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For many, he stands alone atop the mountain that is wrestling royalty. Of all the men and women to have stepped between the squared circle's hallowed ropes, he is widely regarded as the greatest of them all.
But, since his departure, have we really seen anyone who could possibly even come close to filling HBK's shoes? It's a tall order indeed, but here are 5 WWE Superstars who could be the next Shawn Michaels.
Neville (Honourable Mention)
Given his current situation with the WWE (and perhaps professional wrestling as a whole) it was difficult to find Neville a spot on this list, but he is undoubtedly deserving of one. The self-proclaimed 'King of the Cruiserweights' has arguably been carrying the entire division since it's inception.
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He was always the stand-out star on 205 Live and, despite a lengthy reign, deserved so much more than he was given. Right now, it looks as though having to lose to Enzo Amore was more than he could handle and who can really blame him? Only time will tell, but I hope the Newcastle man finds his way back to terms with the company that made him famous. Based on his talent, he could be doing so much more.
#1 Seth Rollins
An obvious choice, but an essential one nevertheless. Since arriving on the scene in NXT and becoming the first-ever official NXT Champion in the process, Rollins has proved time and time again that he is worthy of a headline spot in the WWE.
Even if he never scales the heights he reached at Wrestlemania 31 where he won his first WWE championship and maintained an enjoyable reign before injury reared its ugly head, he is probably the closest thing to HBK in professional wrestling. Hopefully, he gets back to the main event picture soon.
#2 Finn Balor
Another graduate of NXT with top honours, Finn Balor went through the tried-and-tested route of the independent scene (including a massively popular run in Japan), before landing in the WWE.
He used this time to master his craft, and it's paying off immensely. While he is certainly one of the most appealing superstars to watch perform, he has been monstrously underutilised by his employer since his return. Here's hoping they come to their senses soon before it's too late and get Balor back where he belongs — the top of the mountain.
#3 Tye Dillinger
Another prime example of WWE failing to take advantage of a brilliant opportunity, Tye Dillinger's 'Perfect 10' gimmick took off like a rocket during his years developing in NXT and was about as over with the fans as it possibly could be.
Not only this, but he also has the skills to back it up. If WWE knew it was good for them, they'd be throwing everything they've got at the young Canadian. He could make them millions as Michaels did.
#4 AJ Styles
An unusual choice given his age, but an essential one based on his skills and experience. AJ Styles didn't need any help when he finally arrived in WWE — he was already well established and was one of the most popular performers in wrestling.
Given that he is already a two-time WWE champion at the time of this writing, it's safe to say WWE have mounds of faith in the man they call 'The Phenomenal One.' Is he the man to take HBK's coveted spot?
#5 Kenny Omega
My top pick doesn't even belong to wrestling's flagship organisation, but that doesn't mean he's any less deserving. Arguably the best working wrestler alive today, Omega has cemented a highlight reel for the ages with his exceptional work in Japan. Even though we are mere months removed, his work with Kasuchika Okada has become the stuff of legend.
Now that he is booked to take on a WWE all-time great in Chris Jericho, perhaps the company will take notice of his unbelievable talent and sign him up the next chance they get. He is independent wrestling's top attraction and, given the right opportunities, could go on to emulate 'Mr Wrestlemania' himself.
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