What JR Said To Shawn Michaels Before His WWE Return Will Amaze You
Jim Ross reveals what he told Shawn Michaels before his iconic 2002 WWE return.
Jim Ross has revealed what he once said to Shawn Michaels before the icon's WWE comeback in 2002.
On his always-insightful 'Grilling JR' podcast, the legendary announcer recalled flying out to Shawn's San Antonio home in 2001 for discussions about his future with the company - HBK had been benched with injuries since 1998, and WWE were keen to have him back.
Instead of approaching things gently, Ross met the challenge of convincing Michaels head-on and told him that he couldn't "allow [his] legacy to end this way". Explaining, JR told one of the biggest stars in industry history that he'd rubbed many the wrong way during his first WWE run.
"You have put a bad taste in people’s mouths" were the very words he used. Ooft.
Shawn was receptive, and seemed keen to set things right. He understood where Jim was coming from, and agreed that he should restore his legacy and reputation before hanging his boots up for good.
JR also told listeners that he didn't try to force Michaels back into the ring full-time. He believed that Shawn could be a valuable asset to younger talent as a trainer or in some other advisory role too.