5 best storylines and appearances of Shawn Michaels after his retirement in 2010

Shawn Michaels is one of the greatest superstars to have entered the squared circle. His in-ring performance was unmatched in WWE, and his legacy will continue until doomsday.

The Heartbreak Kid stunned the world when he put his career at stake for a match against The Undertaker at WrestleMania XXVI. The two legends put on a stellar performance, and the result eventually weighed in The Phenom's favor, and Michaels was forced to retire.

Though he took a break from locking horns in matches, nothing could stop HBK from making sporadic appearances in WWE. He has also been an instrumental part of many storylines, despite being retired for a considerable time now.

On our list, we will rank the five best storylines and appearances that Shawn Michaels partook in after his retirement in 2010.

Since his retirement, which of Mr. WrestleMania's appearances have you admired the most? You are welcome to voice your opinions in the comments section below.

#5 in our list of best storylines and appearances of Shawn Michaels after his retirement in 2010 - Teaming up with Triple H against The Brothers of Destruction, 2018

Shawn Michaels supported his friend Triple H in the latter's match against The Undertaker at Super Showdown 2018. His involvement helped The Game win the contest. The Undertaker and Kane attacked DX following the bout, thus setting up the seeds of a dream tag-team match.

WWE had just begun its partnership with Saudi Arabia back then, and several legends went there to promote pro wrestling. While doing so, The Showstopper did the unthinkable and decided to participate in the dream match.

While part-time superstars like The Undertaker and Goldberg have gone to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia a few times, HBK is the only one to break his retirement to feature in the Crown Jewel premium live event.

Their match at the Crown Jewel was alright but nowhere near the expectations. Although Shawn Michaels proved to be the finest performer in the ring, fans often argue that it would have been better had he stayed retired.

#4. Surprise appearance at WrestleMania 31 and 32

Shawn Michaels, alongside his DX stablemates, assisted Triple H in his match with Sting at WrestleMania 31. The dream interaction between nWo and DX came true that day as both former rival groups made their way to the ring.

He made a similar appearance the following year as well. WrestleMania 32 featured many returning superstars and WWE legends like Snoop Dogg, The Rock, Lita, John Cena, Mick Foley, Steve Austin, and Shawn Michaels.

The latter three made a surprise appearance to beat The League of Nations and then The New Day. Though Michaels was not in the spotlight and the main focus was on Stone Cold, it was still great to see him again.

#3. Feuding with Daniel Bryan during late 2013

Shawn Michaels was selected by the fans as the special guest referee in the Daniel Bryan vs. Randy Orton match at Hell in a Cell. The Showstopper gave a Sweet Chin Music to Bryan inside the cell to avenge the latter's attack on Triple H.

It was an excellent way for HBK to show that his friendship with The Game was bigger than his duties to WWE. Michaels then also took part in the Championship ascension ceremony, where he attacked CM Punk and was wrecked by Bryan in return.

#2. Leading a coup on behalf of NXT

Shawn Michaels has been a regular promoter of NXT since its inception. He, alongside Triple H and William Regal, has always played an instrumental role in the brand's global appeal.

Michael's best appearance with NXT perhaps came when the black-and-gold brand got a place in the 2019 Survivor Series. The moment when he and Triple H led the whole brand to invade both RAW and SmackDown has been embedded in pro-wrestling history.

Moreover, the team invaded with a tank. DX did the same years ago to seize WCW, and it was great to watch them recreate the same after so many years.

#1. Special guest referee at WrestleMania XXVIII

Shawn Michaels was desperate to break The Undertaker's streak and even had to retire after failing to do so. However, he got a chance to seek revenge when he was announced as the special referee in the Undertaker vs. Triple H match at WrestleMania XXVIII.

This was easily the best appearance Michaels has made since his retirement. His presence in the cell kept fans on the edge of their seats during the entire match.

He also became physically involved after hitting Sweet Chin Music on The Undertaker. Michaels, however, eventually counted the pinfall to award the match to The Undertaker.