WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross believes Shawn Michaels‘ behaviour during his SummerSlam 1996 match with Vader ultimately derailed plans for the powerhouse to become WWF Champion.
Speaking on the Grilling JR podcast, Jim Ross reflected on the infamous bout and criticised Shawn Michaels for visibly confronting Vader during the match, calling the incident unprofessional.
“You don’t lose your cool like that,” Ross said. “Shawn had the license to lose his cool because of his influence with the office. Shawn knew that Vince was going to back him no matter what he did, and that’s what happened.”
Ross went on to argue that Michaels overstepped the mark and suggested Vader, whose real name was Leon White, showed considerable restraint.
“Shawn overplayed his hand, in my estimation. It was very unprofessional, and he’s just lucky Vader didn’t beat the sh*t out of him, because Leon could have.”
According to Ross, Vader had worked hard to earn his position in the WWF main event scene after arriving from WCW. He pointed to the former world champion’s weight loss and commitment to improving his presentation as evidence that he deserved the opportunity.
Jim Ross Said Shawn Michaels Complained About Vader’s Unwashed Ring Gear
Jim Ross also revealed that one of Shawn Michaels’ frustrations centred on Vader’s ring gear, claiming the WWE Champion had complained that it was not properly washed between events. Despite the behind-the-scenes issues, Ross believes the match itself was far better than its reputation suggests.
“The match got four stars. It could have been a five-star match if some of that childish bullsh*t had not occurred.”
Ross further claimed that the original plan called for Vader to defeat Michaels for the WWF Championship at Survivor Series 1996, before Michaels later regained the title. However, he said Michaels’ objections to working with Vader ultimately led to those plans being scrapped in favour of Sycho Sid entering the championship picture. While critical of Michaels’ actions during that period, Ross acknowledged that the WWE Hall of Famer has changed significantly over the years.
“Over the course of time Shawn has changed, and he’s not that overbearing guy that was always seemingly at the center of controversy,” Ross said.
Ross added that Michaels’ sobriety and personal growth have helped transform his reputation from one of wrestling’s most controversial stars into the respected figure he is today.
