WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels is confronting serious health challenges as he prepares for double knee replacement surgery following a recent operation to remove “twisted” rods from his back, sources reveal. The latest update on Michaels’ condition came from WWE Hall of Famer and close friend Kevin Nash during the recent episode of his “Kliq This” podcast, where he offered rare insight into the ongoing medical struggles facing the legendary performer[2][3].

Shawn Michaels, also known as the Heartbreak Kid, has long battled injuries accumulated during his decades-long wrestling career. While Michaels retired from active wrestling about 15 years ago, these past injuries continue to significantly impact his health and mobility[1]. His knees, in particular, are in critical condition.

Back Surgery: Removal of Twisted Rods After Years of Pain

Michaels recently underwent a significant surgery to extract surgically implanted rods from his back, which Nash described as “twisted.” These rods had been placed years ago to stabilize longstanding spinal issues resulting from the physical toll of professional wrestling. The procedure aimed to relieve Michaels of years of chronic pain and nerve irritation caused by the malpositioned hardware.

Wrestling News and Ringside News both reported that the complexity of the surgery was high, given the rods had been in place for years and had shifted, creating additional complications. The removal was necessary for Michaels’ overall quality of life, with hopes it would reduce discomfort and improve spinal function[2][3].

Double Knee Replacement Surgery Looming

Despite the back surgery, Michaels is now facing the need for double knee replacement surgery. For many years, Michaels suffered from severe knee damage, culminating from multiple in-ring injuries. Sources close to Michaels indicate that the deterioration in both knees has reached a point where replacement is the only viable option to restore functionality and relieve pain[2][1].

Physical therapist Kevin Wilk recently posted a photo on Instagram showing Michaels undergoing rehabilitation, visibly indicating ongoing knee issues, particularly in his left knee, which appeared swollen. Wilk praised Michaels’ perseverance and athleticism despite his physical hardships, a testament to Michaels’ enduring warrior spirit[1].

A History of Knee and Back Injuries

Michaels’ storied career has been marked by significant injuries, notably to his knees and back, which impacted his trajectory in WWE and post-retirement life. One of Michaels’ severe career-threatening knee injuries happened in 1997, which contributed to his temporary exit and affected his WWE Championship reign. At the time, doctors warned Michaels he might never wrestle again, but after consulting with renowned surgeon Dr. James Andrews, Michaels returned to the ring within months[5].

He also suffered knee damage during the Spirit Squad feud in 2006, which required surgery yet did not keep him sidelined for long. Over the years, Michaels chose to manage his injuries with various procedures, some of which involved cleaning cartilage (knee scoping), but never replaced the entire knee joint.

This accumulation of wear and previous surgeries has made replacement unavoidable now, more than a decade after his in-ring retirement[5][1].

WWE’s Support and Michaels’ Current Role

Though Michaels stepped away from active competition, he has remained heavily involved in WWE, particularly with NXT, where he is known for mentoring younger talent and acting as a creative and backstage leader. WWE.com and industry reports emphasize the company’s ongoing support during Michaels’ health battles, with wellness-focused treatments and physical therapy being standard.

Kevin Nash’s updates from “Kliq This” suggest Michaels is determined to push through these health hurdles, aiming to regain mobility sufficient for his active role backstage and in public appearances[2].

Backstage Insight and Future Outlook

According to insider sources close to the situation, Michaels’ resilience remains strong despite the physical toll. A WWE insider familiar with his recovery told Wrestling News, “Shawn has always fought through pain and setbacks. This is yet another chapter of that fight, and he’s committed to getting himself right for the long haul.”

Fightful and other wrestling news networks observe that the timing of the knee replacement surgeries will depend on Michaels’ recovery progress post-back surgery but are expected within the next few months to optimize his quality of life[2].

SEO Key Points for WWE News Fans

• Shawn Michaels requires double knee replacement surgery after decades of wear and multiple injuries sustained during his wrestling career.
• He recently had twisted rods removed from his back, a procedure to alleviate chronic pain from an old spinal injury.
• Michaels has a long history of knee injuries and surgeries, including career-threatening damage in 1997 and further deterioration over the years.
• WWE continues to support Michaels, who remains involved in NXT and backstage roles, even while managing these health issues.
• Kevin Nash provided the latest update on Michaels’ health during his “Kliq This” podcast, offering a rare insider perspective.

This ongoing health saga underscores the physical sacrifices legendary wrestlers endure and highlights the importance of proper medical care and support for retired athletes. WWE fans worldwide wish “The Heartbreak Kid” a successful recovery and continued strength.

Sources: Kevin Nash’s “Kliq This” podcast, Wrestling News, Ringside News, Sportskeeda, WWE.com, Fightful, Kevin Wilk Instagram posts[1][2][3][5].