Shawn Michaels discusses mentorship of former NXT Champion Tony D'Angelo

Shawn Michaels recently addressed the criticism surrounding the NXT Championship reign of Tony D'Angelo. Speaking on "Busted Open," Michaels drew parallels between D'Angelo’s tenure and his own time as WWE Champion, citing the external pressures of roster transitions. D'Angelo held the title after winning it in April, a period Michaels described as a difficult transition for the brand. The NXT head official emphasized that D'Angelo managed the championship during a time when many other wrestlers were called up to the main roster. Michaels praised D'Angelo as a hardworking performer and suggested that historical perspective often alters the perception of a wrestler's contributions. D'Angelo’s reign concluded at Heatwave when Grayson Waller emerged victorious in a match that also included Zilla Fatu and Cruz Montana.

• 2:30 PMWrestling Inc — WWE NXT Boss Shawn Michaels Details Heartfelt Conversation Shared With Tony D'Angelo