The Rock hated WWE superstar so much they were never booked to face each other and fought for real backstage instead

The Rock hated a fellow WWE Superstar so much that he was never matched with him in the ring – but still became embroiled in a backstage dust-up.

The Rock – formerly Dwayne Johnson – made his WWE debut at the Survivor Series event on November 17, 1996 and has since become a fan favourite.

Over the years, the 53-year-old has fought fellow legends such as "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, John Cena, Triple H, Hulk Hogan, Kurt Angle, and The Undertaker.

However, there is one man he has never fought, and that is the now-retired Shawn Michaels.

Despite this being a bout constantly called for by fans, it never materialised in the ring.

When asked about the supposed feud by the Mail in 2023, Michaels said: “Everyone knows the story of me being difficult, having a huge change of heart and coming back in 2002.

“I was always open to it, but it didn’t work out. He became an incredibly busy man and famous guy and everything else, and I would imagine his priorities changed quite a bit, and the things he wanted to do, I think he did, and I respect that.”

Michaels even revealed that the pair met up to clear the air.

“I for one always go back to the Hall of Fame when we did get to see each other and talk with each other and make peace,” Michaels added.

“But that’s the thing I’ve had the opportunity to do with everyone that I’ve worked with, and that’s what’s most important to me.”

And despite the pair never competing in the ring, they reportedly came to blows backstage.

Shawn Michaels is a WWE icon (Credit:Getty)

As reported by GiveMeSport, the duo fought backstage when Michaels was the special guest referee for The Rock's WWE Championship match with Triple H during the first edition of SmackDown in 1999.

The script was reportedly written for Michaels to 'Sweet Chin Music' The Rock – although the 53-year-old felt he threw the kick too hard, as a result, a backstage bust-up ensued.

The Rock's father, Rocky Johnson, opened up about the incident in 2017.

"Shawn threw the (sweet chin music) and I guess he kicked him a little too hard,” said Rocky.

“So, Dwayne went back in the dressing room and said, 'Hey man, you hit me a little too hard. Calm down.'

“But then, [Michaels] got smart with him, said, 'If you can't take it, then you shouldn't be in this business.' Next thing you know, he's on the floor and Dwayne is on top of him."