The topic of who belongs on pro wrestling’s Mount Rushmore has become a clichéd debate, one that too often focuses on nominating the four top performers while ignoring the original purpose and significance of the monument.
But thanks to WWE Hall of Famer Jeff Jarrett, a new perspective on the eternal debate has emerged, perhaps providing a clearer picture of who might be the best or most dominant in sports entertainment history figure.
On his podcast, My world with Jeff Jarrett, the legendary Double J poses a question as common as debates about Mount Rushmore and the Greatest of All Time (GOAT).A fan asked Jarrett who he thought was the better wrestler between Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels and who he would choose to headline wrestling mania,if it is possible. After praising both stars, Jarrett singled out Michaels and compared him to arguably the best player in basketball.
“I said this in my Hall of Fame speech. I think Shawn is one of the Michael Jordans of professional wrestling,” Jarrett said.
The multi-generational star and promoter cited Michaels’ work against performers such as The Undertaker, and how Michaels improves the performance of those he faces, such as Jarrett, who also praised The Heartbreak Kid publicity techniques.
“When Shawn is dialed in, and I mean really dialed in, I love that he’s, yeah, a babyface when he wants to be. But Shawn is really good because he’s so good, As far as making money and making money, you tend to go ‘I want to see him get beat’.”
Widely considered the top player in basketball for his skill, competitive drive and countless accolades, Michael Jordan’s impact transcended his sport, making him a worldwide icon. His charisma and market power helped transform the NBA into a global brand, paving the way for generations of athletes to come.
Jarrett’s choice of Michaels as wrestling’s Michael Jordan is understandable, but also questionable considering Michaels’ complete summary.
Shawn Michaels was a standout performer for his time, and his in-ring work and performances, especially on the big stage at WrestleMania, were legendary. His in-ring style and desire to steal the spotlight influenced a generation of stars. One drawback of Michaels, however, has always been that he may lack the crossover appeal and marketability that made a household name like Jordan a reality.
When thinking of Michael Jordan in professional wrestling, Hulk Hogan is a name that immediately comes to mind. He played a key role in transforming professional wrestling into what it is today and paved the way for future stars. Hulk Hogan and Hulkamania were a global phenomenon that redefined the concept of ambassadors for promotions and the entire industry.
Dwayne Johnson, also known as The Rock, is another respectable candidate who still has a small audience in the genre. Like Hogan, Johnson blazed a new trail for stars like John Cena and Batista. While some may take issue with his character’s latest claims, The Rock has certainly made wrestling popular again in recent months.
As for this writer, my vote is always going to Roman Reigns, my tribal chief. While readers of this excellent site may be quick to accuse me of bias, in the words of Paul Heyman, “Just because it’s biased, doesn’t mean it’s wrong.”
A new debate may thus begin.
Tell me, Cagesiders, do you agree with Jeff Jarrett’s choice of HBK as the MJ of professional wrestling? If not, tell me in the comments section who you think is the “Air” Jordan of wrestling and why.