10 Things You Learn From Watching 1993 On The WWE Network
3. Diesel Was Exactly What Shawn Michaels Needed
Shawn Michaels wrote in his autobiography that he witnessed Kevin Nash performing on WCW programming as Vinnie Vegas in the early-1990's. Feeling he'd be perfect as his bodyguard in the WWF, Michaels implored Vince McMahon to hire the big man. Once that idea was made into reality and Nash was in the same company, he morphed into Diesel and accompanied Michaels to the ring.
Starting in early-June of 1993, Diesel stood at ringside during Shawn's matches and looked menacing during his promos. Previously, Michaels had used both the Sensational Sherri and Luna Vachon as valets, but neither woman could claim the intimidation factor that Nash brought to his role.
The union was a flawless one from the start, and the pair became genuine best friends behind the scenes. By association with Michaels, Diesel became a stalwart of the WWF, a world away from floundering in the mid card pack over in WCW.
Shawn Michaels was smart to hand pick Diesel as his new manager/bodyguard, it was exactly what both men needed. For HBK specifically, it gave him a much bigger threat to shove in the faces of opponents and fans.