In a revealing update on WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels’ health, longtime friend and fellow Hall of Famer Kevin Nash disclosed significant details about Michaels’ recent and upcoming medical challenges. On the latest episode of his popular “Kliq This” podcast, Nash confirmed that Michaels recently underwent a major surgery to remove “twisted” rods from his back — hardware originally inserted following the infamous 1998 casket match injury that nearly ended his wrestling career[1].

According to Nash, the rods implanted in Michaels’ spine had deteriorated and twisted over the years, causing chronic pain and complications. The surgery to extract these rods has already provided Shawn with some immediate relief, as Nash described Michaels waking up from the operation “in less pain”[1]. This procedure was crucial to address a decades-old injury that forced Michaels to retire temporarily after WrestleMania XIV, with many fans only later realizing the lasting toll that match took on his body.

But the back surgery is just the beginning of the physical hurdles Michaels faces. Nash laid bare the demanding future for his friend, revealing that Shawn Michaels will require double knee replacement surgery due to the heavy wear and tear sustained over his illustrious wrestling career[1][4]. Nash also speculated that the physical stress and long-term bowing of Michaels’ legs may lead to additional hip problems down the line. “Who’s to say, as long as they’ve been bowed like that, there’s not some hip things,” Nash said, highlighting the possibility of further orthopedic interventions ahead[1].

Shawn Michaels’ injuries are not a surprise to those familiar with his long and physically punishing in-ring career. Besides his legendary matches and high-impact style, Michaels sustained a career-threatening knee injury in 1997 which required surgery and extensive rehabilitation, as documented by multiple sources including The Sportster[5]. He famously had hardware inserted post-injury, and though he returned to compete after a few months, the wear on his knees persisted throughout his career and into retirement.

The 1998 casket match against The Undertaker — which resulted in Michaels injuring his back so severely that rods had to be inserted to stabilize his spine — has long been cited as one of the most brutal incidents in WWE history. This injury not only caused him to step away from wrestling for over a year but had lasting repercussions, as the recent surgery shows[1][3]. The removal of the rods years later indicates ongoing complications from that injury, underscoring how WWE wrestlers often endure lifelong consequences from their careers.

Sources close to Shawn Michaels and medical experts suggest that the mix of back hardware complications, double knee deterioration, and potential hip issues are all interconnected. The intense physical toll from decades inside the squared circle means Michaels is managing not just one but multiple severe health challenges simultaneously[1][3]. While Michaels has largely stayed out of the public eye regarding his health, Nash’s podcast appearance offers a rare and candid window into the veteran superstar’s condition.

WWE.com and Fightful also reported on this development and highlighted the heartfelt admiration from the wrestling community for Michaels’ resilience. Fans and past colleagues alike have expressed support, wishing him a smooth recovery and hoping that the upcoming knee surgeries will restore his mobility and reduce pain[2][3].

This update on Michaels’ health comes amid a period where many WWE legends reflect on their in-ring legacies and deal with the aftermath of grueling careers. For Shawn Michaels, his injuries are a sobering reminder of the personal cost behind his Hall of Fame status — a cost that includes years of pain, multiple surgeries, and now significant joint replacements.

What’s next for Shawn Michaels?

Sources close to the WWE icon say that Michaels will have to prepare for both extensive double knee replacement surgeries and potentially further hip examinations to prevent additional problems. Recovery from these surgeries is expected to be challenging, requiring months of physical therapy[1][4].

Kevin Nash emphasized the difficulty but also the necessity of these procedures, noting that addressing these health problems properly is critical for Michaels’ quality of life going forward. “He sacrificed a lot for the business and for the fans. Now it’s time for his body to get the care it needs,” Nash said during the podcast[1].

As one of WWE’s most iconic performers, Michaels’ ongoing health journey serves as an important reminder of the sacrifices professional wrestlers make behind the scenes. While fans celebrate the highlights and legendary matches, the toll of years competing at the highest level often manifests later with serious medical conditions.

Fans and the Wrestling Community React

The wrestling world has rallied around Michaels with messages of encouragement since news of his surgery and upcoming procedures surfaced. Social media platforms and fan forums have seen an outpouring of respect for his contributions to WWE and hopes for his swift healing.

Industry insiders also praised Michaels’ mental toughness and willingness to confront these health challenges head-on. A WWE insider told Fightful, “Shawn’s always been a fighter, and this commitment to getting the surgery and facing what’s next shows just how strong he is — inside and out.”

Kevin Nash’s detailed update on “Kliq This” provides an invaluable glimpse at the physical realities facing wrestlers, even Hall of Famers like Shawn Michaels. It underscores the importance of awareness and proper medical care for retired athletes who continue to battle aches and injuries long after their final matches[1][3].

In summary, Shawn Michaels recently underwent crucial surgery to remove twisted spinal rods from a 1998 injury and is now confronting the need for double knee replacement surgeries — with possible hip issues looming. These medical issues encapsulate the lasting physical toll of a career spent at the apex of professional wrestling. As Michaels embarks on this next chapter of recovery, fans and colleagues alike wish him strength and support.

This story remains evolving as more details about Shawn Michaels’ health develop. WWE fans are encouraged to stay tuned to official WWE.com updates, Fightful reports, and the “Kliq This” podcast for further insights.