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Shawn Michaels Reveals Why He Refused To Join WWE SmackDown

2026-06-27 · Shawn Michaels · Player Focus

Shawn Michaels refused to join WWE SmackDown in 2002 due to his Bible study class.

Shawn Michaels was asked to join SmackDown, but he declined, citing his Bible study class as the reason.

This decision was important for Michaels, as he prioritized his faith over his career, even with the potential threat of a pay cut.

Shawn Michaels said, “There was a time during my career, after I went back, that they wanted me to go over to SmackDown, which is taped on Tuesday nights.”

He continued, “Which would’ve affected my wife’s bible study and mine. It just wasn’t something I was going to do.”

Michaels eventually made his way to SmackDown for a few notable matches, including his final appearance on SmackDown in a match against Rey Mysterio in January 2010.

And he finished his career with a retirement match against The Undertaker at WrestleMania 26.

But before that, Michaels had a successful second run with the company, including a reunion with D-Generation X.

So his decision to prioritize his faith did not hinder his career, as he went on to have many notable matches and wins.

Shawn Michaels' second run with the company began in 2002, after he initially retired in 1998 due to a back injury.

He returned to the company in a full-time capacity and had a successful run, including multiple championship wins.

The legend eventually retired again in 2010, but his decision to prioritize his faith over his career is a notable aspect of his story.

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