Shawn Michaels reveals reason for The Undertaker’s WWE LFG absence
The Undertaker and Michelle McCool were replaced in WWE Legends & Future Greats’ third season by Kevin Owens and Natalya.
On the first episode of the season that recently aired, Shawn Michaels implied that Undertaker’s Lucha Libre AAA’s duties contributed to his absence from LFG.
The show revolves around Performance Center recruits working their way up to NXT and the main roster someday. The Undertaker served as head coach in the first two seasons, and mentored Shiloh Hill and Tyra Mae Steele. Hill transitioned to NXT in December 2025, however, Steele was among the few names released by WWE last weekend.
Owens eagerly took on the role amidst neck surgery recovery and cited that he was ‘losing his mind’ not being able to compete in the ring. His association with LFG was something he looked forward to.
He was set to face Randy Orton at WrestleMania last year but announced imminent neck surgery that omitted his participation. In July he underwent subsequent surgery. Owens was spotted training at the Performance Center towards the end of 2025 but there has been no update on his condition to return as an active competitor on the roster.
Undertaker became a major contributor to Lucha Libre AAA wrestling since WWE acquired the promotion in 2025. He has been instrumental in booking shows, mentoring talents and creative directions.
During the episode, Michaels also addressed a format change on competition for contracts. Going forward, talents from LFG could be called up to NXT which enables them with an ease in transition.
Rosanne Raphael is a wrestling writer with over three and a half years of experience covering all things related to the industry. From a kindergarten teacher to PR Associate to turning her lifelong passion for the industry into a career, Rosanne is currently writing for F4W Online where she focuses on wrestling news, analysis, and storytelling.
Rosanne previously contributed to Sportskeeda as an Assistant Content Manager.
When not consumed by wrestling, Rosanne is a musician and an aspiring artist.