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Retirement in wrestling is often a fleeting concept. Many iconic figures hang up their boots only to make surprise returns, either for nostalgic matches or full-time engagements with major promotions. Wrestlers like Sting and Adam "Edge" Copeland have come back after serious injuries, with Sting’s tenure in All Elite Wrestling being hailed as one of the peak periods of his career.
The wrestling landscape has evolved, and former stars now see younger talents embodying qualities reminiscent of their own past selves. Today, we’ll explore thoughts from various retired WWE Hall of Famers as they share which current wrestlers might entice them back for one last match, reflecting on the bittersweet nostalgia intertwining with their careers.
Shawn Michaels
Shawn Michaels, currently WWE’s Executive Vice President of Talent Development, is famously nicknamed "Mr. WrestleMania" for consistently delivering standout performances on the grandest stages. After his historic retirement at WrestleMania 26 in 2010, which followed a loss to The Undertaker, he remained out of the ring for eight years. However, he returned at WWE Crown Jewel 2018, reuniting with Triple H against The Undertaker and Kane. While he cherishes that experience now, he previously grappled with regrets about returning after an ideal retirement. In fact, before his 2018 comeback, he turned down an offer to face The Undertaker again at WrestleMania 30, and later declined a match against AJ Styles at WrestleMania 33. Although he has remained inactive since 2018, both Styles and The Undertaker are figures who could still tempt him back into the ring.
The Undertaker
Unlike Michaels, The Undertaker has seemingly stepped away from the ring for good after his match against Roman Reigns. In a poignant departure, he left his hat and coat in the ring, signaling the end of an era. However, his journey towards retirement was extensive, chronicled in the documentary "The Last Ride." His final match, a cinematic Boneyard Match at WrestleMania 36, served as his long-awaited send-off. Still, there’s interest in a potential showdown with current WWE star Gunther, who has expressed admiration for The Undertaker. While this match remains a dream scenario, health concerns loom large, putting its feasibility in question.
Kurt Angle
Kurt Angle’s unexpected retirement in 2019 shocked fans, especially since he had returned to the WWE just two years prior. His final match against Baron Corbin at WrestleMania 35 disappointed many, raising questions about a potential return. Angle has expressed interest in facing top talents like Seth Rollins or Roman Reigns for his dream match; however, he has highlighted former AEW champion Kenny Omega as a modern wrestling great he admires. Although a match with Omega may be improbable due to Angle’s age, the unpredictability of wrestling keeps hopes alive.
Mick Foley
Mick Foley’s wrestling career is marked by incredible resilience despite the heavy toll it took on his body. His last official match was in the 2012 Royal Rumble, and he has since hoped for one final match. Foley has considered facing modern wrestlers like Jon Moxley and Matt Cardona in a retirement match, aiming for a health transformation to make it happen. Unfortunately, he has faced medical setbacks in realizing this dream, leaving fans to speculate whether they will see him again in the ring.
Fan Take: The discussions surrounding these potential returns highlight the lasting impact of legendary wrestlers on the industry and the emotional connection fans have with them. For wrestling enthusiasts, the idea of seeing these icons one more time fuels excitement and nostalgia, reminding us that the stories and legacies of these athletes continue to evolve alongside the sport itself.
