Shawn Michaels, "The Heartbreak Kid," will be breaking the hearts of wrestling fans everywhere.
The World Wrestling Federation superstar has picked what has become the year of the wrestler to turn in his tights.
The San Antonio native likely will retire from the ring after he undergoes back surgery next Tuesday.
"It's a matter of looking at the risk vs. rewards ratio. I need to start thinking about the second part of my life," Michaels said from his North San Antonio home Tuesday afternoon. "It's time to say, 'That's a wrap.'"
Last year, Michaels, 33, received a serious back injury after he was tossed through a table during a match against The Undertaker.
Doctors told him 14 years of being body-slammed and enduring backbreakers however choreographed they might have been virtually destroyed two disks in his lower back.
"It's the most excruciating pain anyone can ever endure," Michaels said.
Doctors from the medical team that treated former New York Jets player Dennis Byrd were among those consulted by Michaels.
On Tuesday, San Antonio surgeons will try to fuse Michaels' disks back together. Michaels' doctors could not be reached for comment Tuesday evening.
Michaels who played high school football for the Randolph Ro-Hawks and whose real name is Michael Hickenbottom said he's going to continue working for the WWF.
His primary role will be "commissioner" for the wrestling organization, serving as spokesman and front man as the WWF expands its audience globally.
After spending several years toiling in minor wrestling federations, Michaels quickly rose through the ranks in the world where showmanship and charisma are rewarded with fame and fortune and marked with a championship belt.
"I've accomplished many things in the ring, including reaching the top as a world champion," Michaels said. "If I hadn't won the title, then perhaps I would still be trying to get back in the ring one way or another, but you have to start thinking about your personal life."
Michaels will continue to work with local wrestling legend Jose Lothario on a wrestling school set to open in April and continue his efforts with local charities, he said.
To explain his absence while he recovers from back surgery, Michaels was "pummeled" by WWF wrestlers on "Monday Night Raw," then tossed through a car windshield.
Michaels said he will not be part of Sunday's WWF live telecast "Sunday Night Heat" from the Freeman Coliseum.