Mankind Debuts, Attacks Undertaker on Raw After WrestleMania XII

New WWF Champion Shawn Michaels also makes first appearance, while Marc Mero and the Bodydonnas also feature in action.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 2:04am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the Undertaker's match against Justin 'Hawk' Bradshaw and Mankind's subsequent attack, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in vibrant colors representing the chaotic action in the ring.Mankind's shocking debut and brutal attack on the Undertaker set the stage for a marquee feud that would become one of the most iconic rivalries in WWE history.San Bernardino Today

In the aftermath of WrestleMania XII, the WWE Universe was treated to a night of surprises and new beginnings on Monday Night Raw. The highly anticipated debut of the mysterious Mankind made a major impact, as he brutally attacked the Undertaker following his match with Justin 'Hawk' Bradshaw. Meanwhile, new WWF Champion Shawn Michaels addressed the crowd, and Marc Mero and the Bodydonnas were also in action.

Why it matters

Mankind's shocking debut and attack on the Undertaker set the stage for a marquee feud that would become one of the most iconic rivalries in WWE history. Shawn Michaels' first appearance as champion also hinted at potential challenges ahead, as he faced the prospect of defending his title against the likes of Jerry 'The King' Lawler and 'Big Daddy Cool' Diesel. The night also saw the arrival of Marc Mero, who brought a unique contract and style to the WWE, as well as continued action involving the Bodydonnas and their manager Sunny.

The details

Mankind made his WWE debut in a squash match against Bob 'Spark Plugg' Holly, showcasing his unhinged and violent in-ring style. Later, he ambushed the Undertaker following his match with Justin 'Hawk' Bradshaw, brutally attacking the Deadman with a flying elbow drop and the Mandible Claw. In the main event segment, new WWF Champion Shawn Michaels addressed the crowd, promising to wear the title with honor and class, while also setting his sights on upcoming challenges from Jerry Lawler and Diesel. Elsewhere, Marc Mero defeated Isaac Yankem in his debut match, while the Bodydonnas retained the Tag Team Championship in a non-title bout against Aldo Montoya and Barry Horowitz.

  • Mankind made his WWE debut on April 1, 1996, the night after WrestleMania XII.
  • Shawn Michaels won the WWF Championship at WrestleMania XII on March 31, 1996.
  • Marc Mero made his WWE debut on April 1, 1996, the night after WrestleMania XII.

The players

Mankind

A mysterious and unhinged newcomer to WWE, known for his violent and unpredictable in-ring style.

Shawn Michaels

The new WWF Champion, who addressed the crowd and set his sights on upcoming title defenses.

Marc Mero

A former WCW and ECW star who made his WWE debut, bringing a unique contract and athletic moveset to the company.

The Bodydonnas

The reigning WWF Tag Team Champions, who defended their titles in a non-title match.

Undertaker

The veteran Superstar who was brutally attacked by the debuting Mankind.

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What they’re saying

“Last night was the single greatest moment of my life, and I have these people, my Kliq, to thank for that moment. There were times last night when I didn't think there was any way in the world I could get back up, but the people picked me back up. That's something that I'll never forget.”

— Shawn Michaels, WWF Champion

“At In Your House, Diesel will be eating some Sweet Chin Music. HBK and the Kliq will dance all over his face!”

— Shawn Michaels, WWF Champion

What’s next

The judge in the Undertaker's case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Mankind out on bail following his brutal attack.

The takeaway

Mankind's shocking debut and attack on the Undertaker set the stage for a marquee feud that would become one of the most iconic rivalries in WWE history, while Shawn Michaels' first appearance as champion hinted at potential challenges ahead as he looked to defend his title against the likes of Jerry Lawler and Diesel.