Shawn Michaels Tips NXT Star For Greatness

Shawn Michaels says the “future is bright” for one WWE rising star.

In late 2018, Shawn Michaels began working with NXT as a writer and producer, as WWE looked to cash in on his experience and wrestling knowledge.

During this period, he largely kept a low profile, but he was thrust into NXT’s top job in September 2021 after Triple H suffered a major health scare. The Heartbreak Kid has remained NXT boss ever since, earning praise for his commitment to showcasing the women’s division in particular.

While appearing on the Nightcap show with Shannon Sharpe and Ochocinco, Michaels was asked if there was anyone in NXT that reminded him of his younger self. In response, he slightly flipped the question to heap praise on Je’Von Evans.

“From an NXT standpoint, we have an unbelievable roster. Somebody who you have to keep an eye on, he’s 21 years on, his name is Je’Von Evans. He’s unbelievably dynamic. Unbelievably talented. He just turned 21.

The future is so bright for that young man. He’s going to be somebody who is going to be very big in the WWE, and, probably before long, he’ll be a flagbearer in NXT. I’m excited to see the trajectory of his career.”

Evans signed with WWE in November 2023 and made an instant impact. Since then, he’s quickly progressed up the NXT card to become a regular presence in the main event scene.

Shawn Michaels Set For Surgery

In the same interview, Shawn Michaels confirmed that he’s due to undergo double knee replacement surgery in the coming weeks. Despite the injury problems he faced during his career and the issues he faces today, even though he’s long retired, Michaels said he’s got no regrets.

The WWE legend went on to reiterate that he has no plans to return to the ring, while expressing his excitement at getting to work with so many exciting young stars in NXT.

Rumours around Michaels have kicked back into gear in recent days after it was announced that WrestleMania 34 will be held in Saudi Arabia. It was reported in the hours after the news broke that Saudi officials are looking to stack the show with WWE legends.

H/t to Fightful