| Shawn Michaels | |
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| Shawn Michaels in 2022 |
Shawn Michaels (real name: Michael Shawn Hickenbottom) is a retired American professional wrestler, trainer, and on-screen personality. Known as “The Heartbreak Kid” (HBK), Michaels is widely regarded as one of the greatest in-ring performers in wrestling history.
Early Life
- Born on July 22, 1965 in Chandler, Arizona
- Raised in San Antonio, Texas
- Began training in wrestling in the early 1980s under José Lothario
Wrestling Career
- Debuted in WWE (then WWF) in 1988 as part of the tag team The Rockers with Marty Jannetty
- Gained solo fame in the early 1990s as a cocky heel with the moniker “The Heartbreak Kid”
- Known for flamboyant entrances, high-risk moves, and incredible storytelling in the ring
Key Accomplishments
- 4-time World Champion
- Intercontinental Champion (3x)
- European Champion
- Tag Team Champion (6x)
- Royal Rumble winner (1995, 1996)
- Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice:
- As a singles wrestler (2011) - As a member of D-Generation X (2019)
Notable Matches
- WrestleMania classics vs. The Undertaker, Kurt Angle, Bret Hart, and Triple H
- WrestleMania 25 and 26 matches with The Undertaker are widely considered among the best of all time
- Known as “Mr. WrestleMania” for consistently delivering iconic performances
DX and Legacy
- Co-founder of **D-Generation X** alongside Triple H during the late 1990s
- Played a central role in WWE's Attitude Era
- Known for crossing the line with edgy promos and rebellious antics
Retirement
- Retired from full-time competition in 2010 after a second loss to The Undertaker at WrestleMania 26
- Returned briefly for one final match in 2018 at Crown Jewel
Post-Retirement Roles
- Serves as senior producer and trainer in WWE’s developmental brand NXT
- Works closely with younger talent, shaping the future of WWE’s in-ring product
Personal Life
- Married to former WCW Nitro Girl Rebecca Curci
- Became a born-again Christian and has spoken openly about his past struggles and redemption
Legacy
- Universally respected for his charisma, in-ring psychology, and athleticism
- Frequently cited as the greatest in-ring performer in WWE history
- Inspired a generation of wrestlers including Seth Rollins, AJ Styles, and Dolph Ziggler