10 'Passing The Torch' Wrestling Matches

3. Shawn Michaels Vs. Steve Austin (WrestleMania XIV)

At WrestleMania XIV, WWE made the decision to send Steve Austin's star into the stratosphere with a win over D-Generation X (and The Kliq) leader Shawn Michaels. This, not helped by a career-threatening back injury, ended Michaels' stronghold on Vince McMahon and ushered in a new star the boss could pin his hopes to.

There have been many, many stories about that night since.

Contrasting reports from Michaels, Austin, Bruce Prichard and others have debated whether or not The Undertaker coerced Shawn into doing the job. Other tales have told of HBK's bravery as he gutted out one more performance to put Austin over. Whatever the case, it worked out well for everyone in the end.

A star of the 'New Generation', who had embraced the new 'Attitude' with DX, gave way to a character fans wanted on top. It was very much out with the old and in with the new in March 1998, and Austin launched down a lucrative path towards Hall Of Fame status thanks to beating Michaels.