4 WWE NXT Superstars who Shawn Michaels can wrestle if he comes out of retirementÂ
With NXT finding a new home on The CW Network, it's safe to assume that WWE will keep loading up the show with incredible surprises. Shawn Michaels coming out of retirement for a match or two could be one of those jaw-dropping events.
Ever since the disappointing tag-team match at WWE Crown Jewel 2018, The Heartbreak Kid has been adamant about staying retired and focusing solely on helping the stars of tomorrow. However, he recently expressed that he wished he could get back in the ring, just so he could elevate the potential-packed stars of NXT.
With that said, here are four stars on the developmental brand who can bring the two-time Royal Rumble winner out of retirement.
#4 Former WWE NXT Champion Ethan Page
After 18 years of unwavering commitment to the sport, Ethan Page has finally received his big break in WWE.
He made his NXT debut at the end of May 2024 and made an instant splash by winning the brand's top prize in barely over a month. Every week, he proves the bookers right in their decision to strap a rocket to his back. The only thing that would top his quick rise in NXT is a potential match against Shawn Michaels.
All Ego's stock as a charismatic heel will shoot for the stars if he manages to secure a short feud with The Showstopper. The electric promo exchanges and the eventual match that would surely touch on all aspects of classic in-ring storytelling would make for phenomenal TV between the two talented stars.
#3 Je'Von Evans
NXT has been receiving criticism lately for its men's main event picture not being stacked enough. After all, the roster is loaded with gifted athletes just waiting for an opportunity to make a name for themselves. Je'Von Evans is a prime example of that.
While Evans has yet to bag a defining victory, it's clear as day that WWE sees big things in his future. That has to be why he is the chosen one to face Randy Orton in The Viper's first match back on NXT in over 10 years.
So, if Shawn Michaels is considering one more outing in the squared circle, the 20-year-old sensation would be an ideal opponent for him. Earning the sheer privilege of sharing the ring with Mr. WrestleMania would remove any uncertainties surrounding Evans' potential as a future headliner.
#2 Tavion Heights
A WWE Superstars' NXT stint gives higher-ups in the company a solid idea of how much said wrestler is willing to adapt and learn. Tavion Heights has proven himself to be a brilliant student in this regard.
The No Quarter Catch Crew star was recently part of the duo that represented NXT in Pro Wrestling Noah's competitive N-1 Victory tournament. During his short run in the Japanese wrestling promotion, Heights polished his craft at an unfathomable speed, often going viral across the wrestling bubble.
Now that he's back in NXT, WWE must utilize the Olympian's newfound experience and make him a cornerstone of the brand. There's no doubt that he would be a perfect opponent for Shawn Michaels if the latter ever decides to step back into action. The duo could use Michaels/Kurt Angle from WrestleMania 21 as the blueprint to put on a technical masterclass.
#1 Nathan Frazer
WWE Universe has been quite vocal about its desire to see Shawn Michaels squaring off against Seth Rollins and AJ Styles in potential dream-match scenarios. Since neither of those bouts seems to be on the horizon, a possible Nathan Frazer vs. HBK match might capture that feeling.
Frazer's rise as one of the most consistent performers on NXT has been tremendous. His jaw-dropping aerial offense, coupled with his unrivaled speed, has often made him a highlight of Tuesday nights. As a result, he is touted as one of the stars poised to become major players in the future.
If he ends up being the WWE NXT Superstar to convince Michaels to come out of retirement, that wouldn't only guarantee an exciting bout but also speak volumes about the company's trust in the 26-year-old phenomenon.