The Rock's 10 Biggest WWE "What Ifs"
5. A Lost Opportunity
Shawn Michaels’ 2002 return to WWE is one the business’ greatest comebacks. HBK quickly proved that he had not missed a step, with great matches against foes old (HHH) and new (Jericho, Cena).
One match that never happened, though, was the exciting proposition of Michaels vs. Rock. Two standard bearers for the industry, two all time greats, a dream match that didn't come true. Rumours abound as to the reason, but the common theories surround Michaels’ historic rudeness to Rocky’s grandma Lia Maivia, and his backstage shenanigans during The Rock’s ascendency. Michaels was a reformed character in 2002, but these issues evidently ran deep.
Given the qualities of the two men, you’d have to imagine they could have put on some seriously good shows. The promo work alone would surely have been exceptional, and the athletic, hard working styles of both superstars would have surely meant a frictionless collision in the ring.
This will of course never happen now, consigned to history as a dream match that will remain a dream. It’s a shame, given the standard of the matches HBK had on his second run, but props to The Rock for sticking to his guns.