During this time, Michaels and Sherri split and he engaged himself in a feud with former tag team partner Marty Jannetty.[6] Michaels lost the Intercontinental Championship to Jannetty on Monday Night Raw on May 17, 1993.[23] He then regained it on June 6 with the help of his debuting "bodyguard" (and off-air friend) Diesel.[2][23]
In September 1993, Michaels had quit the company, after it was announced that he had failed to defend his title enough times during a set period; in reality, he had been suspended for testing positive for steroids – a charge that Michaels denies to this day.[26] After turning down World Championship Wrestling (WCW)'s advances, Michaels returned to the WWF and made several appearances in the United States Wrestling Association (USWA) during a WWF/USWA cross-promotion. He returned to WWF television in November at the Survivor Series pay-per-view, substituting for Jerry Lawler, who was dealing with legal issues, in a match pitting himself and three of Lawler's "Knights" against the Hart brothers, Bret, Bruce, Keith, and Owen.[27]
He soon entered a staged rivalry with Razor Ramon, who had won the vacated Intercontinental Championship, during Michaels' absence.[28] Since Michaels had never been defeated in the ring for the title, he claimed to be the rightful champion and even carried around his old title belt.[28] This feud culminated in a ladder match between the two at WrestleMania X.[28] Michaels lost the match, which featured both his and Ramon's belts suspended above a ladder in the ring.[27][28] This match was voted by fans as "PWI Match of the Year" by Pro Wrestling Illustrated.[6] It also received a 5-star rating from Wrestling Observer Newsletter member Dave Meltzer, one of four WWE matches to do so. Over the next few months, Michaels battled various injuries and launched the Heartbreak Hotel television talk show segment, mainly shown on WWF Superstars.[29]
On August 28, 1994, Michaels and Diesel captured the Tag Team Championship from The Headshrinkers (Samu and Fatu).[30] The next day, at SummerSlam, Diesel lost the Intercontinental Championship to Ramon when Michaels accidentally superkicked Diesel.[27] This triggered a split between Michaels and Diesel, a storyline that was drawn out until Survivor Series that November.[31] Michaels went on to win the Royal Rumble in 1995,[32] which set up a championship grudge match at WrestleMania XI against Diesel (who had gone on to win the WWF Championship from Bob Backlund).[32] As part of the storyline, Michaels recruited Sycho Sid as his bodyguard for the build-up, lost the match,[33] and was attacked by Sid the following night.[34] After this, Michaels took time off,[34] because Vince McMahon wanted Michaels to become a fan favorite.[35]
Clique's influence (1995–1997)
Michaels returned to the ring, as a fan favorite, in May 1995. He went on to defeat Jeff Jarrett in July at the In Your House pay-per-view event, to win his third Intercontinental Championship.[6][36] This led to a title defense against Razor Ramon at SummerSlam, in a ladder match, which Michaels won.[6] Around this time, Michaels became the alleged leader of a backstage group known as The Clique.[6] Others perceived the group to have sufficient clout with WWF owner Vince McMahon, becoming dominant wrestling figures in the WWF for several years in the mid-1990s. Michaels disputes the perception, saying that McMahon pushed only deserving wrestlers.[37] Michaels' fan base was later nicknamed "The Kliq" as an inside reference to the real "Clique".[38] In October 1995, he was legitimately attacked by several men outside a bar in Syracuse, New York.[2] Shortly afterwards, at the In Your House: Great White North pay-per-view, Michaels forfeited the Intercontinental Championship to staged rival Dean Douglas because he was, according to WWF, unable to compete.[39] Later in the night, Douglas lost the championship to Clique member Razor Ramon.[40] The next month, during a match with Owen Hart on an episode of Monday Night Raw, Owen performed an enzuigiri that struck the back of Michaels' head.[41] They continued the match, but Michaels collapsed in the ring, supposedly because he had suffered a concussion.[2][41] The concussion was scripted, which was kept from most fans at the time.[2] A retirement angle was written so that Michaels could take some time off, after he came back from an injury too soon.[2]
After teasing a retirement, Michaels returned to WWF at the Royal Rumble match in 1996, which he wound up winning for a second year in a row, to receive a WWF Championship match in the main event at WrestleMania XII.[42] Around this time, Jose Lothario became Michaels' on-screen manager.[43] At WrestleMania XII, Michaels defeated Bret Hart in the 'sudden death' overtime of their sixty minute Iron Man match, which had ended in a 0–0 tie.[6] On May 19, 1996 in an incident known as "Curtain Call: The MSG Incident," Michaels won a steel cage match against Diesel. After the match ended, Razor Ramon, who was about to leave WWF to company rival WCW, came to the ring and hugged Michaels.[44] Although Hunter Hearst Helmsley and Nash were seen as villains at the time, in contrast to Michaels and Hall, they were also members of The Clique, and joined in the good-bye hug as a group.[44] The incident was seen as a rare breach in "kayfabe", the faux action and storylines that promoters wanted the fans to see as real.[44] As WCW gained momentum due to the signings of Hall and Nash, Michaels held the championship for most of the year. Michaels' championship reign ended at the 1996 Survivor Series event, where he lost to Sycho Sid, his former bodyguard.[45] Michaels recaptured the championship from Sid in January 1997 at the Royal Rumble.[46]
On a special episode of Raw dubbed Thursday Raw Thursday, Michaels vacated the WWF Championship;[2] he explained to fans that he was informed by doctors that he had conjured a knee injury, and that he had to retire.[47] His speech was regarded as controversial, as Michaels was allegedly unwilling to lose to Bret Hart at WrestleMania 13 (since it was noted that he was going to have a rematch with Hart at WrestleMania).[6] Michaels contemplated thoughts of retirement and stated that he "had to find his smile again," which he had "lost" somewhere down the line.[6] After knee surgery by Dr. James Andrews, Michaels returned a few months later, briefly teaming with Stone Cold Steve Austin to win the WWF Tag Team Championship.[48] In his autobiography, Michaels reveals about his real-life feud with Bret Hart, claiming that Bret did interviews on live television claiming that he [Michaels] was faking his whole injury.[49]
At SummerSlam, Michaels officiated the WWF Championship match between WWF Champion The Undertaker and Bret Hart.[50] The match ended in controversial fashion, with Michaels hitting Undertaker with a chair (unintentionally, as he was aiming for Bret after he spat in his face).[50] Michaels was then forced to award the championship to his nemesis, Bret Hart.[50] At WWF One Night Only, held in Birmingham, England in September, Michaels defeated The British Bulldog to capture the WWF European Championship.[50][51] The fans at the event were so appalled at the result of the match they booed Michaels out of the building, to the extent that they littered the ring with rubbish.[50][52] With this win, Michaels became the first Grand Slam Champion.[3] During the 1997 SummerSlam event, a feud culminated between Michaels and The Undertaker, after Michaels struck The Undertaker with the usage of a steel chair. At the October pay-per-view event, In Your House: Badd Blood, Michaels and Undertaker participated in the first Hell in a Cell match. During the match, it saw Michaels fall off the side of the 15-foot (5 m) high structure through a table and saw him as the winner in the match.[53] The match received a 5-star rating from Dave Meltzer.
In the summer, Michaels joined forces with real-life friend, Hunter Hearst Helmsley, Hunter's then-girlfriend, Chyna, and Rick Rude to form the stable, D-Generation X (DX).[54] Moving away from the family-oriented product, this marked the beginning of the WWF Attitude Era.[55] Michaels continued his rivalry with Bret Hart and his reformed Hart Foundation, which was now a pro-Canada stable. Michaels taunted the group and Canada by engaging in acts, such as blowing his nose with and humping the Canadian Flag. Michaels later claimed the flag desecration was Bret's idea.[56] Michaels' feud with the Hart Foundation culminated in a championship match at Survivor Series in 1997 against Bret Hart. Michaels came out of this match, dubbed by fans the "Montreal Screwjob", as the WWF Champion.[57] Michaels now held both the WWF and European championship at the same time. Michaels, however, lost the European Championship to D-Generation X member, Hunter Hurst Hemsley, who often was referred to as Triple H (HHH), when he pinned him during a farcical match, making Triple H the European Champion.[58]
Retirement, commissioner and departure (1998–2000)
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/da/Shawn-Michaels-on-RAW-08.jpg/125px-Shawn-Michaels-on-RAW-08.jpg)
At the 1998 Royal Rumble, Michaels received a legitimate back injury in a Casket match against The Undertaker.[6] Michaels took a back body drop to the outside of the ring and smashed his lower back on the casket, causing him to herniate two discs and crush one completely.[6][59] This forced Michaels into retirement after losing the WWF Championship to Steve Austin at WrestleMania XIV.[60]
Michaels returned to the WWF on November 23, 1998, but not as a wrestler; instead, he replaced Sgt. Slaughter as the WWF Commissioner, a portrayed match maker and rules enforcer, joining Vince McMahon's group of wrestlers called the Corporation as a villain.[61] Throughout late 1998 and early 1999, Michaels made regular television appearances on Raw, in which he scheduled matches, throwing around his authority, and sometimes even deciding the outcome of matches.[62][63][64] In early 1999, Michaels re-joined DX as a fan favorite, but disappeared from WWF television for a few months to have back surgery,[65] and by the time he had returned, DX had broken up.
Michaels made occasional appearances on WWF television as the Commissioner during the spring and summer of 1999. Michaels was absent from WWF television until May 21, 2000 when he returned to officiate the Iron Man match between The Rock and Triple H.[66] One month later, Michaels briefly reappeared to hand over the role of Commissioner to Mick Foley and afterwards was absent from television for nearly a year.[67] During this time, believing that his wrestling career was over, Michaels was interested in training individuals who wanted to become professional wrestlers.[68] He saw potential in using his name and opening the Shawn Michaels Wrestling Academy, after his lawyer, Skip McCormick, suggested the idea.[68] Michaels eventually left the academy.[68] During this time, Michaels was a sportscaster for San Antonio's local news for a short time during his retirement.[68]
Return to WWE
Return to wrestling and various feuds (2002–2005)
In 2002, Michaels returned to wrestling and was brought into the New World Order (nWo) by Kevin Nash as a new member of the group.[69] After the nWo had disbanded, Triple H appeared to make amends with Michaels. This was solidified when Michaels pleaded Triple H to return to Raw.[70] Later on, they came down to the ring sporting their DX music and attire. When the pair was about to perform their trademark "Suck It" taunt, Triple H turned on Michaels by performing a Pedigree on him.[70] Continuing the angle, a week later, Triple H attacked Michaels from behind in a parking lot and put his head through a car window, in storyline.[71] In response, Michaels challenged Triple H to "a fight" (a non–sanctioned match) at SummerSlam,[72] which Triple H accepted, laying the foundation for a rivalry that lasted for years. Michaels won at SummerSlam, but was attacked by Triple H with a sledgehammer after the match.[73] At Survivor Series, Michaels won the World Heavyweight Championship from Triple H in the first-ever Elimination Chamber match.[74] Michaels' reign as champion came to an end when he lost the championship to Triple H in a Three Stages of Hell match, a series of three matches in which wrestlers attempt to win the majority of matches, at Armageddon.[75]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bc/Jerichomichaels.jpg/220px-Jerichomichaels.jpg)
Michaels then began a rivalry with Chris Jericho, after Jericho claimed that he was the next Shawn Michaels.[76] On January 13, 2003, after Jericho won a battle royal to select his entry number for the Royal Rumble, choosing number two in order to start the match with Michaels,[77] who had already been named number one. At the Royal Rumble, Jericho, with the help of Christian, eliminated Michaels.[78] Michaels defeated Jericho at WrestleMania XIX.[79] After the match, Michaels offered his hand to Jericho, who instead of shaking it, hugged Michaels. At first it seemed like good sportsmanship by Jericho until he quickly kicked Michaels in the groin.[79]
As a part of an ongoing feud with Triple H, the two competed alongside Chris Benoit in the main event match at WrestleMania XX for the World Heavyweight Championship. The former DX partners both came up short in the match, however, as Benoit won the championship.[80] At Bad Blood in June, Michaels lost to Triple H in a Hell in a Cell match.[80] Four months later, he lost a World Heavyweight championship match against Triple H, after Edge interfered at Taboo Tuesday, when the fans voted for him ahead of Edge and Chris Benoit to face Triple H one more time.[81] Following this, Michaels was out of action for a few months with a legitimate torn meniscus.[3][82]
At the Royal Rumble in 2005, Michaels competed in the Rumble match and eliminated Kurt Angle. In seeking revenge, Angle re-entered the ring and eliminated Michaels, and thus placed him in an ankle lock submission hold, outside of the ring.[83] Michaels issued a challenge to Angle for a match at WrestleMania 21, which Angle accepted when he appeared on Raw to attack Michaels.[84] The following week on Raw, Marty Jannetty and Michaels had a one time reunion as The Rockers and defeated La Résistance (Robért Conway and Sylvain Grenier).[85] Three days later on SmackDown!, Angle defeated Jannetty, after Angle made Jannetty submit to the ankle lock.[86] To send a "message" to Michaels, Angle also humiliated Michaels' former manager, Sensational Sherri, when he applied the ankle lock hold on her.[87] At WrestleMania 21, Angle defeated Michaels by submission, again with an ankle lock.[83]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4b/Shawn-Michaels-signature-pose.jpg/225px-Shawn-Michaels-signature-pose.jpg)
The next night on Raw, Muhammad Hassan and Daivari came out to confront and assault Michaels.[88] On the April 11 episode of Raw, Michaels approached authority figure Eric Bischoff, in which he demanded a handicap match with Hassan and Daivari, a match consisting of one wrestler or team of wrestlers facing off against a team of wrestlers with numerical superiority such as two against one, or three against two. Bischoff refused to schedule the match, but informed Michaels to find a partner and he would grant him the match. Michaels then made a plea for Hulk Hogan to come back and team with him.[89] On the April 18 episode of Raw, Hassan again led an attack on Michaels until Hogan appeared to save Michaels and accept his offer.[90] At Backlash, Hassan and Daivari lost to Hogan and Michaels when Daivari was pinned.[91] On the July 4 episode of Raw, Michaels and Hulk Hogan had a tag team match, which they won.[92] During the post-match pose, Michaels hit Hogan with his superkick, knocking Hogan to the ground and making Michaels a villain for the first time since returning in 2002.[92] The following week on Raw, Michaels appeared on Piper's Pit where he superkicked Roddy Piper and then challenged Hogan to a match at SummerSlam.[93][94] Hogan defeated Michaels at SummerSlam, and after the match Michaels extended his hand to him, saying "I needed to know, and I found out" and he and Hogan shook hands. Michaels left the ring to allow Hogan to celebrate with the crowd, and Michaels once again became a fan favorite.[95]
Feuding with McMahon; reforming DX (2006–2007)
On the December 26, 2005 episode of Raw, Vince McMahon lauded Michaels for his part in the "Montreal Screwjob". Michaels said he was only being loyal to his company, he had moved on, and McMahon should move on as well. McMahon then began setting unusual stipulations for Michaels' matches and interfering on behalf of Michaels' opponents.[96] During the Royal Rumble, McMahon made his way to the ring, and as Michaels stared at McMahon, Shane McMahon made a surprising appearance, eliminating Michaels from the match.[97] On the February 13 episode of Raw, McMahon tried unsuccessfully to force Michaels to sign retirement papers.[98] The following week, Michaels won a handicap match against the Spirit Squad (Kenny, Johnny, Mitch, Nicky and Mikey) and after the match, Michaels' former partner, Marty Jannetty, came down to help Michaels from the assault by the Spirit Squad. After the two reunited, McMahon offered Jannetty a contract if he "kissed his ass."[99] The following week, Jannetty refused McMahon's offer and instead took Chris Masters' "Masterlock challenge."[100] Michaels tried to help Jannetty, which ultimately resulted in Shane attacking Michaels and forcing him to kiss his father's ass.[100] At Saturday Night's Main Event, Shane defeated Michaels in a Street Fight, a match without disqualifications and where scoring conditions can occur anywhere, after he applied a sharpshooter on Michaels, which led to McMahon immediately ordering for the bell to be rung, even though Michaels did not submit, which was an allusion to the "Montreal Screwjob".[101] Despite interference from the Spirit Squad and Shane, Michaels defeated McMahon at WrestleMania 22 in a No Holds Barred match, a match where there are no disqualifications.[98] At Backlash, The McMahons (Vince and Shane) defeated Michaels and "God" in a tag team match, with help from the Spirit Squad in a no disqualification match.[102] On the May 22 episode of Raw, the Squad was scripted to injure Michaels' knee.[103] This was angle was written so that Michaels could have surgery on his knee, which had been legitimately injured for some time.[104]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7b/D-Generation_X.jpg/220px-D-Generation_X.jpg)
In 2006, a series of events took place which suggested a reunion of Michaels and Triple H as DX. They began at WrestleMania 22, where both Michaels and Triple H performed the crotch chop, during their matches.[98] On Raw, the two continued to deliver chops, as Michaels feuded with Vince McMahon and Triple H went for the WWE Championship, repeatedly butting heads with Vince McMahon in the process. On the June 12 episode of Raw, DX officially reunited.[105] During Triple H's gauntlet match, which had him compete against the Spirit Squad. Michaels came in to help Triple H, and the two did the DX "crotch chops."[105] At Vengeance, DX defeated the Spirit Squad in a 5–on–2 handicap match.[106] They also defeated the Spirit Squad at Saturday Night's Main Event in a 5-on-2 elimination match and defeated The McMahons at SummerSlam.[107] At Unforgiven, DX once again defeated the McMahons and ECW World Champion The Big Show in a Hell in a Cell match.[108]
At Cyber Sunday, DX took on Rated-RKO (Edge and Randy Orton). The fan-selected referee Eric Bischoff allowed the illegal use of a steel chair to give Rated-RKO the ill-gotten win and the plaudit of being the first tag team to defeat DX in a tag team match since their reformation in June 2006.[109] At Survivor Series, however, Team DX emerged victorious against Team Rated-RKO.[110] At New Year's Revolution, Triple H suffered a legitimate torn right quadriceps during their match with Rated-RKO.[111] Rated-RKO claimed victory over DX, citing Triple H's injury, as the "end" of DX.[112] On January 15, Michaels lived up to his word of "dealing" with Rated-RKO, from his comments the previous week before,[113][114] when he took out Randy Orton with a con-chair-to after a handicap match against Edge and Orton.[115]
Various feuds (2007–2009)
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7f/Michaels-Cena.jpg/220px-Michaels-Cena.jpg)
On the January 29 episode of Raw, Michaels captured the World Tag Team Championship with WWE Champion John Cena after defeating Rated-RKO.[116] He then defeated both Edge and Orton in a Triple Threat number one contender's match on another episode of Raw to earn a shot at the WWE Championship.[117] At WrestleMania 23, Cena retained the championship, after he made Michaels submit to the STFU.[118] The next night on Raw, Michaels and Cena competed in two back-to-back ten team battle royals, winning the first and losing the titles in the second to The Hardys (Matt and Jeff) when Michaels threw Cena over the top rope.[119] Michaels' feud with Cena continued and he faced off with Cena, Edge and Randy Orton in a Fatal Four-Way Match at Backlash for the WWE Championship. Cena retained the championship when Michaels performed Sweet Chin Music on Cena causing him to fall on Orton, which gained Cena the pinfall.[120]
Michaels then entered a feud with Randy Orton when Orton claimed that he could beat Michaels.[121] The week before their scheduled match at Judgment Day, after Michaels won a match against Edge, Orton interfered, punting Michaels in the head.[121] Orton assaulted Michaels again, just prior to their match at Judgment Day, interrupting Michaels' interview segment.[122] Michaels collapsed during the course of their match, causing Orton to win by referee stoppage.[122] Afterwards, Orton continued the beating, when he performed an RKO to a fallen Michaels. Michaels was then removed out of the ring in a stretcher.[122] During the feud, Michaels conjured a storyline concussion. This injury was used to keep Michaels out of action, as he required surgery for his knee.[123] Michaels made his return on the October 8 episode of Raw, performing a superkick to newly-crowned WWE Champion, Randy Orton, during his title ceremony at the end of the show and then celebrating over the knocked-out champion as Vince McMahon watched.[124] At Cyber Sunday, Michaels was voted by the fans to face Orton for the WWE Championship; though he won via disqualification when Orton hit Michaels with a low blow, which resulted in Orton retaining the championship.[125] Michaels got another opportunity at the WWE Championship, when he was granted his rematch against Orton at Survivor Series.[126] In their match, Michaels was banned from using Sweet Chin Music upon request by Orton, referring to as Michaels superkicking Orton week after week.[127] Michaels lost the match, when Orton performed an RKO for the win.[126]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e7/Shawn_Michaels_at_WrestleMania_XXIV.jpg/220px-Shawn_Michaels_at_WrestleMania_XXIV.jpg)
As part of the storyline involving Ric Flair, Michaels faced Flair in a Career Threatening match at WrestleMania XXIV, in which he won by performing Sweet Chin Music and thus ending Flair's career.[128] Afterwards, Batista confronted Michaels about his actions at WrestleMania, calling him selfish and egotistical.[129] The two faced off at Backlash with Chris Jericho as the guest referee. Michaels won after faking a knee injury and performing Sweet Chin Music.[130] Jericho then confronted Michaels on this matter, in which Michaels admitted to faking the injury in order to defeat Batista.[131] Michaels then defeated Jericho at Judgment Day.[132] At One Night Stand, Michaels lost to Batista in a stretcher match, thus ending their feud.[133] On the June 9 episode of Raw, Michaels was attacked by Chris Jericho during his talk show segment, The Highlight Reel, being thrown directly through a television screen.[134] The following week, it was revealed that, within the context of the storyline, Michaels had suffered a detached retina.[135] At The Great American Bash, a match between Michaels and Jericho was scheduled, in which Jericho assaulted Michaels' eye, which caused Jericho to win by referee stoppage.[135] A month later at SummerSlam, Michaels was scripted to announce his retirement from professional wrestling, though the staged rivalry between Jericho and himself continued after Jericho punched Michaels' wife in the face.[136] On the August 25 episode of Raw, Michaels denounced his decision to retire and challenged Jericho to an unsanctioned match at Unforgiven, which Jericho accepted.[137] The following week, Michaels and Jericho held a scripted official contract signing for the unsanctioned match. During the contract signing, a confrontation with Jericho occurred.[138] A predicament ensued when Michaels suffered a small tear on his left triceps,[138][139] though Michaels was medically cleared to compete in the match.[138] At Unforgiven, Michaels defeated Jericho, after the referee stopped the match, due to the severity of the beating Michaels was giving Jericho.[140] It was at the same September event that Jericho replaced CM Punk in the World Heavyweight Championship scramble match, which saw him win the match and become World Heavyweight Champion.[140] The following month at No Mercy, Michaels met Jericho in a ladder match in which Jericho defended the championship against Michaels.[141] At the event, Jericho defeated Michaels to retain the title.[142]
In December 2008, Michaels accepted an offer to become an employee of John "Bradshaw" Layfield (JBL). The storyline was that Michaels had lost his family's personal savings due to the global recession, forcing him to accept JBL's offer of employment.[143] After failing to secure JBL the World Heavyweight Championship against John Cena at the Royal Rumble,[144] Michaels agreed to take part in an "All or Nothing" match at No Way Out in February.[145] Michaels won the match, letting Michaels out of his one-year contract with JBL immediately while still receiving full payment.[146] Michaels became the first person to successfully defeat Vladimir Kozlov on the March 2 episode of Raw, and as a result earned the right to face The Undertaker at WrestleMania XXV in April.[147] At the event, The Undertaker defeated Michaels to extend his WrestleMania winning streak to 17-0.[148] After WrestleMania, Michaels took a hiatus from WWE.
Return of D-Generation-X (2009–present)
Michaels returned to WWE programming in a series of segments that aired on the August 10, 2009 episode of Raw, where he had scripted left the WWE. Triple H met with Michaels at an office cafeteria in Texas where he was working as a chef; throughout the segments, Triple H would try to convince Michaels to return to WWE and reform DX. After several incidents during the segments, Michaels agreed to team with Triple H to face The Legacy (Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase) at SummerSlam.[149] At the pay-per-view event, DX defeated Legacy.[150] The two teams would exchange victories, with their feud concluding in October. Two months later, at TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs, DX defeated Chris Jericho and The Big Show to win the Unified WWE Tag Team Championship in a Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match (TLC).[151] On the January 4 episode of Raw, Michaels buried the hatchet with long-time rival Bret Hart, as they shook hands and hugged in the ring. In contrast to the storylines featured on the show, this was in fact a real-life reconciliation which laid to rest animosities surrounding the "Montreal Screwjob". While some cast doubts on its sincerity, Hart has confirmed that it was indeed genuine.[152]
Personal life
Hickenbottom's marriage to his first wife, Theresa Wood, was brief and ended in divorce, but was amicably settled.[153] He is now married to former WCW Nitro Girl, Rebecca Hickenbottom (née Curci), who went by the stage name of Whisper. They were married on March 31, 1999 at the Graceland Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas, Nevada in a small ceremony.[154] The only people present were the couple and an Elvis impersonator. The couple have a son, Cameron Kade (born on January 5, 2000)[155] and a daughter, Cheyenne Michelle (born on August 19, 2004).[156]
Hickenbottom has several tattoos. He has a tattoo of a heart with a sword through it, that has a snake around it in the shape of an "S."[157][158] He has one on his wedding finger, that has an R for his wife Rebecca.[158] Another in his left wrist, is a bracelet design that says "Cameron" for his son.[158] On his left leg he has a picture of his wife,[158] the other leg has a picture of the state of Texas.[158] Finally, he has a small broken heart with the letters "HBK" above it, tattooed on his right hip.[158]
In 1996, Hickenbottom posed in a non-nude layout for Playgirl magazine.[159] It was not until after he posed that he discovered that Playgirl has a mostly homosexual readership, which was seen as humorous by his fellow wrestlers.[159] He is ambidextrous, which caused him problems as a boy playing football, as he had trouble differentiating between his right and left directions.[10] He uses his right hand to draw and color and his left hand to write.[10] He typically uses his right leg when performing Sweet Chin Music, but has been known to use either arm when performing his signature elbow drop. Hickenbottom is a fan of the San Antonio Spurs. He has been seen wearing Spurs merchandise and attending Spurs games.[160] John "Bradshaw" Layfield (JBL) made a reference to Hickenbottom being a season ticket holder during the 2007 Royal Rumble.[161]
Hickenbottom is a born again Christian. He was raised as a Roman Catholic, but became a non-denominational Christian under the influence of his wife Rebecca.[2] His ring attire often incorporates cross symbols, and while on the way to the ring, he normally gets down on his knees and mouths a prayer while his pyrotechnics go off. He has been seen in the congregation during a televised service of John Hagee's Cornerstone Church in his hometown of San Antonio. Hickenbottom is a Bible teacher in San Antonio.[2] He also appeared on a Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) program along with fellow professional wrestler Sting.[162]
In wrestling
- Finishing moves
- Modified figure four leglock[163] – early 2008
- Sweet Chin Music[3] (Superkick, with theatrics)
- Teardrop Suplex[164] (Leg hook Saito suplex) – 1992–1993
- Signature moves
- Arm trap crossface[165] – 2007–present
- Backhand chop[165]
- Belly to back suplex[164]
- Diving elbow drop, with theatrics[2]
- Dropkick[164]
- Figure four leglock[164]
- Flying forearm smash followed by a kip-up[2]
- Inverted atomic drop[2]
- Moonsault,[2] sometimes while springboarding to the outside
- Skin the cat[79]
- Slingshot crossbody[164]
- Entrance themes
- The song "Sexy Boy" was originally written for Michaels by Jimmy Hart. Hart thanked Michaels personally for continuing to use the song as his entrance music when he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005.[166] Michaels' entrance music was originally performed by Sherri Martel until she became a crowd favorite.[2] The second version was performed by Michaels himself with traces of Sherri in the chorus portion of the song. The current version of the song in use today is the version Michaels sang himself.[2]
- During DX reunions, Michaels used the DX entrance "Break It Down", by The Chris Warren Band, even when wrestling in singles competition, but then went back to using "Sexy Boy".
Championships and accomplishments
- American Wrestling Association
- Central States Wrestling
- NWA Central States Tag Team Championship (1 time)[8] – with Marty Jannetty
- Continental Wrestling Association
- AWA Southern Tag Team Championship (2 times)[2][8] – with Marty Jannetty
- Pro Wrestling Illustrated
- PWI Feud of the Year (2008) vs. Chris Jericho
- PWI Match of the Year (1993)[168] vs. Marty Jannetty on Monday Night Raw on May 17
- PWI Match of the Year (1994)[169] vs. Razor Ramon in a Ladder match at WrestleMania X
- PWI Match of the Year (1995)[6] vs. Diesel at WrestleMania XI
- PWI Match of the Year (1996)[6] vs. Bret Hart in an Iron Man match at WrestleMania XII
- PWI Match of the Year (2004)[168] vs. Chris Benoit and Triple H at WrestleMania XX
- PWI Match of the Year (2005)[168] vs. Kurt Angle at WrestleMania 21
- PWI Match of the Year (2006)[168] vs. Vince McMahon in a No Holds Barred match at WrestleMania 22
- PWI Match of the Year (2007)[168] vs. John Cena on Raw on April 23
- PWI Match of the Year (2008)[168] vs. Ric Flair at WrestleMania XXIV
- PWI Most Popular Wrestler of the Year (1995, 1996)[169]
- PWI ranked him #1 of the top 500 singles wrestlers of the year in the PWI 500 in 1996[170]
- PWI ranked him #10 of the top 500 singles wrestlers of the "PWI Years" in 2003[171]
- PWI ranked him #33 of the Top 100 Tag Teams of the "PWI Years" with Marty Jannetty in 2003[171]
- Texas All-Star Wrestling
- Texas Wrestling Alliance
- World Wrestling Federation / World Wrestling Entertainment
- WWF Championship (3 times)[167]
- WWF European Championship (1 time)[167]
- WWF Intercontinental Championship (3 times)[167]
- WWF/E World Tag Team Championship (5 times, current)[167] – with Diesel (2), Steve Austin (1), John Cena (1), and Triple H (1)
- WWE Tag Team Championship (1 time, current) – with Triple H (1)
- World Heavyweight Championship (1 time)[167]
- Royal Rumble (1995, 1996)[167]
- Fourth Triple Crown Champion
- First Grand Slam Champion
- Slammy Award for Best Slammin' Jammin' Entrance (1996)
- Slammy Award for Best Threads (1996)
- Slammy Award for Squared Circle Shocker (1996) Won for collapsing; Owen Hart accepts the award for making Michaels collapse
- Slammy Award for Master of Mat Mechanics (1996)
- Slammy Award for US West Match of the Year (1996) vs. Razor Ramon in a Ladder match at SummerSlam
- Slammy Award for Leader of the New Generation (1996)
- Slammy Award for Best Finisher (1997)
- Slammy Award for US West Match of the Year (1997) vs. Bret Hart in an Iron Man match at WrestleMania XII
- Slammy Award for Match of the Year (2008) vs. Ric Flair at WrestleMania XXIV
- Slammy Award for Match of the Year (2009) vs. The Undertaker at WrestleMania XXV
^ In October 1990, Shawn Michaels and Marty Jannetty defeated The Hart Foundation for the title. Despite winning the match, the win and reign are not recognized by WWE, as the ring ropes broke and the match was not aired on television. As a result, Michaels is only officially recognized as a 5-time World Tag Team Champion.
- Wrestling Observer Newsletter
- Best Babyface (1996)
- Feud of the Year (2004) vs. Triple H and Chris Benoit
- Feud of the Year (2008) vs. Chris Jericho
- Match of the Year (1994) vs. Razor Ramon in a Ladder match at WrestleMania X
- Match of the Year (2008) vs. Chris Jericho in a Ladder match at No Mercy
- Most Charismatic (1995, 1996)
- Tag Team of the Year (1989) with Marty Jannetty as The Rockers
- Worst Feud of the Year (2006) with Triple H vs. Shane and Vince McMahon
- Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame (Class of 2003)
See also
Notes
- ^ a b c (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 12–13)
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y The Shawn Michaels Story: Heartbreak & Triumph (DVD). WWE Home Video. 2007.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j "Shawn Michaels' WWE Profile". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2007-07-10.
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 164)
- ^ a b "WWE SmackDown! Shut Your Mouth FAQ - IGN FAQs". IGN. Retrieved 2007-08-03.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u Roopansingh, Jaya. "Shawn Michaels, still the show-stopper". Slam! Sports. Canadian Online Explorer. Retrieved 2008-03-29.
- ^ a b (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 57)
- ^ a b c d e f g h Milner, John (2005-03-12). "Slam! Sports biography". Slam! Sports. Canadian Online Explorer. Retrieved 2007-07-10.
{{cite web}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthors=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ a b (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 18–19)
- ^ a b c (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 15)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 30)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 43–49)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 88)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 75–77)
- ^ a b (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 116–118)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 133)
- ^ a b c d (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 148–150)
- ^ a b c d (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 157–159)
- ^ Robinson, Jon (2005-01-28). "IGN: Shawn Michaels Interview". IGN Sports. News Corporation. Retrieved 2008-08-06.
- ^ Steve, Anderson (2001). "7 Superstars Shining Brightly". Wrestling Digest. Find Articles.com. Retrieved 2008-07-17.
{{cite web}}
: Unknown parameter|month=
ignored (help) - ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 165–166)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 161–162)
- ^ a b c "Title History: Intercontinental". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2008-07-17.
- ^ "2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts". Wrestling’s Historical Cards. Kappa Publishing. 2007. pp. 90–91.
- ^ Baer, Randy (2003). Wrestlecrap: The Very Worst of Pro Wrestling. ECW Press. p. 74. ISBN 1-55022-584-7.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthors=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 182)
- ^ a b c "2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts". Wrestling’s Historical Cards. Kappa Publishing. 2007. pp. 91–92.
- ^ a b c d (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 182–187)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 190)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 195)
- ^ "2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts". Wrestling’s Historical Cards. Kappa Publishing. 2007. pp. 92–93.
- ^ a b (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 196–199)
- ^ Martin, Finn (1995-04-24). "Power Slam Magazine, issue 10". Tough luck Shawn (WrestleMania XI). SW Publishing. pp. 20–25.
- ^ a b (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 204)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 203–204)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 209)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 206–208)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 230)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 213)
- ^ "2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts". Wrestling’s Historical Cards. Kappa Publishing. 2007. p. 94.
- ^ a b (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 215)
- ^ "2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts". Wrestling’s Historical Cards. Kappa Publishing. 2007. p. 95.
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 219)
- ^ a b c (Assael & Mooneyham 2002, p. 156)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 234)
- ^ "HBK's second WWE title reign". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2009-08-25.
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 239–240)
- ^ "Stone Cold & Shawn Michaels first World Tag Team title reign". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2007-07-12.
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 243–244)
- ^ a b c d e (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 247–249)
- ^ "HBK's first European title reign". Retrieved 2007-07-11.
- ^ "2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts". Wrestling’s Historical Cards. Kappa Publishing. 2007. pp. 99–100.
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 257–259)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 252)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 255)
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 274–275)
- ^ "HBK's third WWE title reign". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2007-07-13.
- ^ "Title History: European". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2008-07-16.
- ^ (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, p. 283)
- ^ (Assael & Mooneyham 2002, p. 202)
- ^ "Raw is War". WWE Raw. Season 6. Episode 47. 1998-11-23. USA Network.
{{cite episode}}
: Unknown parameter|serieslink=
ignored (|series-link=
suggested) (help) - ^ "Raw is War". WWE Raw. Season 6. Episode 48. 1998-11-30. USA Network.
{{cite episode}}
: Unknown parameter|serieslink=
ignored (|series-link=
suggested) (help) - ^ "Raw is War". WWE Raw. Season 6. Episode 51. 1998-12-21. USA Network.
{{cite episode}}
: Unknown parameter|serieslink=
ignored (|series-link=
suggested) (help) - ^ "Raw is War". WWE Raw. Season 6. Episode 52. 1998-12-28. USA Network.
{{cite episode}}
: Unknown parameter|serieslink=
ignored (|series-link=
suggested) (help) - ^ Mr. X (1999-01-09). "Foley win Rocks WWF". Slam! Sports. Canadian Online Explorer. Retrieved 2008-07-17.
Michaels, who brought Degeneration X along with him, was later betrayed by his comrades, when he was locked out of the building and pounded by the corporate thugs. That allows Michaels to be absent for awhile and he'll have back surgery.
- ^ "2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts". Wrestling’s Historical Cards. Kappa Publishing. 2007. p. 106.
- ^ "Raw is War". WWE Raw. Season 8. Episode 26. 2000-06-26. USA Network.
{{cite episode}}
: Unknown parameter|serieslink=
ignored (|series-link=
suggested) (help) - ^ a b c d (Michaels & Feigenbaum 2005, pp. 299–302)
- ^ McAvennie, Michael (2003). WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition. WWE Books. pp. 140–141. ISBN 0-7434-6373-0.
The Black and White seemed complete after Kevin Nash announced the New World Order's latest recruitment at the June 3 Raw: the king of WWE "Attitude," Shawn Michaels!
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|month=
ignored (help) - ^ a b Martin, Adam (2002-07-22). "WWE Raw Results - July 22, 2002". WrestleView.com. Retrieved 2008-07-17.
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{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|month=
ignored (help) - ^ McAvennie, Michael (2003). WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition. WWE Books. p. 330. ISBN 0-7434-6373-0.
{{cite book}}
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(help) - ^ Sitterson, Aubrey (2009-08-23). "Results: How DX won the war". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2009-08-24.
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The match ended when Flair locked in his Figure Four on Cade while HBK applied his modified Figure Four on Murdoch for the double tap.
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{{cite journal}}
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requires|url=
(help) - ^ "PWI Awards". 2008 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts. 29 (5): 32. 2008. 1043-7576.
{{cite journal}}
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requires|url=
(help) - ^ a b "PWI Awards". 2008 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts. 2008. 1043-7576.
References
- Assael, Shaun; Mooneyham, Mike (2002), Sex, Lies, and Headlocks: The Real Story of Vince McMahon and World Wrestling Entertainment, Crown, ISBN 1400051436
- Michaels, Shawn; Feigenbaum, Aaron (2005), Heartbreak and Triumph: The Shawn Michaels Story, WWE Books, ISBN 9780743493802
- "2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts". Wrestling’s Historical Cards. Kappa Publishing. 2007.
External links
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4a/Commons-logo.svg/30px-Commons-logo.svg.png)