“I was trying to tell them,” WWE Hall of Famer claims he prevented LA Knight from being fired on several occasions

Shawn Michaels has always openly expressed his support for LA Knight.

“I was trying to tell them,” WWE Hall of Famer claims he prevented LA Knight from being fired on several occasions

LA Knight (via Bleacher Report and WWE)

Over the years, wrestling fans have come across several names who had humble beginnings in their careers but then rose to greater heights than imagined. LA Knight is one such name that stands synonymous with this journey. However, his journey was full of perils, and WWE Hall of Famer, Shawn Michaels, recently lifted the lid on how he saved Knight from getting fired on several occasions.

During his talk with ESPN, The Heartbreak Kid mentioned how WWE had a “cut list” and LA Knight was on it on multiple occasions. Mr. WrestleMania would often cover up for The Megastar by elaborating on how he was needed for a storyline. Michaels also added the age factor that brought the 41-year-old into the higher-ups’ crosshairs.

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Additionally, the 4-time World Champion would state how his deed of protecting Knight wasn’t done through dishonest means. He’d take up the task of engaging The Megastar so he not only proves his mantle but also exudes the freshness expected from the younger talent.

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Michaels even left a slight remark on how it was someone from his age group who was adamant about the age bracket. No matter how well Knight progressed, his arrival in his forties was seen as a major impediment.

Shawn’s statement could also be an explanation for why The Megastar didn’t get his hands on NXT Gold, with the Million Dollar Championship being an exception. Despite such odds stacked against him, Knight acknowledged the situation and held his ground until he really got over with the fans.

LA Knight addresses the rumors of backstage heat in WWE

LA Knight has been one of the hottest commodities of WWE in 2023. With another major match approaching him at Royal Rumble 2024, ESPN produced an article on his ascent. In that piece, they also mentioned how Knight attracted heat from then WWE trainer Bill DeMott in his initial run in 2013–14. LA Knight would then recall his frustration over how, under his wing, he couldn’t progress like his fellow trainees did. 

LA Knight
LA Knight during his early days as a wrestler (via @YEAHRevolution/X)
I'm watching guys just start at the same time, go in, and I'm like, I'm obviously not serving myself here. So I was like, 'I'm going to go talk to him again and just be like, look, what's the deal?'
LA Knight on his backstage heat in WWE

As can be inferred, Knight was quite clear about his priorities. The Megastar looked to make his mark and felt that he was deliberately being held back. Additionally, Knight would also recall confronting DeMott in his office and how they both parted ways with a handshake. Two weeks later, Knight was released from WWE.

While the article did talk about his rocky beginnings, it also praised him for the loops he had to jump through to make it big. Knight has become one of the top babyfaces of the blue brand. Despite his unsuccessful struggle for the WWE Undisputed Universal Championship, opportunity once again has knocked on his door at Royal Rumble.

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