Shawn Michaels, also known as "The Heartbreak Kid," had a storied wrestling career that spanned over three decades in various promotions including WWF/WWE. Michaels made his debut in WWE in 1988 as one half of The Rockers tag team before embarking on a successful singles career. Known for his athleticism, showmanship, and charismatic persona, Michaels quickly rose to prominence and became one of the most popular and influential wrestlers of his time. He achieved multiple world championship reigns and engaged in memorable rivalries with icons such as Bret Hart, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and The Undertaker. In addition to his in-ring success, Michaels was a key player in revolutionizing the wrestling industry with his innovative and high-flying in-ring style. He was a part of iconic moments such as the first-ever Hell in a Cell match and ladder match at WrestleMania X. Despite setbacks due to injury and personal struggles, Michaels made a triumphant return to the ring in the 2000s and had a remarkable second stint that further solidified his legacy as one of the all-time greats in professional wrestling. Michaels was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2011 and continues to inspire a new generation of wrestlers with his skill, passion, and dedication to the craft.
Cody Rhodes, son of the legendary Dusty Rhodes, made his wrestling debut in 2006 under the WWE banner, where he quickly rose through the ranks with his charisma, in-ring ability, and dedication to his craft. He achieved success as both a singles competitor and as part of tag teams like Legacy and The Brotherhood. In 2016, he made the bold decision to leave WWE and venture into the independent wrestling scene, taking on various personas such as Stardust and eventually reclaiming his family name as Cody. This move allowed him to showcase his talents on a global scale, particularly with his involvement in promotions like Ring of Honor and All Elite Wrestling. In AEW, Cody emerged as a top star and one of the promotion's founding members, playing a crucial role in establishing its identity and cultivating a passionate fanbase. He has engaged in memorable feuds and matches with some of the industry's best talents, consistently delivering compelling performances that have solidified his reputation as an elite wrestler and a respected figure in the business. Cody's journey exemplifies his unwavering commitment to the art of professional wrestling, his willingness to take risks to pursue creative fulfillment, and his ability to connect with audiences in a profound way, making him a key figure in shaping the landscape of the modern industry.
Gunther, known previously as Walter, is a German wrestler who has also made a significant impact in the wrestling world. His career began in the European independent circuit before he gained global recognition for his hard-hitting style and dominant presence in the ring. Gunther is best known for his time in WWE, where he has captured multiple championships and impressed fans with his unique blend of technical skill and brute strength. His matches against some of the top talents in the industry have consistently garnered praise, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier performer in professional wrestling. Gunther's career continues to evolve, and he remains a standout competitor in the ever-changing landscape of the sport.
CM Punk, also known by his real name Phil Brooks, has left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling. Starting his career on the independent circuit in the late 1990s, Punk quickly gained a reputation for his hard-hitting in-ring style and compelling character work. His breakout came in Ring of Honor, where he showcased his skills and charisma, earning him a passionate following among wrestling fans. In 2005, Punk signed with WWE, where he would go on to become one of the promotion's most popular and successful stars. During his time in WWE, CM Punk achieved numerous accolades, including multiple championship reigns and memorable feuds with top superstars. He is perhaps best known for his record-breaking 434-day reign as WWE Champion, a feat that solidified his status as a top-tier talent in the industry. Punk's outspoken nature and willingness to push boundaries both in and out of the ring made him a controversial and captivating figure in professional wrestling. However, Punk's relationship with WWE became strained over time, as he grew disillusioned with the company's creative direction and treatment of talent. This ultimately culminated in his departure from WWE in 2014, marking the end of an era for both Punk and the promotion. Following his wrestling career, CM Punk shifted his focus to mixed martial arts, signing with the UFC in 2014. While his MMA career was met with mixed results, Punk's legacy in wrestling remains untarnished, with fans and peers alike recognizing his contributions to the industry.