Steve Austin Reflects on WrestleMania, Unfulfilled Matches, and Ongoing Physical Challenges
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Despite a recent knee replacement and nearly two decades removed from his prime, wrestling icon Steve Austin maintains he could still step back into the ring.
The “Texas Rattlesnake” recently appeared on the Insight With Chris Van Vliet podcast, offering a candid look at his physical condition, near misses with dream matches, and his enduring passion for professional wrestling. Austin recounted a frustrating experience preparing for a WrestleMania appearance with Kevin Owens in Dallas, Texas, where a lack of ring access hampered his ability to regain timing and conditioning. “They didn’t send a ring down for me to work out in to get any kind of timing or hit the ropes,” he explained. He emphasized the mental and physical toll of simply walking to the ring, noting that the crowdS energy can be overwhelming. Despite the challenges, Austin stated he was “knocking the shit out of” Owens during their encounter, lamenting that his opponent never “threw a receipt.” He expressed a desire for Owens to have experienced him at his peak, believing it would have been a truly memorable contest.
Physical Limitations and the impact of Arthritis
While confident in his ability to compete, Austin acknowledged the realities of age and injury. He revealed he underwent a knee replacement last year after years of debilitating arthritis. “I was limping around so bad, and I didn’t know I was limping,” he admitted, highlighting how chronic pain can subtly alter one’s perception. He described arthritis as a condition that “will change your personality,” emphasizing the constant search for relief. The surgery, he said, has allowed him to regain activity and a better quality of life.
The Art of the Stunner and Vince McMahon’s Resilience
Austin also shared his outlook on who took the best – and worst – of his signature Stone Cold Stunner. Without hesitation, he identified Vince McMahon as the most tough recipient. “Easily Vince [McMahon] is the worst,” he stated. He recalled numerous instances where mcmahon’s reactions were less than convincing, particularly during their WrestleMania encounter with Kevin Owens. However, he also expressed respect for McMahon’s willingness to endure the move repeatedly. he contrasted McMahon’s struggles with those of The Rock and Scott Hall, who, according to Austin, “took a good one.”
WrestleMania 40 and Prior Commitments
Despite speculation, Austin confirmed he was approached about appearing at WrestleMania 40 but ultimately declined. “Things just didn’t line up. I had other things going on,” he explained.He emphasized that his decision wasn’t a rejection of WWE, but rather a matter of prioritizing other commitments. “WWE is this multi-billion dollar corporation. I got a metal shop that we’re sitting in,” he said, illustrating the contrast between the demands of a global entertainment company and his personal pursuits. He reiterated his willingness to collaborate with WWE when the timing and circumstances are right.
Unfulfilled Dream Matches: Punk, hogan, and Goldberg
The conversation also touched on several high-profile matches that never materialized. Austin revealed that a potential match with CM Punk was discussed during the promotion of a video game, but was ultimately sidelined by his ACL and PCL surgeries. He also acknowledged the long-standing desire among fans for a showdown with Hulk Hogan, lamenting that it “just never happened.” Similarly, a match with Goldberg was pitched early in Goldberg’s WWF career, but austin believed Goldberg needed more time to establish himself. “He wasn’t at the level that he needed to be,” Austin explained, noting that Goldberg was still finding his footing after transitioning from WCW. He emphasized that timing and circumstance often play a crucial role in determining which matches come to fruition.
Austin concluded by acknowledging that while many dream matches remained unrealized, he remains grateful for the opportunities he did have and continues to enjoy his life outside the ring.
