5 best career on the line matches ever in the WWE

#4 Shawn Michaels vs. “Nature Boy” Ric Flair – Wrestlemania 24

With a tear in his eye, Michaels was prepared to end the career of his idol in Ric Flair

Anyone familiar with Shawn Michaels should be equally familiar with those he has praised for their contributions to wrestling history. Former sixteen-time world champion, ‘The Nature Boy' Ric Flair has often been mentioned as one of the men that Michaels respected the most.

The dirtiest player in the game has in turn called Michaels the greatest athlete he has ever seen. And in Flair's storied career. he has certainly faced the very best in the ring.

When these two WWE Hall of Famers faced one another, we knew that having someone defeat you to end your career is as much a sign of respect as having them defeating you for a championship.

What we were treated to was a match-up of two men whose stamina far surpassed that of men barely half their age, putting on a wrestling clinic.

In the closing moments of the match, Michaels told Flair a staggered ‘I'm sorry. I love you' and proceeded to hit him with sweet chin music, Michaels then pinned Flair for a three count and victory.

As soon as the match ended, Michaels immediately clutched a defeated Ric Flair, showing continued respect for his mentor once again.