"He always supported me" - SmackDown Superstar comments on relationship with Shawn Michaels (Exclusive)

Damage CTRL's Dakota Kai recently commented on her relationship with Shawn Michaels and how the latter always compared her to himself.

It's no secret that The Heartbreak Kid has worked closely with performers down in NXT for several years. Now that he's entirely in charge of the brand's creative direction, his involvement has only deepened. Several talents have spoken up about how Michaels is always around to guide and share a piece of his mind.

In a chat with Sportskeeda Wrestling's Emily Mae, Dakota Kai stated that when she was in NXT, everyone's go-to person to get advice was Shawn Michaels. The Damage CTRL member added that not only did the WWE Hall of Famer support her every step of the way, but he also saw a bit of his younger self in her.

"He's awesome. When I was in NXT, he was the guy we used to look for advice, and he had my back a lot, too. He always supported me, and he kind of compared me to him in terms of character, like a guy bumping around a crazy person. I think he saw me in him when he was younger. He's been a great support," said Dakota Kai. [5:18 - 5:39]

Check out the full video below:

Teddy Long is a big fan of Shawn Michaels' behind-scenes-work in WWE

On a recent episode of The Wrestling Time Machine, Teddy Long spoke about how Michaels has devoted himself to training the next generation of wrestlers. He also urged others in WWE to realize when their time in the ring is up and follow in The Heartbreak Kid's footsteps by imparting knowledge to younger talents.

"Shawn Michaels is absolutely fantastic, man. Take your time and deal with those guys. A lot of other guys need to follow in Shawn's footsteps. Leave it alone; you don't have to keep trying to be a star all your life. You had a great run, so go and help somebody else be successful. Help these young kids learn this business," said Teddy Long.

HBK was pissed they took his #WWENXT Women's Champions. 😭
#SmackDown #WWE #ShawnMichaels https://t.co/GTMtFCDhIL

Considering just how promising talents are rising up the ranks in NXT, it's safe to say Shawn Michaels has been doing a phenomenal job.

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