WRESTLING NEWS
Shawn Michaels Was Trained By This Legendary Luchador
By ELLA JAY
The future “Heart Break Kid” Shawn Michaels’ wrestling career changed forever when he was introduced to the legendary luchador “Super Sock” Jose Lothario. Known for his professional wrestling and boxing skills, Lothario agreed to train Michaels for $3000.
Lothario trained Michaels three times a week in a storage facility next to San Antonio’s Joe and Harry Freeman Coliseum, teaching him the basics of pro wrestling for several months. In his book, Michaels says that his first day with Lothario “consisted entirely of exercise and drills,” including Hindu squats and tumbling.
Michaels highly impressed the legendary luchador, who touted Michaels as a future champion, while HBK described him as “a great teacher” who “always looked out for” Michaels. He went on to impress several promoters before finally making his true mark in WWF beginning in 1988, as one-half of The Rockers, although Michaels would end this partnership soon.
Michaels rapidly ascended the WWF ladder, most notably capturing the IC title three times, before facing Bret “The Hitman” Hart at WrestleMania XII for a 60-minute Iron Match for the WWF Championship. Cheered on by his mentor Jose Lothario from the ringside, Michaels won the most prestigious title of the company, fulfilling his mentor’s prediction.