Shawn Michaels

It was clear early on that Shawn Michaels was something special.  As one half of the Rockers with Marty Jannetty, Michaels showed that that he was more than just a smaller athlete who would have to rely on aerial skills to succeed.   When Michaels broke out on his own, fans knew he could be a major star but it is doubtful that anyone could have imagined what was in store.  He could work against opponents of any size and style and rarely was there a card where he didn’t steal the show.  In fact that very well may have been the goal of Michaels on every appearance.  He was one of the best and he knew it and this may have led to what many had deemed an unhealthy and selfish attitude backstage.

Michaels would win the World Heavyweight Championship at Wrestlemania XII, but it was only two years later after being at the top of his game and helping to lead the new attitude of the WWF that he would be forced to retire with what looked to be a career ending back injury.  A lot changed for Michaels as with the long time away from the ring, he found God, a family and a selfless attitude in and out of the squared circle.  Michaels triumphantly returned in 2002 and amazingly was as good as he always was, yet was not the political player he once was.  He was as good a man in the ring as he was out of it and truly became the Icon in his second run.

This is one of those cases where we feel that a man retired will stay retired.  The Hall of Fame is exactly where he belongs!

Inducted in 2011 by Triple H.  Billed from San Antonio, Texas.